• Advertisement

Archive for the ‘azole antifungals’ Category

Vfend

Posted by admin on November 2nd, 2009

VFEND

Generic Name: voriconazole (vor i KON a zole)

What is VFEND?

VFEND (voriconazole) is an azole antifungal medication. It works by blocking fungal cell wall growth, resulting in the death of the fungus.

VFEND is used to treat infections caused by yeast or other types of fungus. It may also be used to treat patients with serious fungal infections who cannot tolerate other types of treatment.

VFEND may also be used for other purposes not listed here.

Important information about VFEND

Do not use VFEND without your doctor’s consent if you are pregnant. It could cause harm to the unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.

There are many other medicines that can cause serious or life-threatening drug interactions with VFEND. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use.

Before taking VFEND, tell your doctor if you have heart rhythm problems, an electrolyte imbalance, liver or kidney disease, or a history of allergy to other antifungal medications such as fluconazole (Diflucan), ketoconazole (Nizoral), or itraconazole (Sporanox).

Use this medicine for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated.

VFEND can cause problems with your vision. If you use this medicine for more than 28 days, you may need to have your eyes checked.

Before taking VFEND

Do not take VFEND if you are allergic to voriconazole, or if you are taking any of the following drugs:

quinidine (Cardioquin, Quinora, Quinidex, Quinaglute, Quin-Release, Quin-G);

sirolimus (Rapamune);

carbamazepine (Tegretol);

pimozide (Orap);

phenobarbital;

ritonavir (Norvir);

efavirenz (Sustiva);

rifabutin (Mycobutin) or rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane, Rifater);

an ergot medicine such as ergotamine (Ergomar, Cafergot, Ercaf, Wigraine, others) or dihydroergotamine (D.H.E., Migranal); or

(these drugs are no longer available in the U.S.) terfenadine (Seldane) or astemizole (Hismanal).

The drugs listed above can cause dangerous serious or life-threatening drug interactions with VFEND. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are using.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use VFEND:

heart rhythm problems;

a metabolic disorder such as high or low levels of calcium, potassium, or magnesium;

a history of allergy to other antifungal medications such as fluconazole (Diflucan), ketoconazole (Nizoral), or itraconazole (Sporanox).

VFEND tablets contain lactose. Before taking a VFEND tablet, tell your doctor if you have a hereditary form of galactose intolerance, Lapp lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption.

FDA pregnancy category D. This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use VFEND without your doctor’s consent if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication. It is not known if voriconazole passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use VFEND without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take VFEND?

Take VFEND exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Take VFEND at least one hour before or after eating a meal. Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. To be sure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one. Do not mix the oral suspension with any other medicine or liquid. Take VFEND for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated.

To be sure VFEND is helping your condition, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your kidney or liver function may also need to be tested. Visit your doctor regularly.

VFEND can cause problems with your vision. If you use this medicine for more than 28 days, you may need to have your eyes checked.

Store the tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Store the oral liquid at room temperature for up to 14 days. Throw away any unused liquid after 14 days.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medication as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and use the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include vision problems, excessive mouth watering, enlarged pupils, weakness, loss of balance, shortness of breath, or seizure (convulsions).

What should I avoid while taking VFEND?

VFEND may cause changes in vision including blurred vision and sensitivity to light. Wear sunglasses during the day to protect your eyes from bright light. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to have clear vision. Avoid exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays (sunlamps or tanning beds). VFEND can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunburn may result. Use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.

VFEND side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to VFEND: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

sudden behavior changes, problems with thinking or speech;

stomach pain, loss of appetite, dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);

urinating less than usual or not at all;

fever, sore throat, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash; or

uneven heart rate, chest pain, general ill feeling.

Less serious VFEND side effects may include:

vision problems such as blurred vision, eyes being more sensitive to light;

fever;

mild nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;

headache; or

swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect VFEND?

Many drugs can interact with VFEND. Below is just a partial list. Tell your doctor if you are using:

phenytoin (Dilantin);

cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral);

tacrolimus (Prograf);

warfarin (Coumadin);

stomach acid reducers such as esomeprazole (Nexium), omeprazole (Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid), or pantoprazole (Protonix);

tranquilizers or sedatives such as alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), midazolam (Versed), triazolam (Halcion), and others;

cholesterol-lowering medicines such as atorvastatin (Lipitor), lovastatin (Mevacor), pravastatin (Pravachol), or simvastatin (Zocor);

vinblastine (Velban), vincristine (Oncovin), or vinorelbine (Navelbine);

a calcium channel blocker such as verapamil (Isoptin, Verelan, Calan, Covera), amlodipine (Norvasc), felodipine (Plendil), isradipine (DynaCirc), nicardipine (Cardene), nifedipine (Adalat, Procardia), nimodipine (Nimotop), or nisoldipine (Sular); or

an oral diabetes medicine such as glipizide (Glucotrol), glyburide (DiaBeta, Micronase), tolbutamide (Orinase), tolazamide (Tolinase), or chlorpropamide (Diabinese).

