Fluconazole
Brands: Diflucan, Trican
Fluconazole is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections in pets.
Used for
- cryptococcosis
- blastomycosis
- dermatophytosis
How it is given
- Administration
- oral
- Frequency
- once daily
- Duration
- typical treatment duration is several weeks
- Storage
- store at room temperature, away from moisture and sunlight
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 5 mg/kg every 24 hours
dog
- Large dogs
- 2.5-5 mg/kg every 24 hours
- Small dogs
- 2.5-5 mg/kg every 24 hours
- Medium dogs
- 2.5-5 mg/kg every 24 hours
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Fluconazole
Side effects
Common
- gastrointestinal upset
- loss of appetite
Rare
- elevated liver enzymes
Severe
- severe skin reactions
Do not use when
- known hypersensitivity
- liver disease without supervision
Interacts with
- cyclosporine
- warfarin
Warnings
- regular liver function tests recommended
- adjust dose in kidney disease
Fluconazole questions
What are the signs of an allergic reaction?
Swelling, hives, and difficulty breathing.
Can fluconazole be used in pregnant pets?
Use with caution; consult a veterinarian.
How long does it take to see results?
Initial improvement may be seen within a few days, but full treatment may last weeks.
Is fluconazole safe with other medications?
Discuss all current medications with your vet to avoid interactions.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip if it’s close to the next dose.
Full drug detail
Overview
Fluconazole is an antifungal medication commonly prescribed for pets to treat various fungal infections. It is effective against a range of fungal pathogens and is used in both dogs and cats.
How It Works
Fluconazole works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes. This disruption leads to cell membrane damage and ultimately, the death of the fungal cells.
Uses & Indications
Fluconazole is primarily used to treat fungal infections such as cryptococcosis, blastomycosis, and dermatophytosis. It is particularly useful in treating systemic fungal infections that can affect internal organs.
Dosage Guidelines
Dogs
- Small Dogs: 2.5-5 mg/kg every 24 hours
- Medium Dogs: 2.5-5 mg/kg every 24 hours
- Large Dogs: 2.5-5 mg/kg every 24 hours
Cats
- Standard Dosage: 5 mg/kg every 24 hours
Administration
Fluconazole is administered orally, usually in tablet or liquid form. It can be given with or without food.
Side Effects
Common
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Loss of appetite
Rare
- Elevated liver enzymes
Severe
- Severe skin reactions, requiring immediate veterinary attention
Precautions & Warnings
- Regular liver function tests are recommended.
- Adjust dose in pets with kidney disease.
Drug Interactions
- Cyclosporine
- Warfarin
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to fluconazole
- Pets with liver disease without veterinary supervision
FAQ
-
What are the signs of an allergic reaction?
- Swelling, hives, and difficulty breathing.
-
Can fluconazole be used in pregnant pets?
- Use with caution; consult a veterinarian.
-
How long does it take to see results?
- Initial improvement may be seen within a few days, but full treatment may last weeks.
-
Is fluconazole safe with other medications?
- Discuss all current medications with your vet to avoid interactions.
-
What should I do if I miss a dose?
- Give the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip if it is close to the next dose.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight.