Fluconazole (
Diflucan®) is a prescription antifungal medication approved to treat a variety of different fungal infections, such as
yeast infections and thrush. It can also be used to prevent
yeast infections in people undergoing bone marrow transplantations.
Fluconazole belongs to a group of drugs known commonly as "azole" antifungals. It works by inhibiting an enzyme that is used by fungal cells to make ergosterol, an important component of the fungal cell membrane. As a result, there is not enough ergosterol and too much of the compounds that are normally used to make it, and fungal growth is inhibited.
Unlike most other yeast infection medications, fluconazole is not used vaginally. It works through the bloodstream to treat yeast infections. Fluconazole is available in a number of strengths and comes in tablet, suspension (oral liquid), and injectable form.
(Click Fluconazole for more information on what fluconazole is used for, what side effects may occur, and warnings and precautions associated with this antifungal medicine.)
