Diflucan, also known as flucanazole, is an important antifungal agent that belongs to the triazole subclass of synthetic drugs. This is an orally-administered medication that is being extensively used in the treatment of fungal and yeast infections that are usually hard to get rid off.
Cell membranes or cell walls are extremely vital for the survival of fungi and yeast. Cell wall prevents the entry of unwanted of substances into the cells and also prevents the contents inside the cells from leaking out. Flucanazole destroys the disease causing fungi and yeast by disrupting the structure of this cell membrane. It blocks the production of a substance called ergosterol that results in the formation of holes in the cell membrane of the fungal and yeast cells.
Diflucan is used in the treatment of infections caused by Candida and Cryptococcus species of fungi. Some of the diseases where this antifungal agent has been very effective include athlete’s foot, ring worm, jock itch, infection by Pityriasis versicolor, candidiasis in the linings of the mouth, throat, lung or urinary tract, systemic candidiasis, vaginitis, candidal balanitis and cryptococcal meningitis. It is also used to prevent fungal and yeast infections in people with a weakened immune system resulting due to chemotherapy, radiotherapy or bone marrow transplants.
The drug is available in the form of oral tablets, oral suspension and intravenous injections. Depending on the severity of the disease, the medicine is administered by physicians in any of these forms. However, one should never use this drug without consulting a physician. Some of the side effects of this medicine include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, rash, seizures, hair loss and liver disorders. People can also suffer from severe allergic reactions. Apart from these, doctors should never prescribe Diflucan to patients who are already being administered with drugs such as cisapride and terfenadine. Administration of the medicine is also not advised in pregnant or breastfeeding women.
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