Itraconazole 100 mg Capsules

Detailed Description — Itraconazole Capsules 100 mg

Itraconazole 100 mg Capsules are a prescription antifungal medication used to treat both superficial and systemic fungal infections. Belonging to the class of azole antifungals, itraconazole works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes. Without ergosterol, fungal cells become unstable, leading to the death of the fungus.

Itraconazole is widely prescribed because of its broad-spectrum antifungal activity, covering yeasts, dermatophytes, and certain molds. It is effective in treating infections of the skin, nails, respiratory tract, and other organs caused by susceptible fungi.

Uses of Itraconazole 100 mg Capsules

Itraconazole 100 mg Capsules are used to treat:

• Fungal infections of the skin (ringworm, athlete’s foot, jock itch)

• Nail infections (onychomycosis)

• Oral or esophageal candidiasis

• Systemic fungal infections (aspergillosis, blastomycosis, histoplasmosis)

• Fungal infections in immunocompromised patients

Itraconazole 100 mg Capsules is particularly beneficial when topical treatments are ineffective or when fungal infections affect deeper tissues.

How Itraconazole Works

Itraconazole works by:

• Inhibiting the fungal enzyme lanosterol 14α-demethylase

• Preventing the production of ergosterol, an essential fungal cell membrane component

• Causing fungal cell death or growth inhibition

Since human cells do not produce ergosterol, itraconazole selectively targets fungi with minimal effect on human cells.

Dosage & Administration

• The usual dose varies based on the infection type

• Common dose: 100 mg once or twice daily, depending on severity

• Capsules should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water

• Can be taken with food to improve absorption

• Treatment duration depends on infection location and severity (may range from 1 week to several months)

Always follow the doctor’s prescription and complete the entire course, even if symptoms improve early.

Benefits of Itraconazole 100 mg Capsules

• Broad-spectrum antifungal coverage

• Effective for both skin and systemic infections

• Oral administration ensures deep tissue penetration

• Can be used in immunocompromised patients

• Well-studied safety and efficacy profile

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Diarrhea or abdominal pain

• Headache

• Dizziness

Serious side effects (rare):

• Liver toxicity (hepatitis, elevated liver enzymes)

• Heart-related issues (congestive heart failure in susceptible patients)

• Severe allergic reactions

• Rash or skin reactions

Patients may need periodic liver function tests during prolonged therapy.

Precautions & Warnings

• Inform your doctor if you have liver disease, heart disease, or kidney problems

• Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless prescribed

• Avoid self-medication for fungal infections

• Monitor for signs of liver problems: dark urine, yellowing of skin/eyes, fatigue

• Inform your doctor about all medications, as itraconazole can interact with many drugs

Drug Interactions

Itraconazole can interact with several medications, including:

• Certain blood thinners (warfarin)

• Statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs)

• Antacids or acid-reducing medications (can reduce absorption)

• Antiarrhythmics

• Other antifungals or HIV medications

Always disclose all medications to your healthcare provider before starting itraconazole.

Storage Instructions

• Store below 25°C in a dry place

• Keep capsules in original packaging until use

• Keep out of reach of children

• Do not use after the expiry date

External Reference

For detailed information about itraconazole, visit:
🔗 https://www.drugs.com/itraconazole.html

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is Itraconazole 100 mg Capsules used for?
To treat fungal infections of the skin, nails, mouth, esophagus, and systemic fungal infections.

2. How should I take itraconazole capsules?
Swallow whole with water, preferably with food, as prescribed by your doctor.

3. Can itraconazole treat all fungal infections?
No. It is effective only against fungi susceptible to itraconazole.

4. How long does it take to see results?
Improvement may be seen within days to weeks for skin infections, but nail or systemic infections may take months.

5. Is itraconazole safe during pregnancy?
It is generally not recommended unless prescribed by a doctor.

6. What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one—do not double the dose.

7. Are there any serious side effects?
Rarely, itraconazole can cause liver toxicity or heart problems. Immediate medical attention is required if severe symptoms occur.