Fluconazole, an antifungal antibiotic, is used to treat various fungal infections. Taken as an oral tablet, it is an effective ally for battling fungal infections that occur anywhere on the body, including your mouth, throat, genital area and bladder. Fluconazole is also accompanied by unwanted side effects; most are harmless, but some may have serious health repercussions.
Common Side Effects
Some side effects of fluconazole are referred to as being less severe, as they do not pose a health risk to the patient. These include gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and upset stomach. You may also experience headaches, dizziness, a skin rash and changes in taste, along with indigestion and heartburn.
What You Should Report
Fluconazole may produce side effects that should be reported to your doctor without haste. These include an irregular heartbeat; flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills or body aches; a skin rash that blisters or peels; a general feeling of weakness, and bruising or bleeding easily. Seizures may also occur and these, along with the aforementioned, may be life-threatening if not promptly reported and treated.
Risk of Liver Damage
Liver damage is another serious side effect of fluconazole, and its symptoms need to be reported immediately to your doctor. These signs include a yellowing of the skin and eyes that is accompanied by darkened urine, lighter-color stools and severe upper abdominal pain in the right side. Upon reporting these symptoms, your doctor may perform a blood test that will show if your liver enzymes are elevated, another sign of liver damage.
Additional Words of Warning
Fluconazole should not be taken by those who are allergic to drugs that are similar to it. This includes drugs such as clotrimazole, ketoconazole, tioconazole, econazole and sulconazole. This may result in an allergic reaction to fluconazole that can be life-threatening. Signs of an allergic reaction include swelling of the lips, throat, mouth or face; hives; an unexplained rash; incessant itching, and difficulty breathing or swallowing. If you experience these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention.
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