Fluconazole

Infections

Also known as Diflucan

Fluconazole is an antifungal — it fights yeast and fungal infections, not bacteria. For a vaginal yeast infection it's often a single dose; for thrush or other fungal infections it may be a short course. The catch: fluconazole interacts with a long list of other medications, from statins to blood thinners, so have your pharmacist check everything you take before you start.

How to take it

When

Often just one dose, or a short course — take it exactly as prescribed.

Food

Works with or without food.

Avoid

Many drug interactions — ask your pharmacist to check it against everything else you take, including supplements.

Good to know

For a yeast infection, symptoms may take a day or two to fully settle after the dose — that's normal.

Missed a dose?

If you're on a multi-day course and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never take a double dose.

Common side effects

Headache
Nausea or stomach pain
Diarrhea
Dizziness

Call a doctor if

Trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or hives — serious allergic reaction. Get emergency help now.
Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe fatigue, or pain in the upper right belly — possible liver trouble. Stop and call your doctor right away.
A spreading rash or blistering, peeling skin — get medical help now.
Fainting or a racing, irregular heartbeat — this drug can rarely affect heart rhythm. Get help now.

Educational only. This summary is drawn from public FDA labeling and MedlinePlus and simplified for readability. Your prescription label and your pharmacist always come first — doses and instructions vary from person to person.