Fluconazole – Effective antifungal for thrush and yeast infections.
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What is Fluconazole?
Fluconazole is a highly effective antifungal medication that’s particularly valuable for treating thrush and other yeast infections. Its convenience as a single-dose treatment for vaginal thrush has made it one of the most commonly prescribed antifungals.
Book an online consultation if you’re experiencing symptoms of thrush such as itching, burning, or unusual discharge, or if you have recurrent fungal infections. Our GPs can assess your symptoms and determine if Fluconazole or other antifungal treatments are appropriate for your specific condition.
What is Fluconazole used for?
- Vaginal thrush (candidiasis)
- Oral thrush
- Male genital thrush
- Skin and nail fungal infections
- Systemic candida infections
- Prevention of fungal infections in immunocompromised patients
- Cryptococcal meningitis (severe cases)
How does Fluconazole work?
An antifungal medication that inhibits ergosterol synthesis in fungal cell membranes, disrupting cell membrane integrity and causing fungal cell death.
Dosage and Administration
Adults
Vaginal thrush: 150mg single dose. Oral thrush: 50mg daily for 7-14 days. Severe infections: higher doses as prescribed.
Children
Dose calculated based on weight—specialist supervision usually required.
Important Notes
- Can be taken with or without food.
- Single dose for vaginal thrush is usually sufficient.
- For recurring infections, longer courses may be needed.
- Complete the full course even if symptoms improve.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Nausea and stomach upset
- Headache
- Diarrhoea
- Skin rash
- Abdominal pain
- Dizziness
Serious Side Effects
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe allergic reactions
- Liver problems (rare but serious)
- Heart rhythm changes (QT prolongation)
- Severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
- Blood disorders (rare)
Important Warnings
- Tell your GP if you have liver or kidney problems—dose adjustment may be needed.
- May interact with many medications—inform your GP of all medicines you take.
- Stop and contact GP if you develop yellowing of skin/eyes (jaundice).
- May affect heart rhythm in people with existing heart conditions.
- Not suitable during pregnancy except under specialist supervision.
Drug Interactions
Tell your GP if you're taking any of the following medications:
- Warfarin—significantly increases bleeding risk.
- Phenytoin—may increase phenytoin levels.
- Ciclosporin—may increase ciclosporin levels and kidney toxicity.
- Statins—increased risk of muscle problems.
- Certain heart medications—may affect heart rhythm.
- Oral contraceptives—may reduce contraceptive effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly does Fluconazole work for thrush?
For vaginal thrush, symptoms usually improve within 24-48 hours of the single dose. Complete relief typically occurs within 3-7 days.
Can I take Fluconazole if I'm pregnant?
Single doses for thrush are generally considered safe in pregnancy, but higher doses require specialist assessment. Always consult your GP or midwife first.
Why do I keep getting thrush despite treatment?
Recurrent thrush may indicate diabetes, immunosuppression, or antibiotic use. Your GP may need to investigate underlying causes and consider longer treatment.
Can men take Fluconazole for genital thrush?
Yes, men can develop genital thrush, especially if their partner has it. The same single 150mg dose is usually effective.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: 2025-01-14