What Is Fluconazole Used For?

Cryptococcal meningitis and various types of fungal infections, such as yeast infections, thrush, and bloodstream infections, can be treated with fluconazole. It is also approved to prevent Candida infections in people undergoing bone marrow transplantations. Occasionally, healthcare providers may recommend off-label fluconazole uses, such as for the treatment or prevention of other infections in bone marrow transplant recipients.

Fluconazole Drug Information

Fluconazole Uses: An Overview

Fluconazole (Diflucan^®) is a prescription antifungal medication. Approved uses for fluconazole include the following:

Treating the following infections caused by a certain type of fungus (Candida):

Vaginal yeast infections
Thrush of the mouth and throat
Urinary tract infections
Infection of the lining of the abdominal cavity (peritonitis)
Pneumonia
Bloodstream infections (candidemia)
Widespread infections throughout much of the body (disseminated candidiasis).

Preventing Candida infections (such as those discussed previously) in people undergoing bone marrow transplantation who have had chemotherapy or radiation

Treating cryptococcal meningitis (infection of the membranes of the brain and spinal cord caused by a certain fungus).

Typically, for serious infections, tests will be done to see exactly what kind of fungus, bacteria, or virus is causing an infection and which antifungals, antibiotics, or antivirals will be effective. While waiting for the results (which can take awhile), healthcare providers will usually prescribe medications based on their best guesses about the infection. Once the results from the tests come back, the healthcare provider will adjust the choice of medication as necessary.

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