Diflucan is a clinically proven medication for fungal infections. The capsules are used to treat fungal infections in the body. Under normal conditions, many types of fungus live in our bodies at different locations, such as mucous membranes, inside the mouth and internal organs. Sometimes, however, they can cause different symptoms. Fungal infections range from harmless skin fungal infections to more serious diseases such as bronchi or brain diseases.
In this article, however, we focus especially on nail fungus. This condition is common on the toenails of middle aged males. The disease is rare in children. In additon, nail fungus on hand nails is less common. Most of the patients with toenail fungus have it also at the uppermost toe intervals and even on the soles of their feet. Nail fungus is usually caused by Trichophyton rubrum which is a dermatophytic fungus.
What’s on this page?
What kind of skin fungal infections exist?
The most common types of fungal infections are various infections on the skin, also known as ringworms. These conditions are very common, and most people suffer from them at least once in their life. In general, an infection occurs when the skin comes into contact with a previously foreign fungus type. Although fungal infections are not dangerous, they are usually unpleasant and have mild symptoms. Ringworms are also generally very easily spreadable.
Most common, fungal infection on the skin occurs in the legs, hands, groin, stomach and back. The most well-known forms are nail fungus, diaper rash, nail fungus, athelete’s foot, ringworms and oral thrush. The most common fungal infection among women is vaginal yeast infection which is caused by Candida albicans.
Treatment option – Diflucan
The active ingredient in Diflucan is fluconazole. It works by destroying the fungal cells and stopping the growth of the fungus. Diflucan is suitable for the treatment of various types of fungal infections in the body.
Your doctor may prescribe it for the following conditions:
- Skin fungal infections (feet, skin, groin, nails)
- Genital yeast infections on both, men and women
- Oral thrush
- Candida fungus, Infection in internal organs or urinary tract infections caused by Candida fungus
- More severe fungal infections, such as cryptococci-induced inflammation of the cortex and bronchial coxidioidomycosis
Diflucine may also be used to prevent fungal infections, for example in situations where the immune response is impaired or the risk of infection is high.
This medicine is also suitable for children. Always discuss the use of the medicine with your doctor.
Instructions for use
Diflucan is effective and easy to use. Always follow the dosage and instructions you received from your doctor.
Diflucan is available in 50 mg, 100 mg and 150 mg tablets. The tablets are taken orally with water on either an empty stomach or with food. The correct dosage depends on the type of fungal infection to be treated.
- Skin and nail infections (foot, nails, groin): 50 mg once daily, 150 mg once weekly or 300-400 mg once weekly for one to four weeks depending on the infection
- In the case of foot fungus, the treatment may take up to 6 weeks
- In the case of a nail fungus, the treatment is continued for as long as the nail has regrown
- In the case of oral thrush: 50-400 mg once a day for 7-30 days
- In the case of genital thrush, one-time treatment in a form of a pill
Diflucan is also used to prevent the recurrence of infections. Observe the instructions given by the doctor as a preventive care. Children’s dosage is different from the one of adults and depends on the type of infection.
Discuss the usage of Diflucan with your doctor if you have any of the following:
- If you suffer from other conditions or are on other medication
- If you have liver or kidney problems or heart disease
- If you have lactose intolerance (the medicine contains lactose)
Diflucan and pregnancies
If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, consult your doctor before using Diflucan. It should not be used during pregnancy unless specifically instructed by the doctor.
Side effects
Side effects from Diflucan are rare and, in most cases, very mild.
The most common side effects are:
- Diarrhoea
- Stomach ache
- Nausea
- Headache
In rare cases, liver disorders may occur, the symptoms of which include fatigue, vomiting and yellow skin. Similarly, in rare cases, allergic reactions may occur, but severe reactions are very rare. Symptoms include wheezing, swelling of the face and eyes, severe skin rashes and itching. If you have issues with your liver or allergic reactions, contact your doctor immediately.
When should I see a doctor?
Skin fungal infections are difficult to fully protect yourself from and they can easily transfer from another. However, their treatment is easy and the symptoms are mild, though often unpleasant.
It is advisable to seek the help of a doctor if the diagnosis is uncertain or the medicine has not been helpful for the symptoms.