Fluconazole 200 Mg

What Is Fluconazole 200 mg?

Fluconazole is a triazole antifungal medication designed to treat a variety of fungal and yeast infections. At a 200 mg dosage, it’s commonly prescribed as a single-dose therapy for vaginal candidiasis (yeast infection) and as part of multi-day regimens for more severe or systemic fungal infections.

How Fluconazole Works

Fluconazole works by inhibiting the enzyme lanosterol 14α-demethylase in fungal cells. This prevents the conversion of lanosterol to ergosterol, a critical component of the fungal cell membrane. Without ergosterol, the cell membrane becomes weak and leaky, causing the fungus to die.

Key Indications

• Vaginal Candidiasis: Often a single 200 mg dose clears vulvovaginal yeast infections.

• Oropharyngeal and Esophageal Candidiasis: Typically 200 mg on the first day, then 100 – 200 mg daily for 7–14 days.

• Cryptococcal Meningitis: Loading dose of 400 mg, followed by 200 – 400 mg daily for several weeks.

• Prophylaxis in Immunocompromised Patients: Prevents fungal infections in cancer or transplant patients.

Recommended Dosage

• Uncomplicated Vaginal Yeast Infection: Single 200 mg oral tablet.

• Mild-to-Moderate Infections: 100 – 200 mg once daily; duration depends on severity (7–14 days).

• Severe/Systemic Infections: 400 mg loading dose, then 200 – 400 mg daily for extended periods under medical supervision.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions. Do not self-adjust dosage or duration.

Administration Tips

• Take Fluconazole with or without food.

• Swallow the tablet whole with water.

• Maintain adequate hydration to support clearance of the drug.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects (≤10% of patients) include:

• Headache

• Nausea or abdominal discomfort

• Diarrhea

• Dizziness

• Taste disturbances

Serious but rare side effects:

• Hepatotoxicity (liver enzyme elevations)

• Severe skin reactions (Stevens–Johnson syndrome)

• QT prolongation (heart rhythm changes)

• Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)

Report any rash, yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, or unusual fatigue to your doctor immediately.

Precautions and Drug Interactions

• Liver Disease: Use with caution; monitor liver enzymes regularly.

• QT Prolongation Risk: Avoid in patients with arrhythmias or taking other QT‑prolonging drugs.

• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Consult your physician—consider risk vs. benefit.

• Drug Interactions: Fluconazole inhibits CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4 enzymes. Notable interactions include warfarin, phenytoin, rifampin, and certain statins. Always disclose all medications, supplements, and herbal products to your healthcare provider.

When to Seek Medical Advice

• No improvement after 3 days of treatment for vaginal yeast infection.

• Symptoms worsen or new symptoms emerge.

• Any signs of allergic reaction or severe side effects.

Conclusion

Fluconazole 200 mg is a versatile, effective antifungal option for both common and serious fungal infections. By adhering to prescribed dosages, monitoring for side effects, and discussing drug interactions, you can ensure safe and successful treatment. Always consult your healthcare professional with any questions or concerns about your antifungal therapy.