Fluconazole: What it treats and how to use it

Fluconazole is an oral antifungal used to treat yeast infections in different parts of the body. You’ve probably heard of it for vaginal yeast infections, but doctors also use it for oral thrush, some skin and nail infections, and serious fungal illnesses in people with weakened immune systems. It’s prescription-only in most places, so don’t self-medicate without checking with a clinician.

Common uses & dosing

For uncomplicated vaginal yeast infections the usual dose is a single 150 mg tablet. For thrush or skin infections doctors may prescribe daily doses for 1–2 weeks or longer depending on the site and severity. Serious systemic infections (like cryptococcal meningitis) require higher doses and close monitoring in a hospital setting. Always follow the exact dose and length your doctor gives you — stopping early or changing the schedule can make the infection come back.

Side effects, interactions & safety

Most people tolerate fluconazole well. Common side effects include nausea, headache, stomach pain, and dizziness. Rare but serious problems include liver injury and severe skin reactions. If you get yellowing of the skin, dark urine, persistent nausea, or a spreading rash, stop the drug and contact a doctor right away.

Fluconazole interacts with many medicines because it affects liver enzymes (CYP450). Important examples are warfarin, certain statins, some benzodiazepines, and drugs for irregular heart rhythms. Those interactions can raise levels of other drugs and cause harm. Tell your prescriber about all medicines, supplements, and even herbal products you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding need special attention. A single 150 mg dose for vaginal yeast is sometimes debated in pregnancy; many providers avoid fluconazole high doses during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. If you’re pregnant or trying to become pregnant, discuss safer options with your clinician.

Long-term or high-dose therapy usually requires baseline liver tests and follow-up checks. People with known liver disease should be monitored closely. Also mention any heart rhythm problems to your prescriber — fluconazole can affect QT interval in some cases.

Practical tips: take it at the same time each day with or without food, finish the prescribed course, and don’t double doses if you miss one — just take the next scheduled dose. Avoid heavy drinking if you have liver concerns. Store tablets in a cool, dry place away from children.

If symptoms don’t improve in a few days for simple infections, or if you have fever, chills, or spreading redness, see a doctor. For online pharmacies, choose licensed, reputable services that require a prescription and offer pharmacist contact — that helps avoid counterfeit or unsafe products.

Got questions about a specific dose or interaction? Ask your pharmacist or prescriber — they can give advice tailored to your health and other medicines.