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with VFEND. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Posted in azole antifungals Tags: , No Comments »

Sporanox PulsePak

Posted by admin on November 2nd, 2009

Sporanox PulsePak

Sporanox PulsePak should not be used to treat certain fungal infections (onychomycosis) in patients with heart problems (eg, history of congestive heart failure). Contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms of congestive heart failure such as swelling of the hands, ankles, feet, or abdomen; bloating; shortness of breath; fast or irregular heartbeat; severe or persistent nausea; or confusion.

Use of Sporanox PulsePak along with certain other medicines may increase your risk of serious and sometimes fatal heart problems, including irregular heartbeat. Do not take Sporanox PulsePak if you are also taking cisapride, pimozide, quinidine, dofetilide, or levacetylmethadol (levomethadyl).

Sporanox PulsePak is used for:

Treating fungal infections. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Sporanox PulsePak is an azole antifungal. It kills sensitive fungi by interfering with the formation of the fungal cell membrane.

Do NOT use Sporanox PulsePak if:

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Before using Sporanox PulsePak :

Some medical conditions may interact with Sporanox PulsePak . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Sporanox PulsePak . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Sporanox PulsePak may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.

How to use Sporanox PulsePak :

Use Sporanox PulsePak as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Sporanox PulsePak .

Important safety information:

Possible side effects of Sporanox PulsePak :

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects.

Diarrhea; dizziness; gas; headache; nausea; stomach pain or upset; stuffy nose.

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); bloating; chest pain; confusion; dark urine; diarrhea; depression; fast or irregular heartbeat; fever; loss of appetite; numbness or tingling of the hands or feet; pale stools; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; severe or persistent nausea; shortness of breath; sudden weight gain; swelling of the hands, ankles, or feet; swollen or tender abdomen; unusual tiredness or fatigue; vomiting; yellowing of the skin or eyes.

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions or need medical advice about side effects, contact your doctor or health care provider. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 (1-800-332-1088) or at

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center (

Store Sporanox PulsePak at room temperature, between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Sporanox PulsePak out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information:

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Sporanox PulsePak . If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

More Sporanox PulsePak resources

Posted in azole antifungals Tags: , No Comments »

Noxafil

Posted by admin on November 2nd, 2009

Noxafil

Generic Name: posaconazole (poe sa KONE a zole)

What is Noxafil?

Noxafil (posaconazole) is an antifungal medication that fights certain infections caused by fungus.

Noxafil is used to prevent fungal infections in people with weak immune systems resulting from chemotherapy or stem cell transplantation.

Noxafil may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information about Noxafil

Do not use Noxafil if you are allergic to posaconazole, or if you are using any of the following drugs:

halofantrine (Halfan);

pimozide (Orap);

quinidine (Cardioquin, Quinidex, Quinaglute); or

ergot medicine such as methysergide (Sansert), ergotamine (Ergomar, Ergostat, Cafergot, Ercaf, Wigraine), dihydroergotamine (D.H.E. 45, Migranal Nasal Spray), ergonovine (Ergotrate), methylergonovine (Methergine).

Take Noxafil for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Noxafil will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu. Call your doctor if you have ongoing vomiting or diarrhea. Noxafil may not work as well while during this time.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Noxafil?

Do not use Noxafil if you are allergic to posaconazole, or if you are using any of the following drugs:

halofantrine (Halfan);

pimozide (Orap);

quinidine (Cardioquin, Quinidex, Quinaglute); or

sirolimus (Rapamune) or tacrolimus (Prograf);

ergot medicine such as ergotamine (Ergomar), dihydroergotamine (D.H.E. 45, Migranal Nasal Spray), ergonovine (Ergotrate), or methylergonovine (Methergine);

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take Noxafil:

a personal or family history of “Long QT syndrome”;

a history of allergy to antifungals such as fluconazole (Diflucan), itraconazole (Sporanox), ketoconazole (Nizoral), or voriconazole (Vfend);

liver disease; or

a heart rhythm disorder.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Noxafil is harmful to an unborn baby. Before you take this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether posaconazole passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give Noxafil to a child younger than 13 years old.

