Itraconazole

Generic Name : Itraconazole

TradeName : CANDITRAL, ITASPOR, SPORANOX

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : It is an antifungal drug and is meant for oral use. It is very effective in a wide range of superficail and deep seated fungal infections.

When it is to be taken : Dermatophytoses, Tinea versicolor, onychomycoses, oropharyngeal candidiasis, vulvovaginal candidiasis, cutaneous candidiasis, chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis, oculomycoses, systemic mycoses, subcutaneous mycoses. It is also used in prophylaxis against opportunistic mycoses in HIV infected patients and those on immunosuppresant therapy.

How it should be taken : Dosage: Alternative in systemic infections: 200 mg once daily increased in invasive or disseminated disease and in cryptococcal meningitis to 200mg twice daily.

Special Instruction :
Hypersensitivity, Co-administration of Terfenadine or Astemizole with Itraconazole is contraindicated.

Side Effects :
Nausea,vomiting, skin rash, dizziness, depression, paraesthesias,vertigo, pedal oedema and loss of libido.

Other Precautions :
Hepatic impairment.Safety and efficacy in children has not been established. Pregnancy: Contraindicated. Lactation: Contraindicated. Elders: Not recommended.

Storage Conditions :
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.