Itraconazole

What is this medication for?

Itraconazole is used to treat fungal infections. 

How should I take or use this medication?

• Do not stop taking your medication without checking with your healthcare professional.
• Itraconazole should be taken immediately after a full meal. Capsules should be swallowed whole.
• Complete the course as prescribed by the doctor.

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication
  You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
  • Effective contraception is recommended for any woman who is taking itraconazole, and who could potentially become pregnant during treatment and for 2 months following the end of treatment.
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.
  • There are potential interactions between itraconazole and other medications:
    • The amount or levels of of digoxin, midazolam and cyclosporine in the blood may be increased when taken with itraconazole.
    • There is a risk of muscle weakness if combined with cholesterol lowering drugs such as simvastatin or atorvastatin.
    • Medications such as phenytoin and rifampicin can decrease the blood level of itraconazole, making them less effective.

What are some common side effects of this medication? ​

Some side effects of these medications include: 

• Nausea, vomiting, stomach upset
  • Take the medication with food to relieve these effects.
• Diarrhoea
• Headache
  • If it is mild, you may continue taking the medication and the symptoms may improve over time.
  • If the headache is severe, stop the medication and consult your doctor.

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately? 

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following: 

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

See a doctor immediately or go to the hospital if you have any of the following symptoms, such as: 

• Abnormal or fast heartbeat
• Burning, numbness or abnormal tingling feeling
• Muscle cramps or spasms
• Muscle pain or weakness
• Dark urine or light coloured stools
• Nausea and vomiting that does not go away
• Loss of appetite
• Stomach pain
• Yellowing of eyes or skin
• Very bad headache or dizziness
• Feeling confused or weak
• Light-headness or feeling like passing out
• Change in eyesight
• Hearing changes such as ringing in the ears or hearing loss
• Chest pain
• High fever or chills 
   

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?

Avoid alcoholic drinks while you are taking this medication.

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children.

How do I throw away this medication safely? ​

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.