How should I take Noxafil?

Take Noxafil exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Noxafil works best if you take it within 20 minutes after a full meal or a nutritional supplement (such as Ensure). Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. To be sure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one. Call your doctor if you have ongoing vomiting or diarrhea. Noxafil may not work as well while during this time.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood will need to be tested on a regular basis. Your liver function may also need to be tested. Do not miss any scheduled visits to your doctor.

Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Noxafil will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu. Store Noxafil at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Symptoms of a Noxafil overdose are not known.

What should I avoid while taking Noxafil?

Follow your doctor’s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Noxafil side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Noxafil: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;

fever, chills, cough, body aches, flu symptoms;

slow, fast, or pounding heartbeats;

feeling light-headed, fainting;

numbness or tingly feeling around your mouth, fast or slow heart rate, muscle tightness or contraction, overactive reflexes;

confusion, uneven heart rate, extreme thirst, increased urination, leg discomfort, muscle weakness or limp feeling;

swelling of your ankles or feet;

nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); or

dangerously high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, buzzing in your ears, anxiety, chest pain, shortness of breath, uneven heartbeats, seizure).

Less serious Noxafil side effects may include:

mild headache, tired feeling;

joint or muscle pain;

sleep problems (insomnia);

mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or stomach pain; or

skin rash.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Noxafil?

Many drugs can interact with Noxafil. Below is just a partial list. Tell your doctor if you are using:

arsenic trioxide (Trisenox);

cimetidine (Tagamet);

cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune, Gengraf);

digoxin (digitalis, Lanoxin);

droperidol (Inapsine);

esomeprazole (Nexium);

midazolam (Versed);

phenytoin (Dilantin);

an antibiotic such as clarithromycin (Biaxin), erythromycin (E.E.S., EryPed, Ery-Tab, Erythrocin), levofloxacin (Levaquin), moxifloxacin (Avelox), pentamidine (NebuPent, Pentam), or rifabutin (Mycobutin);

an antidepressant;

anti-malaria medications;

a calcium channel blocker such as amlodipine (Norvasc), diltiazem (Tiazac, Cartia, Cardizem), nicardipine (Cardene), nifedipine (Procardia, Adalat), verapamil (Calan, Covera, Isoptin, Verelan), or others;

cancer medicines such as vinblastine (Velban) or vincristine (Oncovin, Vincasar), vindesine (Eldisine), or vinorelbine (Navelbine);

cholesterol-lowering medicines such as simvastatin (Zocor);

heart rhythm medication;

HIV medication such as atazanavir (Reyataz), efavirenz (Sustiva), or ritonavir (Norvir, Kaletra);

medicine to prevent or treat nausea and vomiting, such as metoclopramide (Reglan) or ondansetron (Zofran);

medicines to treat psychiatric disorders;

migraine headache medicine such as sumatriptan (Imitrex) or zolmitriptan (Zomig); or

narcotic medication.

This list is not complete and there are many other medicines that can interact with Noxafil. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you.

Posted in azole antifungals Tags: , No Comments »

Nizoral

Posted by admin on November 2nd, 2009

Nizoral

Nizoral has been shown to cause serious and sometimes fatal liver problems. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms of liver toxicity such as unusual fatigue, yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, pale stools, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, vomiting, or severe or persistent nausea. Your doctor will perform liver function tests before you begin taking Nizoral and periodically during treatment.

Use of Nizoral along with certain other medicines may increase your risk of serious and sometimes fatal heart problems, including irregular heartbeat. Do not take Nizoral if you are also taking astemizole, cisapride, or terfenadine.

Nizoral is used for:

Treating fungal infections. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Nizoral is an azole antifungal. It kills sensitive fungi by interfering with the formation of the fungal cell membrane.

Do NOT use Nizoral if:

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Before using Nizoral :

Some medical conditions may interact with Nizoral . Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Nizoral . Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Nizoral may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.

How to use Nizoral :

Use Nizoral as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Nizoral .

Important safety information:

Possible side effects of Nizoral :

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects.

Nausea; stomach pain or upset.

