1. Home
  2. Medication
  3. Fluconazole
  4. Side effects

Fluconazole

Common Brand Names: Diflucan

Side Effects & Precautions

Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 5/2/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

What are the side effects of fluconazole?

The use of fluconazole can lead to various side effects in some individuals.

Common mild side effects of fluconazole use include:

  • Headache
  • Nausea or upset stomach
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Changes in taste
  • Indigestion

More severe side effects of fluconazole use can include:

  • Liver problems (such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, abdominal pain)
  • Allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, trouble breathing)
  • Severe skin reactions (such as blistering, peeling, or redness of the skin)
  • Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding
  • Seizures
  • Persistent or severe headache
  • Persistent or severe dizziness
  • Changes in vision or hearing
  • Signs of a serious allergic reaction (such as hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat)

If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking fluconazole, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before using fluconazole?

Tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with fluconazole. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with fluconazole.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:

  • Anticoagulants (blood thinners)
  • Anticonvulsants (seizure medications)
  • Antidepressants
  • Antifungal medications
  • Antiplatelet medications
  • Antipsychotics
  • Heart medications
  • HIV/AIDS medications
  • Diabetes medications
  • Immunosuppressants
  • Chemotherapy medications
  • Oral contraceptives
  • Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium
  • Phenytoin
  • Rifampin or rifabutin (antibiotics)
  • Theophylline (used to treat asthma)

You should also mention medical conditions such as:

  • Liver or kidney disease
  • Heart disease
  • Diabetes
  • History of allergic reactions
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using fluconazole to assess potential risks and benefits.

Are there any other special instructions I should follow?

Take fluconazole exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not skip doses or stop the medication prematurely, even if you start feeling better.

Fluconazole can be taken with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.

Avoid alcohol while taking fluconazole, as it may increase the risk of side effects and reduce the effectiveness of the medication.

If you are using fluconazole for a vaginal yeast infection, abstain from sexual activity until the infection is fully treated to prevent transmission.

Store fluconazole at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of a fluconazole overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dizziness. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.