IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

FLUCONAZOLE - ORAL (flew-CON-uh-zole)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Diflucan

USES: This medication is an antifungal agent used to treat infections in certain areas of the body caused by yeast and yeast-like organisms.

HOW TO USE: This medication works best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by taking the medication at evenly spaced intervals. Take as directed since different conditions require different methods of use. This drug is usually taken once daily. Another dosing method involves taking the drug for one week per month until treatment is completed. Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow the yeast to continue to grow resulting in a relapse of the infection.

SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause stomach upset, loss of appetite, altered taste, diarrhea, nausea, headache or dizziness during the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or become severe, inform your doctor. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, any drug allergies. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Fluconazole is excreted into breast milk. The manufacturer of this drug recommends it not be used while breast-feeding. Consult your doctor before you breast-feed.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: astemizole, cisapride, cimetidine, oral contraceptives, cyclosporine, oral antidiabetic drugs, hydrochlorothiazide, phenytoin, rifampin, rifabutin, certain benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam, triazolam), tacrolimus, terfenadine, theophylline, warfarin, zidovudine. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include hallucinations and changes in behavior.

NOTES: This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection or give it to someone else. A different medicine may be needed.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, take the scheduled dose only. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.