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); bloating; dark urine; decreased sexual ability; depression; irregular heartbeat; fever, chills, or persistent sore throat; loss of appetite; numbness or tingling of the hands or feet; pale stools; severe or persistent nausea or stomach pain; swollen or tender abdomen; thoughts of suicide; unusual bruising or bleeding; unusual tiredness or fatigue; vision changes; vomiting; yellowing of the skin or eyes.

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects at

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center (

Store Nizoral between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Nizoral out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information:

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Nizoral . If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

More Nizoral resources

Compare Nizoral with other medications for the treatment of:

Posted in azole antifungals Tags: , No Comments »

Mycelex Troche

Posted by admin on November 2nd, 2009

Mycelex

Generic Name: clotrimazole topical (kloe TRIM a zole)

What is Mycelex (clotrimazole topical)?

Clotrimazole topical is an antifungal medication. Clotrimazole topical prevents fungus from growing on your skin.

Clotrimazole topical is used to treat skin infections such as athlete’s foot, jock itch, ringworm, and yeast infections.

Clotrimazole topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Mycelex (clotrimazole topical)?

Use this medication for the full amount of time prescribed by your doctor or as recommended in the package even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely healed.

Do not use bandages or dressings that do not allow air to circulate to the affected area (occlusive dressings) unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Wear loose-fitting clothing (preferably cotton).

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Who should not use Mycelex (clotrimazole topical)?

Do not use clotrimazole topical if you have had an allergic reaction to it in the past.

Clotrimazole topical is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not use clotrimazole topical without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known whether clotrimazole passes into breast milk. Do not use clotrimazole topical without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use Mycelex (clotrimazole topical)?

Use clotrimazole topical exactly as directed by your doctor or follow the directions that accompany the package. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Wash your hands before and after using this medication, unless you are using it to treat a hand infection.

Clean and dry the affected area. Apply a small amount of the cream (usually twice daily) for 2 to 4 weeks.

Do not take this medication by mouth.

If the infection does not clear up in 4 weeks, or if it appears to get worse, see your doctor.

Use this medication for the full amount of time prescribed by your doctor or as recommended in the package even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely healed.

Do not use bandages or dressings that do not allow air circulation over the affected area (occlusive dressings) unless otherwise directed by your doctor. A light cotton-gauze dressing may be used to protect clothing.

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Store clotrimazole topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the dose you missed and apply only the regular amount of clotrimazole topical. Do not use a double dose unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of clotrimazole topical is unlikely to occur. If you do suspect that a much larger than normal dose has been used, or that clotrimazole topical has been ingested, contact an emergency room or a poison control center.

What should I avoid while using Mycelex (clotrimazole topical)?

Avoid wearing tight-fitting, synthetic clothing that doesn’t allow air circulation. Wear clothing made of loose cotton and other natural fibers until the infection is healed.

Mycelex (clotrimazole topical) side effects

Serious side effects of clotrimazole topical use are not expected. Stop using clotrimazole topical and see your doctor if you experience unusual or severe blistering, itching, redness, peeling, dryness, swelling, or irritation of the skin.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Mycelex (clotrimazole topical)?

Avoid using other topicals at the same time unless your doctor approves. Other skin medications may affect the absorption or effectiveness of clotrimazole topical.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with clotrimazole topical. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking or using any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Posted in azole antifungals Tags: , No Comments »

Sporanox

Posted by admin on November 2nd, 2009

Sporanox

Generic Name: itraconazole (IT ra KON a zole)

What is Sporanox?

Sporanox is an azole antifungal medicine. It kills sensitive fungi by interfering with the formation of the fungal cell membrane.

Sporanox is used to treat three types of serious fungal infections (blastomycosis, histoplasmosis, and aspergillosi) which can invade any part of the body including the lungs, mouth or throat, toenails, or fingernails.

Sporanox may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Important information about Sporanox

Do not take Sporanox if you are allergic to itraconazole or similar medications such as fluconazole (Diflucan) or ketoconazole (Nizoral), if you have ever had congestive heart failure, or if you are pregnant or may become pregnant during treatment.

You should not take Sporanox together with cisapride (Propulsid), dihydroergotamine (D.H.E. 45, Migranal), dofetilide (Tikosyn), ergonovine (Ergotrate), ergotamine (Ergomar), lovastatin (Altocor, Altoprev, Mevacor), methylergonovine (Methergine), midazolam (Versed), nisoldipine (Sular), pimozide (Orap), quinidine (Quinaglute, Quinidex, Quin-Release), simvastatin (Zocor), or triazolam (Halcion).

Other drugs that should not be taken together with Sporanox include astemizole (Hismanal), or levomethadyl Orlaam) (these drugs are no longer available in the U.S.).

