Fluconazole Flashcards
What class of drug is fluconazole?
Triazole antifungal
What is the mechanism of action of fluconazole?
It depletes ergosterol, which is a key component of the fungal cell wall. This alters the fluidity of the cell wall, and inhibits fungal cell replication.
What are the indications for fluconazole?
Candidal balanitis
Vaginal candidiasis
Mucosal candidiasis
Dermatological fungal infections
Systemic fungal infections
Prevention of fungal infections in immunocompromised patients
What are the common side effects of fluconazole?
GI disturbance
Headache
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
What are the important side effects of fluconazole?
Hepatotoxicity
Paraesthesia/ peripheral neuropathy
Severe cutaneous reactions
What are the cautions for fluconazole?
Patients with QT prolongation
Renal and hepatic impairment
Avoid in pregnancy
What are the contraindications to fluconazole?
Acute porphyrias
What does fluconazole interact with?
Calcium channel blockers - can precipitate heart failure
Warfarin - increased anticoagulant effect
Sulfonylureas - increased plasma concentration of sulfonylurea
Colchicine - increased risk of colchicine toxicity
Statins - increased risk of myopathy
What monitoring should patients on fluconazole have?
Monitor LFTs with high doses or extended courses (or if patient is taking other hepatotoxic drugs)
What information should patients taking fluconazole be given?
Patients should be advised to use reliable contraception while completing their course
Patients should take the full prescribed course of medication
Patients should be made aware of the signs and symptoms of liver disorder
