Itraconazole
Indications
Itraconazole is used to treat fungal infections, including ringworm of the body, groin, feet and hands (tinea), pityriasis versicolor, fungal nail infections, thrush of the mouth or vagina, and fungal infections of the eye. It is also used under specialist care for serious internal fungal infections such as aspergillosis and histoplasmosis.
How It Works
Itraconazole is a triazole antifungal. It blocks the making of ergosterol, an essential part of the fungal cell membrane, so the fungus cannot grow and dies.
Dosage and Administration
The dose and length of treatment depend on the infection; take it exactly as prescribed. Common adult examples: vaginal thrush, 200 mg twice in one day; pityriasis versicolor, 200 mg once a day for 7 days; ringworm of the body or groin, 100 mg once a day for 15 days or 200 mg once a day for 7 days. Nail infections are usually treated with "pulse" courses (one week of treatment each month for several months), and serious infections with doses set by a specialist. Capsules should be taken straight after a full meal and swallowed whole. Oral solution is taken on an empty stomach. Children: as prescribed.
Interactions
Itraconazole interacts with many medicines; always tell the doctor and pharmacist everything you take.
- It must not be taken with Simvastatin, Lovastatin, oral Midazolam, Triazolam, Ergotamine, Domperidone, Quinidine, Dofetilide, Dronedarone and some other heart medicines, because it raises their levels to dangerous amounts.
- It can raise levels of Warfarin, Ciclosporin, Tacrolimus, some calcium-channel blockers, Colchicine and some cancer and HIV medicines.
- Rifampicin, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin and Phenobarbital reduce its effect.
- Antacids, Omeprazole and similar acid-lowering medicines reduce absorption of the capsules; take antacids at least 2 hours apart.
Contraindications
Allergy to itraconazole or other azole antifungals; heart failure or a history of it (for nail and skin infections); pregnancy (for nail and skin infections); and use with the medicines listed above.
Side Effects
Common: nausea, stomach pain, indigestion, diarrhoea, headache and rash.
Get urgent medical help for: yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools or long-lasting loss of appetite and vomiting (possible liver problems); breathlessness, swollen ankles or sudden weight gain (possible heart failure); a severe rash with blisters or peeling; swelling of the face or throat; numbness or tingling in the hands or feet; or hearing loss.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use in pregnancy unless the doctor decides it is needed for a serious, life-threatening infection. Women who could become pregnant should use effective contraception during treatment and until their next period after finishing. It passes into breast milk; avoid breastfeeding unless the doctor advises otherwise.
Precautions and Warnings
- Tell the doctor about liver disease, heart disease, kidney problems or hearing problems.
- Liver tests may be needed during longer courses.
- Complete the full course; nail infections take months to clear as the nail grows out.
- It may cause dizziness or blurred vision; do not drive if affected.
Overdose
There is no specific antidote. Seek medical help straight away and take the medicine pack with you.
Therapeutic Class
Triazole antifungal.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Itraconazole