There are many other medicines that can interact with Sporanox. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list with you of all the medicines you use and show this list to any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you.

Before taking Sporanox, tell your doctor if you have heart disease, a history of stroke, a heart rhythm disorder, kidney or liver disease, a breathing disorder, cystic fibrosis, or a history of “Long QT syndrome.”

Sporanox capsules should not be used in place of Sporanox oral solution (liquid) if that is what your doctor has prescribed. Make sure you have received the correct type of this medication at the pharmacy and ask the pharmacist if you have any questions. Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve.

Before taking Sporanox

Do not take Sporanox if you are allergic to itraconazole or similar medications such as fluconazole (Diflucan) or ketoconazole (Nizoral), if you have ever had congestive heart failure, or if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant during treatment. The following drugs should not be taken together with Sporanox:

cisapride (Propulsid);

dofetilide (Tikosyn);

nisoldipine (Sular);

pimozide (Orap);

quinidine (Quinaglute, Quinidex, Quin-Release);

lovastatin (Altocor, Altoprev, Mevacor) or simvastatin (Zocor);

midazolam (Versed) or triazolam (Halcion);

ergot medicines such as dihydroedrgotamine (D.H.E. 45, Migranal), ergonovine (Ergotrate), ergotamine (Ergomar, Cafergot, Ercaf, Migergot), or methylergonovine (Methergine); or

(these drugs are no longer available in the U.S.) astemizole (Hismanal), or levomethadyl Orlaam).

If you have any of the following conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take Sporanox:

heart disease, a heart rhythm disorder, circulation problems, or a history of stroke;

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or other breathing disorder;

kidney disease;

liver disease;

cystic fibrosis; or

a personal or family history of “Long QT syndrome.”

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Sporanox is harmful to an unborn baby. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Itraconazole passes into breast milk and can harm a nursing baby. Do not use Sporanox without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Sporanox?

Take Sporanox exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

The Sporanox capsule should be taken after a full meal. Take Sporanox oral solution (liquid) on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Swish the liquid in your mouth for several seconds before swallowing it.

Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Sporanox capsules should not be used in place of Sporanox oral solution (liquid) if that is what your doctor has prescribed. Make sure you have received the correct type of this medication at the pharmacy and ask the pharmacist if you have any questions. Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your liver function may need to be checked with blood tests on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Store Sporanox at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Symptoms of an Sporanox overdose are not known.

What should I avoid while taking Sporanox?

Avoid taking antacids or stomach acid reducers (Tagamet, Pepcid, Axid, Zantac, and others) within 1 hour before or 2 hours after you take Sporanox. These medications can make it harder for your body to absorb Sporanox.

Sporanox side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction tp Sporanox: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

fever;

feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion;

swelling, rapid weight gain;

problems with hearing;

numbness or tingly feeling;

pain or burning when you urinate; or

nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, weakness, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Less serious Sporanox side effects may include:

diarrhea, constipation, mild stomach pain;

mild itching or skin rash;

headache, dizziness; or

runny nose or other cold symptoms.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Sporanox?

Many drugs can interact with Sporanox. Below is just a partial list. Tell your doctor if you are using:

a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin);

cancer medications;

cholesterol medications such as atorvastatin (Lipitor);

cyclosporine (Gengraf, Sandimmune, Neoral);

diabetes medication you take by mouth;

digoxin (digitalis, Lanoxin);

disopyramide (Norpace);

fentanyl (Actiq, Duragesic);

isoniazid (for treating tuberculosis);

rifabutin (Mycobutin), rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane, Rifater, Rifamate), or rifapentine (Priftin);

sirolimus (Rapamune) or tacrolimus (Prograf);

an antibiotic such as clarithromycin (Biaxin), erythromycin (E.E.S., E-Mycin, Ery-Tab, Erythrocin), telithromycin (Ketek) or troleandomycin (Tao);

an antifungal medication such as clotrimazole (Mycelex Troche), ketoconazole (Nizoral), or voriconazole (Vfend);

an antidepressant such as nefazodone, paroxetine (Paxil), or sertraline (Zoloft);

a barbiturate such as amobarbital (Amytal), butabarbital (Butisol), mephobarbital (Mebaral), secobarbital (Seconal), or phenobarbital (Solfoton);

heart or blood pressure medications such as amlodipine (Norvasc), diltiazem (Tiazac, Cartia, Cardizem), felodipine (Plendil), nifedipine (Procardia, Adalat), verapamil (Calan, Covera, Isoptin, Verelan), and others;

HIV/AIDS medicine such as atazanavir (Reyataz), delavirdine (Rescriptor), efavirenz (Sustiva), etravirine (Intelence), indinavir (Crixivan), nelfinavir (Viracept), nevirapine (Viramune), saquinavir (Invirase, Fortovase), or ritonavir (Norvir);

a sedative such as alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium); or

seizure medication such as carbamazepine (Carbatrol, Tegretol), felbamate (Felbatol), oxcarbazepine (Trileptal), or phenytoin (Dilantin), or primidone (Mysoline).

