According to Dr. Dan Carothers, M.D., a physician with the American Rhinologic Society, fungal sinusitis once thought to be uncommon is now felt to be far more prevalent. Often fungal sinusitis symptoms resemble bacterial sinusitis infections. A thorough patient history and nasal swabs can help confirm diagnosis. Itraconazole is one antifungal medication used to treat fungal sinusitis.
Available Forms and Dosage
Take Itraconazole as prescribed. Itraconazole is available in capsule form, oral solution (10mg/mL), and injection (10mg/mL). Typical capsule dosage ranges from 100 milligrams to 200 milligrams per day. Therapy can be long term.
Side Effects
Itraconazole may cause gastrointestinal upset to include decreased appetitie, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Headache or dizziness may occur. Other symptoms include rash, swelling, fever or fatigue. Report severe or persistent symptoms to a physician.
Considerations
Take Itraconazole as prescribed and complete the full course of therapy. Take capsules with food to help decrease gastrointestinal complaints. Females of childbearing age should use contraception during the course of therapy and for one month following therapy.
Drug Interactions
Itraconazole interacts with many medications and can cause life-threatening cardiovascular complications. Make sure the prescribing physician knows all over-the-counter medications, herbal remedies and prescriptions being taken while on Itraconazole therapy.
Warnings
Keep follow up appointments as scheduled and obtain liver function studies as directed. Itraconazole is metabolized through the liver and can elevate liver enzymes. Use cautiously and under the direct care of a physician if a history of cardiac dysfunction or congestive heart failure exists.
References
- Fungal Sinusitis
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- Karch, A. M. (2008). 2008 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide. New York: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins
