Fluconazole (Diflucan) is an antifungal medication used to treat infections caused by Candida and other fungi. It’s commonly prescribed for vaginal yeast infections, oral thrush, and infections affecting the mouth, throat, or esophagus.

In more serious cases, fluconazole may be used to treat bloodstream infections, urinary tract infections, peritonitis, pneumonia, or cryptococcal meningitis. It can also be prescribed to help prevent fungal infections in people with weakened immune systems, including those undergoing radiation therapy, bone marrow transplant recipients, or people with HIV/AIDS.

Fluconazole is not usually the first-line treatment for fungal skin infections like ringworm. Ringworm is caused by dermatophyte fungi and is most often treated with topical antifungal medications or other oral antifungals specifically indicated for skin infections. In severe or treatment-resistant cases, a healthcare provider may consider oral therapies like fluconazole.

Fluconazole may also be used in persistent or severe belly button yeast infections. These infections are usually treated with topical antifungal creams first, but oral therapy may be an option if needed.

Diflucan, the brand name for fluconazole, is not an antibiotic. It is an antifungal medication, which means it treats infections caused by fungi or yeast, not bacteria.

Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, including skin infections, while fluconazole is commonly prescribed for yeast infections, oral thrush, and other fungal infections. If an infection is bacterial, Diflucan will not be effective, which is why an accurate diagnosis from your healthcare provider is important.

For most uncomplicated vaginal yeast infections, fluconazole (Diflucan) is taken as a single oral dose. If symptoms do not improve within a few days, your healthcare provider may recommend additional doses spaced out over several days.

People who experience frequent or recurring yeast infections may be prescribed fluconazole on a longer-term schedule to help keep infections under control. The exact dosing plan depends on your symptoms, medical history, and how often infections occur. Your provider may also discuss additional treatments for yeast infections based on your health history.

The recommended fluconazole (Diflucan) dosage depends on the type of infection being treated, its severity, and the patient’s age and health history. Dosage may differ for adults, teens, and children, and some conditions require only a single dose while others need ongoing treatment.

Below are common fluconazole dosing guidelines for frequently treated conditions. Your provider may adjust these based on your symptoms and response to therapy:

• Vaginal yeast infection: Getting rid of yeast infections is one of the most common uses for fluconazole. They are often treated with a single oral dose of 150 mg.
• Oral thrush: Dosage and duration can depend on the location and severity of the infection, but 50 mg/day over the course of 7-14 days is typical.
• Fungal skin infections: Fungal skin infections are typically treated with a lower daily dose of 50 mg for 2-4 weeks, depending on the size and location of the affected area.
• Other internal fungal infections: More serious internal fungal infections may require higher doses of fluconazole at the start of treatment, followed by daily dosing for several weeks or longer under medical supervision.

Taking too much fluconazole can increase the risk of side effects. If you think you may have taken more fluconazole than prescribed or are concerned about an overdose, contact your healthcare provider or seek medical attention right away.

Fluconazole (Diflucan) may not be safe for everyone. People with liver disease, certain heart conditions, or known allergies to azole antifungals should discuss risks with a healthcare provider before taking it.

Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medicines you take, as interactions are possible. Examples include pimozide, quinidine, erythromycin, nortriptyline, lemborexant, atorvastatin, abrocitinib, and certain blood thinners like warfarin. Drug interactions can increase the risk of side effects or affect the medication’s effectiveness.

A Sesame provider can help review your medical history, current medications, and potential risk factors to determine if fluconazole is safe for you and suggest alternatives if necessary.

Fluconazole (Diflucan) requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. You can get a new prescription or a refill online through Sesame after a convenient video visit with a qualified provider. You typically do not need to provide proof of a previous prescription

Sesame providers can issue refills for fluconazole when appropriate, without the need for an in-person visit. Many online visits are flexible, and 24/7 online urgent care is available. Booking with a Sesame provider is a convenient way to get the care you need, whether it’s a new prescription, a refill, or guidance on proper dosing and treatment duration.