Itraconazole

What does it do?

Itraconazole is used to treat and prevent fungal infections.

How should you use it?

Take itraconazole regularly as directed. Keep taking it until the course is finished, even if you start to feel better. Take the capsules with food and a glass of water. Swallow them whole

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with itraconazole including:

• calcium supplements (e.g. Calci-Tab®)
• indigestion medicines such as antacids (e.g. Mylanta®, Gaviscon®), ranitidine (e.g. Zantac®) and omeprazole (Losec®)

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products (e.g. St John's wort) or recreational drugs.

Is there anyone who can't take Itraconazole?

• Tell your doctor if you have liver, kidney or heart problems, or have high cholesterol.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Grapefruit, grapefruit juice or sour/Seville oranges may react with itraconazole. Discuss with your pharmacist.
• Do not take indigestion remedies or calcium within two hours of taking itraconazole.

What side effects might you notice?

Please tell your doctor immediately if you have :

• Symptoms of allergy including: skin rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing
• Infection symptoms: fever, chills, sore throat, aches and pains, tiredness, pain when peeing, mouth ulcers
• Change in heartbeat, chest pain, fainting
• Symptoms of liver problems including: yellow skin or eyes, itching, dark urine, pale bowel motions, abdominal pain
• Swollen feet or legs, shortness of breath

Please tell your doctor if you notice troublesome:

• Headache
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, bloating, indigestion

Will I still be able to drive?

This medication may should not affect your ability to drive a vehicle or heavy machines.

What strengths does Itraconazole come in?

It comes as 100mg strength capsules.