Fluconazole (diflucan)?

Fluconazole (brand example: Diflucan) is an antifungal medication used to treat a range of fungal infections. What would you like to know—uses, dosing, side effects, interactions, or safety?

Here are the basics:

What it’s used for

Common indications include:

• Vaginal yeast infection (vulvovaginal candidiasis)
• Oral thrush (candida in the mouth)
• Esophageal candidiasis
• Systemic yeast infections (e.g., candidemia, depending on severity)
• Cryptococcal meningitis (typically higher-level regimens under specialist care)
• Some cases of tinea (ringworm) or other fungal infections (depending on organism/site)

How it’s taken

• Often once daily, sometimes one-time dose for uncomplicated vaginal yeast infections.
• It’s available as tablets/capsules and liquid (and IV in some settings).
• Exact dose depends on the type of infection, severity, and kidney function.

Common side effects

• Nausea, stomach upset
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Rash (less common)

Important warnings / interactions

Fluconazole can interact with other medications. Notable ones:

• Warfarin (can increase bleeding risk)
• Certain diabetes meds (e.g., sulfonylureas like glipizide/glimepiride—can lower sugars too much)
• Some heart rhythm drugs (QT prolongation risk)
• Benzodiazepines and other drugs metabolized by CYP enzymes (may increase levels)
• It can affect liver function—seek care if you develop yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, severe fatigue, or persistent vomiting

Also:

• Use caution if you have liver disease or significant kidney impairment (dose adjustment may be needed).
• Avoid/monitor carefully in pregnancy depending on dose and indication (single low-dose is different from high-dose prolonged therapy).

When to seek urgent care

• Severe allergic reaction signs: swelling of face/lips, trouble breathing, widespread hives
• Severe dizziness/fainting, palpitations (heart rhythm concern)
• Signs of liver injury (as above)

If you tell me:

1. what infection you’re treating (e.g., yeast infection, thrush, etc.),
2. your age/sex (and whether pregnant),
3. the dose you have (e.g., 150 mg single dose vs other), and
4. any other meds you take,
   …I can help with more specific guidance (including typical dosing ranges and key interactions).