What is an example of a fluconazole (Diflucan) prescription for a vaginal candidiasis (yeast infection)?

From the Guidelines

A typical fluconazole prescription for a vaginal yeast infection would be a single 150 mg oral tablet taken as a one-time dose. For uncomplicated cases, this single dose is usually sufficient to clear the infection. For more severe or recurrent infections, the regimen might be extended to 150 mg taken every 72 hours for three doses (days 1,4, and 7) 1. Fluconazole works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes, thereby disrupting membrane function and inhibiting fungal growth. Patients should take the medication with or without food and should expect improvement within 1-3 days, though complete symptom resolution may take up to a week. During treatment, patients should avoid alcohol as it may increase side effects like nausea or headache. If symptoms persist after completing the prescribed course, patients should follow up with their healthcare provider as this could indicate either a resistant strain of yeast or a different underlying condition requiring alternative treatment.

Some key points to consider when prescribing fluconazole for vaginal yeast infections include:

• The medication is effective against most species of Candida, but may not be effective against C. krusei or C. glabrata 1.
• Patients with recurrent infections may require a longer course of treatment or maintenance therapy to prevent future episodes 1.
• Fluconazole can interact with other medications, such as warfarin and phenytoin, and patients should be advised to inform their healthcare provider of any other medications they are taking 1.

Overall, fluconazole is a safe and effective treatment for vaginal yeast infections, and can be prescribed with confidence in most cases. However, it is essential to follow up with patients to ensure that the infection has been fully cleared and to address any potential complications or side effects.

From the FDA Drug Label

Fluconazole tablets are a prescription medicine used to treat vaginal yeast infections caused by a yeast called Candida. Fluconazole tablet helps stop too much yeast from growing in the vagina so the yeast infection goes away Fluconazole tablets are different from other treatments for vaginal yeast infections because it is a tablet taken by mouth.

The typical script for fluconazole for a yeast infection is a single oral dose of fluconazole.

• The dosage is not explicitly stated in the provided drug labels, but it is commonly known to be 150mg.
• Key points to consider when prescribing fluconazole for a yeast infection include:
  • The patient should not be taking certain medications, such as quinidine, erythromycin, or pimozide.
  • The patient should not be allergic to fluconazole or any of its ingredients.
  • The patient should be informed of the potential risks and benefits of taking fluconazole, including the risk of QT prolongation and torsade de pointes.
  • The patient should be monitored for adverse reactions, particularly if they are taking other medications that may interact with fluconazole 2.

From the Research

Fluconazole Script for Yeast Infection

• The typical dosage of fluconazole for the treatment of vaginal candidiasis is a single oral dose of 150 mg 3, 4, 5.
• This dosage has been shown to be effective in eradicating Candida species from the vagina and relieving symptoms in patients with vaginal candidiasis 3, 4, 5.
• The use of fluconazole for the treatment of vaginal candidiasis has been compared to other antifungal agents, such as clotrimazole and itraconazole, and has been found to be a valid and promising therapy for curing acute signs and symptoms of vulvovaginal candidiasis 3, 4, 5.
• Fluconazole is generally well tolerated, with few and minor side effects reported in clinical trials 3, 4, 5.

Efficacy of Fluconazole

• Studies have shown that fluconazole is effective in treating vaginal candidiasis, with clinical and mycological cure rates ranging from 72% to 93% 3, 4, 5.
• Fluconazole has also been shown to relieve symptoms more rapidly than other antifungal agents, such as clotrimazole 3.
• The efficacy of fluconazole has been compared to other antifungal agents, such as itraconazole, and has been found to be similar or superior in some cases 4, 6.

Safety and Tolerability

• Fluconazole is generally well tolerated, with few and minor side effects reported in clinical trials 3, 4, 5.
• The most common side effects of fluconazole include nausea, headache, and abdominal pain 4, 5.
• Fluconazole has been shown to be safe and effective in patients with impaired immunity, including those with HIV/AIDS 6.