Fluconazole – a simple guide to what it does and how to use it

Fluconazole is a prescription antifungal many people know for treating yeast infections. One pill can fix vaginal yeast for a lot of people, but the drug is also used for mouth thrush, some skin infections, and more serious fungal illnesses in the hospital. This page explains when fluconazole helps, common doses, side effects to watch for, and what you should tell your doctor before taking it.

How fluconazole is used

For a vaginal yeast infection, the most common dose is a single 150 mg tablet. For oral thrush or recurrent vaginal infections, doctors often use 100–200 mg once daily for a few days or longer depending on the case. More serious infections — including bloodstream or brain infections — may need higher doses (200–400 mg or more) and close medical monitoring. Always follow your provider’s instructions; dosing depends on the type and severity of the infection and your overall health.

Some strains of Candida (for example, Candida glabrata and Candida krusei) respond less well to fluconazole. If symptoms don’t improve within a few days for a simple infection, or if you have a weakened immune system, your doctor may order tests or choose a different antifungal.

Side effects, risks and interactions

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

Fluconazole affects enzymes in the liver that handle many other medicines. It can raise blood levels of warfarin (higher bleeding risk), some statins (higher muscle injury risk), certain benzodiazepines, and several anti-seizure drugs. Always tell your clinician about prescription drugs, herbal supplements, and over-the-counter meds you use. Also mention pregnancy or breastfeeding: short single doses are often used for yeast infections, but repeated or high-dose fluconazole in early pregnancy has been linked to birth defects, so doctors usually avoid it in pregnant women unless absolutely necessary.

If you need long-term treatment, your provider may check liver tests occasionally. Avoid heavy alcohol while on fluconazole to reduce liver strain. Don’t stop or change doses without talking to your prescriber.

Practical tips: take fluconazole with or without food, store it at room temperature, and finish the prescribed course unless told otherwise. If symptoms get worse, you develop fever, or you have new joint pain or breathing trouble, seek medical care. If you ordered medication online, verify the pharmacy’s legitimacy and keep your prescriber informed to stay safe.