Capsules, oral solution
To treat serious fungal infections occurring in the lungs and other parts of the body. These infections may occur in patients who do not have other illnesses, although they frequently occur in patients with weakened immune systems. Itraconazole is sometimes prescribed for fungal infections that are limited only to the nails.
Itraconazole prevents fungal organisms from producing vital substances required for growth and function. This drug is effective only for infections caused by fungal organisms. It will not work against bacterial or viral infections.
Capsules-- Adults and teenagers 16 and older: 200 to 400 mg, taken once daily. Children under age 16: Consult your pediatrician for proper dosage. Oral solution-- Adults and teenagers: 100 to 200 mg once a day for days or weeks, depending on the condition being treated. Children: Consult your pediatrician. Swish the solution vigorously in your mouth for several seconds before swallowing.
Unknown.
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Take capsules with food, but do not take the oral solution with food. Maintain your usual food and fluid intake. Patients with immune system diseases are often weakened by their illness, by medications, or by other treatments, and may be unable to consume adequate amounts of nutritious food. Use liquid supplements if necessary.
Store in a tightly sealed container away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Take it as soon as you remember. This will help keep a constant level of medication in your system. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosage schedule. Do not double the next dose.
Take it as prescribed for the full treatment period, even if you begin to feel better before the scheduled end of therapy. The decision to stop taking the drug should be made by your doctor. Gradual reduction of the dose may be necessary if you have been taking this medicine for a long time.
Therapy with this medication may require months. Prolonged use may increase the risk of adverse effects.
Adverse reactions may be more likely and more severe.
Do not drive or engage in hazardous work until you determine how the medicine affects you.
Avoid alcohol throughout therapy and for two days afterwards.
Adequate studies of itraconazole use during pregnancy have not been done. Consult your doctor for specific advice if you are or are planning to become pregnant.
Itraconazole passes into breast milk; avoid or discontinue use while nursing.
Itraconazole is not recommended for use by children under the age of 16.
Women should use effective contraception to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication. Continue these measures for at least 2 months following the end of therapy. The capsules and the oral solution should not be used interchangeably.
An overdose with itraconazole is unlikely.
Emergency instructions not applicable.
While taking itraconazole, do not take astemizole, cisapride, or terfenadine. Serious side effects involving the heart may result. You should not take medications containing alcohol, such as cough syrups, elixirs, and tonics. Consult your doctor for specific advice if you are taking antacids, anticholinergics, Histamine H2-blockers, omeprazole, oral antidiabetics, sucralfate, carbamazepine, cyclosporine, isoniazid, didanosine, digoxin, phenytoin, rifampin, or warfarin. If you are taking an antacid, take it at least 2 hours after taking itraconazole.
No known food interactions.
Consult your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: liver or kidney disease, low levels or absence of stomach acid, or a history of alcohol abuse.
