Uses of Posaconazole

Posaconazole is used to treat various fungal infections such as chromoblastomycosis (infection of skin and subcutaneous tissue) and mycetoma (chronic infection of the skin) (when other antifungal medicines such as amphotericin B or itraconazole are ineffective or when these medicines have to be stopped in treating the infection).

Therapeutic Category

Posaconazole: Antifungals

How Posaconazole works

Posaconazole works by blocking the synthesis of ergosterol, a key component of the fungal cell membrane, thus results in killing or stopping the growth of fungi causing infection.

Common side effects of Posaconazole

• Abnormal skin sensations (numbness, tingling, itching, creeping, pricking or burning)
• High blood pressure, headache
• Loss of appetite, stomach pain or upset stomach, passing wind, dry mouth, changes in taste
• Heartburn (burning sensation in the chest which rises up to throat)
• Fever, weakness
• Dizzy, tired or sleepy
• Rash, itching
• Constipation, rectal discomfort

When to consult your doctor

• If you experience severe nausea or vomiting and diarrhea
• If you experience signs of liver problems (jaundice (yellow skin or white of the eyes), unusually dark urine or pale feces, unusual sickness, stomach problems, loss of appetite or unusual tiredness or weakness, an increase in liver enzymes shown up in blood tests)
• If you experience allergic reactions

Health Tips for Posaconazole

• Always follow the prescribed dosage and schedule as directed by your doctor. Do not alter the dosage or stop treatment without consulting your doctor
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration, as Posaconazole can increase the risk of dehydration
• Avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking Phenytoin, as it may increase the risk of certain side effects
• Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as Posaconazole can interact with certain drugs
• Posaconazole is not recommended for use in pregnant and breast feeding women