From the Research
It's generally recommended to avoid taking Xanax (alprazolam) for at least 24 hours after taking a single 150mg dose of Diflucan (fluconazole) for a yeast infection, as this combination may lead to increased Xanax levels in the bloodstream due to Diflucan's inhibitory effect on certain liver enzymes responsible for metabolizing Xanax 1.
Key Considerations
- Diflucan is an antifungal medication that can cause enhanced sedative effects when combined with Xanax, including excessive drowsiness, impaired coordination, and potentially dangerous respiratory depression.
- The inhibitory effect of Diflucan on liver enzymes can persist for about a day after taking the antifungal medication.
- If you regularly take Xanax for anxiety or another condition, consult your healthcare provider before taking Diflucan, as they may recommend temporarily adjusting your Xanax dosage rather than completely stopping it 2.
- Always inform all your healthcare providers about all medications you're taking to avoid potentially harmful drug interactions.
Mechanisms and Interactions
- Benzodiazepines, such as Xanax, are widely prescribed for their depressant effect on the central nervous system (CNS) and can quickly diffuse through the blood-brain barrier to affect the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA 2.
- Diflucan's antifungal activity is fungistatic, and long-term treatment may lead to the development of fluconazole resistance in C. albicans 1.
- Combining fluconazole with other drugs that target different pathways may enhance its antifungal effect and make it fungicidal 1.
Clinical Implications
- Regular use of benzodiazepines can cause severe, harmful psychological and physical dependence, leading to withdrawal symptoms similar to those of alcohol withdrawal 2.
- Careful tapering of the medication is required when prescribed, and alternative methods of treating benzodiazepine withdrawal are being explored 2.
- Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential interactions between Diflucan and Xanax and take necessary precautions to minimize adverse effects.