Posted in azole antifungals Tags: , No Comments »

Diflucan

Posted by admin on November 2nd, 2009

Diflucan

Generic Name: fluconazole (floo KOE na zole)

What is Diflucan?

Diflucan (fluconazole ) is an antifungal antibiotic.

Diflucan is used to treat infections caused by fungus, which can invade any part of the body including the mouth, throat, esophagus, lungs, bladder, genital area, and the blood.

Diflucan is also used to prevent fungal infection in people with weak immune systems caused by cancer treatment, bone marrow transplant, or diseases such as AIDS.

What is the most important information I should know about Diflucan?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to Diflucan, or similar drugs such as clotrimazole (Lotrimin), econazole (Spectazole), ketoconazole (Nizoral), miconazole (Monistat), sertaconazole (Ertaczo), sulconazole (Exelderm), terconazole (Terazol), tioconazole (Vagistat-1), or voriconazole (Vfend). Do not use Diflucan if you are also taking cisapride (Propulsid) or terfenadine (Seldane).

Before taking Diflucan, tell your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, a heart rhythm disorder, or a history of “Long QT syndrome.

Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Diflucan will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Diflucan?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to Diflucan, or similar drugs such as clotrimazole (Lotrimin), econazole (Spectazole), ketoconazole (Nizoral), miconazole (Monistat), sertaconazole (Ertaczo), sulconazole (Exelderm), terconazole (Terazol), tioconazole (Vagistat-1), or voriconazole (Vfend). Do not use Diflucan if you are also taking cisapride (Propulsid).

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take Diflucan

liver disease;

kidney disease;

a heart rhythm disorder; or

a personal or family history of “Long QT syndrome.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take Diflucan.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Diflucan is harmful to an unborn baby. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Diflucan can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Diflucan?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Your dose will depend on the infection you are treating. Vaginal infections are often treated with only one pill. For other infections, your first dose may be a double dose. Carefully follow your doctors instructions. Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve.

Take this medicine with a full glass of water. Shake the oral suspension (liquid) well just before you measure a dose. To be sure you get the correct dose, measure the liquid with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Diflucan will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.

Store the tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat. You may store liquid Diflucan in a refrigerator, but do not allow it to freeze. Throw away any leftover liquid medicine that is more than 2 weeks old.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Symptoms of a Diflucan overdose may include confusion or unusual thoughts or behavior.

What should I avoid while taking Diflucan?

Follow your doctor’s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while you are using Diflucan.

What are the possible side effects of Diflucan?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);

fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;

severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash;

easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness; or

seizure (convulsions).

Less serious Diflucan side effects may include:

mild nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or upset stomach;

headache;

dizziness;

unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth; or

skin rash or itching.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Diflucan?

Before taking Diflucan, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs:

a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin);

cyclosporine (Gengraf, Sandimmune, Neoral);

an oral diabetes medicine such as glipizide (Glucotrol), glyburide (Diabeta, Micronase, Glynase), tolbutamide (Orinase), tolazamide (Tolinase), chlorpropamide (Diabinese), and others;

rifabutin (Mycobutin) or rifampin (Rifadin, Rifater, Rifamate, Rimactane);

a sedative such as diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), alprazolam (Xanax), or midazolam (Versed);

seizure medication such as phenytoin (Dilantin) or valproic acid (Depakene);

tacrolimus ((Prograf); or

theophylline (Theo-Dur, Theolair, Theochron, Elixophyllin, Slo-Phyllin, others).

If you are using any of these drugs, you may not be able to use Diflucan, or you may need dosage adjustments or special tests during treatment.

There may be other drugs not listed that can affect Diflucan. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

Posted in azole antifungals Tags: , No Comments »
Free T-Mobile phones on sale | Thanks to Best Savings Accounts, Conveyancing Fees and Used Cars