Itraconazole is an azole antifungal medication used to treat a variety of fungal infections.
How to use itraconazole
Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking itraconazole and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth with a full meal, usually once or twice daily or as directed by your doctor. The capsules must be swallowed whole.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Some conditions may require you to take this medication for 1 week each month until therapy is completed.
This medication works best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Therefore, take this drug at evenly spaced intervals. If you are taking this medication on a schedule other than every day (e.g., 1 week every month), it may help to mark your calendar with a reminder.
You may need to take this medication for several months to treat the infection. Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection.
Take itraconazole 2 hours before or 1 hour after antacids. Antacids may decrease the absorption of this medication. Also, take this medication with a cola drink if you have decreased or no stomach acid (e.g., achlorhydria) or if you take drugs that decrease stomach acid (e.g., H2 blockers such as ranitidine, proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole). Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
The tablet/capsule and solution forms of this medication deliver different amounts of medication and may be used for different purposes. Do not switch dosage forms without your doctor’s permission and directions.
Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.