FLUZOLE
Fluzole (Fluconazole) a synthetic antifungal agent of the imidazole class, is used to treat vaginal candidiasis. It inhibits the fungal lanosterol 14 alpha-demethylase which thereby prevents the formation of ergosterol which is an essential component in the fungal cell membrane.
Fluconazole is used to treat oropharyngeal candidiasis and cryptococcal meningitis in AIDS.
Presentation
Blister pack of 5×4’s Capsules
Description
Indications
It is used in prevention and systemic treatment of fungal infections namely Cryptococcal meningitis, Candidal balanitis, oropharyngeal and esophageal candidiasis. It is also used in the treatment of vaginal candidiasis, acute or recurrent.
Pharmacological class
Antifungal
Pharmacological properties
Fungistatic
Mechanism of action
The antifungal activity of fluconazole results from the reduction of ergosterol synthesis by inhibition of fungal cytochrome P450enzymes
Side effects
Rash, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, flatulence, yellowing of eyes or skin and dark urine, anorexia, fatigue and constipation.
Contra indications
Fluconazole is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to fluconazole or to relate azole compounds or to any of the ingredients in the formulation. Fluconazole should not be co-administered with cisapride or terfenadine, it is also contra indicated in pregnancy and lactation.
Drug interactions
The drug should not be used with the following medication because of serious interactions may occur. Co-administration of multiple doses of hydrochlorothiazide may increase the plasma concentrations of fluconazole. Concomitant administration with rifampicin reduces the blood concentration of fluconazole. Terfenadine and cisapride can cause serious cardiac problem (contraindicated) and hence not recommended to be taken with fluconazole. Fluconazole may increase the concentration of warfarin in blood by reducing the metabolism of warfarin. Fluconazole when co-administered with phenytoin, cyclosporine, zidovudin, theophylline, sulphonylureas (tolbutamide, glyburide and glipizide), benzodiazepines (triazolam, alprazolam and midazolam) may increase the plasma concentration of these drugs. Fluconazole decreases the effectiveness of oral contraceptives.
