💊 What is Itraconazole 100mg?
Itraconazole is a prescription antifungal medication used to treat a variety of fungal infections. It works by stopping the growth of fungi by interfering with their cell membrane formation. Itraconazole is commonly used for:
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Systemic fungal infections such as histoplasmosis, blastomycosis, and aspergillosis.
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Fungal nail infections (onychomycosis).
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Yeast infections of the mouth, throat, or esophagus.
🧪 Ingredients and Formulation
Each capsule contains:
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Itraconazole 100 mg (active ingredient)
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Inactive ingredients: sugar spheres, hypromellose, polyethylene glycol, titanium dioxide, and other capsule components.
Form: Gelatin capsule
Route: Oral
📋 How to Use
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Take with a full meal to enhance absorption.
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Swallow whole; do not crush or chew.
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Dosage: Depends on infection type, usually 100–200 mg daily, sometimes for weeks or months.
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Take doses at the same time daily.
Important: Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and do not skip doses, as this may lead to treatment failure or resistance.
🤒 Common Side Effects
Most side effects are mild and temporary:
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Nausea or vomiting
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Diarrhea or stomach pain
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Headache
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Dizziness
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Skin rash
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Mild liver enzyme elevation
⚠️ Serious Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
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Signs of liver damage: Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, unusual fatigue
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Heart failure symptoms: Shortness of breath, swelling in the legs, fast heartbeat
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Severe allergic reactions: Swelling, itching, difficulty breathing
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Hearing loss (rare but reversible)
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Peripheral neuropathy (numbness or tingling in hands/feet)
📊 Monitoring & Follow-Up
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Liver function tests (LFTs) before and during treatment
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Cardiac evaluation in patients with heart disease history
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Drug interaction review: Itraconazole affects CYP3A4, so inform your doctor about all medications
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
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Not for use in patients with congestive heart failure (black box warning)
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Pregnancy Category C – Use only if clearly needed
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Avoid alcohol to reduce liver risk
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May cause dizziness—avoid driving or operating machinery if affected
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Do not take with antacids or proton pump inhibitors within 2 hours of dose
Drug Interactions: Avoid co-use with drugs like:
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Quinidine, dofetilide (risk of arrhythmia)
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Statins (risk of rhabdomyolysis)
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Rifampin, phenytoin (reduce effectiveness)
📝 Summary
Itraconazole 100mg is an effective antifungal used to manage serious and stubborn fungal infections. While generally well-tolerated, it carries risks that require regular monitoring, especially liver function and potential cardiac issues. Always follow your healthcare provider’s directions and report any side effects promptly. Due to significant drug interactions, a full medication review is essential before starting therapy.
Note: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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