Itraconazole: What It Is and When It’s Used

Itraconazole is a prescription antifungal that fights stubborn fungal infections like nail fungus, yeast infections, and some types of skin rash. Doctors often pick it when other medicines don’t work or when an infection is deep under the skin or nails. It’s taken by mouth, so you don’t need to apply creams or get injections.

Because it stays in the body for a while, itraconazole can clear infections that take months to heal. That’s why it’s popular for long‑term conditions like onychomycosis (toenail fungus) or chronic pulmonary aspergillosis. If your doctor mentions itraconazole, it’s usually because the infection is tough to reach.

How to Take Itraconazole Correctly

First thing: follow the exact dose your doctor gave you. The tablet or capsule often comes in 100 mg or 200 mg strengths. For nail fungus, the usual plan is 200 mg once daily for 12 weeks, then a break, and another round if needed. For other infections, the schedule can be different.

Take the pill with a full glass of water and a meal that contains some fat. Food helps your body absorb itraconazole better, so skipping a meal can make the drug less effective. If you’re on a liquid form, shake it well and measure with the dropper that comes with the bottle.

Don’t double up if you miss a dose. Just take the next dose at the regular time. If you’re unsure, give your pharmacist a quick call – they’ll tell you the safest move.

Common Side Effects and When to Call a Doctor

Most people feel fine, but itraconazole can cause stomach upset, headache, or a mild rash. These usually clear up on their own. If you notice nausea that won’t go away, persistent vomiting, or severe diarrhea, tell your doctor – they might adjust the dose or switch meds.

Serious side effects are rare but worth watching for. A sudden change in how you feel, like yellow skin or eyes (sign of liver trouble), dark urine, or unusual bruising, needs immediate medical attention. Itraconazole can also affect heart rhythm, so if you get palpitations or faint spells, get checked right away.

Because the drug stays in your system, it can interact with many other medicines. Antacids, some cholesterol pills, and certain antibiotics can lower itraconazole’s effect. Always share your full medication list with your doctor, including over‑the‑counter products and supplements.

Pregnant or nursing moms should be extra careful. Itraconazole isn’t recommended during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks, and it can pass into breast milk. Talk to your healthcare provider if you’re trying to conceive or are already pregnant.

To keep everything on track, schedule regular blood tests if your doctor asks. These checks make sure your liver and kidneys are handling the medication well.

In short, itraconazole works great for tough fungal infections when you take it right, eat with a little fat, and stay alert for side effects. If anything feels off, don’t wait – reach out to your doctor or pharmacist. Staying informed helps you finish the treatment and beat the infection for good.