Fluconazole

Fluconazole 100 mg

The generic name for Diflucan, Fluconazole is a great way to get rid of a fungal infection, inhibiting the formation of the fungal cell wall, thereby resulting in cell death and the death of the organism. Working against infections under the nails, ringworm, blastomycosis, or cryptococcosis, this medication does a number on some dangerous fungal infections that might otherwise do damage to the skin, claws, brain, respiratory tract, bones, or other tissues. An ‘extra-label’ medication, it is not approved for use in pets by the FDA, but can legally be prescribed by a vet.

Fluconazole can interact with many other drugs. It is important to tell your veterinarian about any other medications, vitamins, or supplements your pet is taking before giving fluconazole to your pet. Do not give to pets who have liver disease or impairment. If your pet has kidney disease or kidney failure, discuss the risks versus benefits with your veterinarian before giving fluconazole. Do not give to pregnant animals or animals that are nursing unless your veterinarian says the benefits outweigh the risks. Do not give fluconazole to any pets who are sensitive or allergic to other "azole" antifungal medications, such as ketoconazole. If you have any concerns about this medication, talk with your veterinarian before giving it to your pet.

Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Vomiting, diarrhea, skin rashes, loss of appetite, increased liver enzymes, hepatic toxicity, or thrombocytopenia are all possible, but not common, side effects of fluconazole.

Fluconazole should never be used in patients with liver disease, and patients with kidney disease may need to have the intervals and dosage adjusted. Pregnant pets should only take fluconazole if the benefits outweigh the risks. Fluconazole might increase the risk of heart problems caused by terfenadine and astemizole. Anticoagulants might cause increased prothrombin times, and antidiabetic drugs might increase their serum levels, resulting in hypoglycemia, when taken with fluconazole. Fluconazole might inhibit the metabolism of cisapride, resulting in high plasma concentrations, which has been linked to fatal cardiac arrhythmias. Fluconazole might increase cyclosporine levels or plasma levels (when used with hydrochlorothiazide). Rifampin might increase the metabolism rate of fluconazole.

Dogs/Cats (All weights): Dosage and how frequently you will need to administer the medication depends upon the particular infection being treated.

Dogs -- 2.5 - 5 mg/kg orally or IV once a day, or 1.25 - 2.5 mg/kg orally or IV twice a day, for 8 - 12 weeks
Cats -- 2.5 - 10 mg/kg orally every 12 hours for 1 month

Follow your veterinarian's instructions.