Itraconazole

Itraconazole is an antifungal medicine that helps treat certain yeast and fungal infections in any bodily area, such as the lungs, mouth, throat, toenails, or fingernails. This medicine comes as a pill, capsule and oral solution.

Itraconazole pills and capsules are used to treat toenail fungal infections. In addition, mouth, throat, and oesophagus yeast infections are treated with oral solutions containing Itraconazole. The antifungal drug Itraconazole belongs to the triazole class.

What are the uses of Itraconazole?

Several fungal infections can be treated with Itraconazole. It is a member of the group of medicines known as azole antifungals. Itraconazole functions by preventing the synthesis of ergosterol, a crucial element of fungal cell membranes. Thus, the fungal cell membranes— crucial for their survival because they restrict the leaking of cell contents and the entry of undesirable substances—become weaker and more vulnerable. As a result, the primary elements of the fungus' cells seep out, killing the fungi and resulting in effective treatment of the fungal infection.

How and when to take Itraconazole?

• Read all medication guidelines or instructions before using any of the products listed on your prescription label. Take the medication precisely as prescribed.

• You should eat before taking the Itraconazole tablet. Avoid crushing, chewing, breaking, or opening the capsule; instead, take it whole. On an empty stomach, at least 60 minutes before eating or two hours after a meal, take Itraconazole oral solution (liquid). Before swallowing the liquid, swish it around in your mouth for a few seconds. Carefully measure liquid medication. Use dose-measuring equipment or the dosing syringe that is provided.

• If your doctor has advised using Itraconazole oral solution (liquid), do not take Itraconazole capsules in place of it. Itraconazole should be taken with an acidic beverage, such as non-diet cola if you are also taking a stomach acid-reducing medication like Zantac or another. Take this medication for the recommended period, even if your symptoms disappear quickly. Missing doses can increase your chance of developing a drug-resistant illness.

What are the side effects of Itraconazole?

If you have the symptoms of congestive heart failure, fatigue, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, quick weight gain, trouble sleeping and cough with mucus, stop using Itraconazole and contact your doctor immediately. Notice if you have the following symptoms:

• Confusion is a light-headed feeling as if you're about to pass out.
• Visual issues include double vision, ear ringing, and hearing loss.
• Rapid Heartbeats
• Lack of bladder control, tingling or numb sensations
• Hepatic issues include nausea, upper stomach pain, exhaustion, appetite loss, dark urine, and jaundice.
• Pancreatitis causes nausea, vomiting, and severe upper abdominal pain that radiates to your back.
• Symptoms of low potassium levels include leg cramps, fluttering in the chest, increased thirst or urination, muscular weakness, or a limb sensation.

Common side effects of Itraconazole may include:

• Headache, dizziness, drowsiness
• High blood pressure
• Skin rash
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation
• Alterations in your menstrual cycle
• Abnormal liver performance
• An unpleasant aftertaste
• Erection problems

What precautions should be taken?

• Discuss any antifungal medication allergies with your doctor before taking Itraconazole, as the product may contain substances that could cause harmful side effects.
• Let your doctor know if you take any vitamins, nutritional supplements, herbal items, prescription or over-the-counter medications. Itraconazole should be used 1 hour before and 2 hours after any antacid medicine.
• If you have any symptoms of congestive heart failure, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, a cough that produces mucus, irregular heartbeats, oedema, fast weight gain, or sleep difficulties, stop taking Itraconazole and consult your doctor immediately.
• Itraconazole may cause dizziness, so do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you feel dizzy after taking this medication.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: It is not recommended to use Itraconazole during pregnancy. Inform your doctor know if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding before taking this medicine.

What if I missed the dose or have an overdose of Itraconazole?

• The missed dosage has no adverse effects other than a sudden chemical shift in your body. In some circumstances, if you miss a dosage, your doctor may suggest that you take the recommended medication as soon as possible.

• There is a possibility that taking more Itraconazole pills than recommended can negatively impact how your body works. Immediately contact your doctor or get to the emergency department of the closest hospital.

What are the storage conditions of Itraconazole?

• Itraconazole capsules should be kept between 15 to 25C (59 to 77F) at room temperature. Protect the capsules from moisture and light.

• Itraconazole oral solution should be kept at or under 25C (77F). Keep the oral solution from freezing.

• Itraconazole should be kept in the original container, which should be closed securely.

Caution with other medicine

Using some drugs together is occasionally not advised. This is because certain medications might change the amounts of other medicines in your blood, which could worsen the condition or reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.

Several medications can interact with Itraconazole. Inform your doctor about all of the medications you are taking now and any new or discontinued ones.

Understanding potential drug interactions is crucial for safe and effective medical treatment. Itraconazole, an antifungal medication, may interact with various drugs, impacting their effectiveness or causing adverse effects. Inform your healthcare provider about all current and recently stopped medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. 

This comprehensive disclosure helps your doctor assess potential interactions, adjust dosages, or choose alternative medications to ensure your treatment remains both safe and beneficial. Regular communication with your healthcare team is essential for personalized and optimized medical care, minimizing the risks associated with drug interactions.

How quickly does Itraconazole show results?

After therapy, it might take up to four weeks to fully take effect against the fungi.

Itraconazole Vs Lamisil

Faqs

1. Can itraconazole cure skin infections?

Itraconazole is an antifungal medication commonly used to treat systemic fungal infections, including certain skin infections caused by fungi. However, its effectiveness depends on the specific type of fungus causing the infection. Topical antifungal medications are often preferred for superficial skin infections, while systemic antifungals like itraconazole may be prescribed for more severe or widespread cases.

2. Is itraconazole safe for kidneys?

Itraconazole is primarily metabolized by the liver, and its use can be associated with some liver-related side effects. While it is generally considered safe for individuals with normal kidney function, caution is advised in those with pre-existing kidney conditions. Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on kidney function, and regular monitoring is recommended. Consultation with a healthcare professional is essential to determine the appropriateness of itraconazole in individuals with kidney concerns.

3. How is Itraconazole different from other antifungal medications?

Itraconazole belongs to the azole class of antifungal medications, and its mechanism of action involves inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, a key component of fungal cell membranes. It differs from other antifungals in terms of its spectrum of activity, pharmacokinetics, and specific indications. Each antifungal medication has its unique characteristics, and the choice of one over another depends on the type of infection, the causative organism, and individual patient factors.

4. Can pregnant or breastfeeding women use Itraconazole?

Itraconazole is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy unless the potential benefits outweigh the risks. The safety of itraconazole during breastfeeding is also a concern, as it can be excreted in breast milk. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult with their healthcare providers to discuss potential risks and alternative treatment options. In many cases, healthcare professionals may consider other antifungal medications that are deemed safer during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

References:

https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a692049.html#:~:text=Itraconazole%20tablets%20and%20capsules%20are,class%20of%20antifungals%20called%20triazoles. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-128-2179/Itraconazole-oral/Itraconazole-oral/details
https://www.drugs.com/mtm/Itraconazole.html 
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18883-itraconazole-capsules-and-tablets 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is not meant to substitute an advice from a healthcare professional. The information is not intended to cover all the possible uses, side-effects, precautions, and drug interactions. This information is not intended to suggest that using a specific drug is suitable, safe, or efficient for you or anyone else. The absence of any information or warning regarding the drug should not be interpreted as an implicit guarantee from the organisation. We strongly advise you to consult a doctor if you have any concerns about the drug and never use the medication without a doctor’s prescription.