Fluconazole (Sandoz)

What it is used for

Orally for treatment of cryptococcal meningitis in patients who are unable to tolerate amphotericin B. Note. Data suggest that the clinical efficacy of fluconazole is lower than that of amphotericin B in the treatment of the acute phase of cryptococcal meningitis. Maintenance therapy to prevent relapse of cryptococcal meningitis in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Treatment of oropharyngeal and oesophageal candidiasis in AIDS and other immunosuppressed patients. Secondary prophylaxis of oropharyngeal candidiasis in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Serious and life threatening Candida infections in patients who are unable to tolerate amphotericin B. Note. It remains to be shown that fluconazole is as effective as amphotericin B in the treatment of serious and life threatening Candida infections. Until such data are available, amphotericin B remains the drug of choice. Vaginal candidiasis, when topical therapy has failed. Treatment of extensive tinea corporis, extensive tinea cruris and extensive tinea pedis infections in immunocompetent patients in whom topical therapy is not a practical treatment option. Usually, topical therapy should be attempted first because oral therapy has a less favourable ratio of benefits to risks. (See Adverse Reactions.)