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Itraconazole - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Itraconazole

Generic Name : Itraconazole
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Itraconazole are provided here.

Pronunciation : i- tra –ko- na- zole

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Itraconazole, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


ICD Code : Y40.7 Therapeutic Classification : Antifungals

Trade Names/Brand Names of Itraconazole

India :

International :


Sporanox

Why is Itraconazole Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an antifungal agent, prescribed for treating fungal infections. Itraconazole is indicated for treating onychomycosis of the toenail caused by the fungus named Trichophyton rubrum or T. mentagrophytes.

When should Itraconazole not be taken? (Contraindications)

• Patients with heart failure
• Pregnancy
• Allergy to Itraconazole
• Along with certain medications like cisapride, dofetilide, ergot alkaloids, statins, methadone, oral midazolam, nisoldipine, pimozide etc.

What is the dosage of Itraconazole?

The recommended dose is 200 mg (one tablet) once daily for 12 consecutive weeks for treating Onychomycosis of the toenail. It should be taken with a full meal at the same time each day.

How should Itraconazole be taken?

It comes as a capsule to take by mouth, on an empty stomach.

What are the warnings and precautions for Itraconazole?

• Avoid excess dose of itraconazole

• Patients with heart failure, leg swelling, hearing loss, neuropathy and lung edema should be extremely cautious while taking Itraconazole.

• Itraconazole may cause dizziness. So, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

• It may affect blood sugar level; monitor sugar level regularly while taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Itraconazole?

Gastrointestinal - Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and loss appetite.
Body as a Whole - Fluid retention, fatigue, fever and uneasiness.
Skin - Rash and itching.
Central Nervous System - Headache, dizziness, decreased sexual activity and drowsiness.
Heart - High blood pressure.
Metabolic - Decrease in potassium level.
Genitourinary - Impotence.
Liver - Abnormal liver function.
Respiratory- Difficulty in breathing.

What are the other precautions for Itraconazole?

Caution should be exercised in patients with:
1. A history of HIV infection, weakened immune system
2. Kidney problems
3. Liver problems
4. Irregular heartbeat
5. Elderly, children

What are the Drug Interactions of Itraconazole?

Do not take Itraconazole with Antiarrhythmics, Anticonvulsants, Anti-HIV Agent, Antimycobacterials, Antineoplastics, Antipsychotics, Benzodiazepines, Calcium Channel Blockers, Gastric Acid Suppressors/Neutralizers, Gastrointestinal Motility Agents, HMG CoA-Reductase Inhibitors, Macrolide Antibiotics, Oral Hypoglycemic Agents, Polyenes, Opiate Analgesics

What are the storage conditions for Itraconazole?

Store it at room temperature and in an airtight container.
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