CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Gigi Davidson,
Medication: Fluconazole
Medication: Fluconazole
Your cat has been prescribed fluconazole for the treatment of a fungal infection.
Key points:
• Antifungal.
• Should not be used in pregnant animals.
• Should not be handled by pregnant women.
• Dosage: given orally. Follow your veterinarian’s directions.
This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist.Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.
Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Fluconazole (floo-con-ah-zole).
Brand name
- There are no licensed veterinary medications for cats containing fluconazole. Your veterinarian can advise you regarding the off-licence use of this medication.
Class of medication
- Anti-fungal.
Storage
- Store below 30’C. Do not freeze.
- Oral liquids should be shaken well before use.
Why has my cat been prescribed fluconazole?
Your veterinarian has prescribed fluconazole for the treatment of a fungal infection, such as Blastomyces dermatitidis, Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans, Coccidioides, Histoplasma, Microsporum canis, Aspergillus and/or Penicillum infections.
How is the medication given?
Fluconazole is given by mouth as tablets or as a liquid and may be given with or without food. Administering with food may reduce the likelihood of side-effects. Fluconazole may also be administered intravenously by your veterinarian. Treatment may last for several months for some fungal infections.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Safety of fluconazole in pregnant and lactating queens has not been established. Fluconazole does cross into the milk and should only be used in nursing mothers if benefit outweighs risk.
Fluonazole should be used with caution in cats with kidney or liver disease. Long term use may predispose to liver disease.
Possible side -effects include diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Fluconazole should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease or who are at increased risk for cardiac arrhythmias, because it has been associated with prolongation of the QT interval.
Fluconazole should not be used in animals that have previously had an allergic reaction to fluconazole.
Drug interactions
Fluconazole may interact with the following medications: phenytoin, theophylline, amphotericin B, benzodiazepines, buspirone, cimetidine, cisapride, colchicine, corticosteroids, cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine, diuretics (thiazides), fentanyl, losartan, macrolide antibiotics, methadone, NSAIDs, quinidine, rifampin, sildenafil, tricyclic antidepressants, sulfonylurea antidiabetic agents, vincristine/vinblastine, and warfarin. Tell your veterinarian about any medications or supplements that your dog is receiving at home.
How long will my cat need to receive this medication?
Fluconazole should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions. Some fungal diseases require months of treatment. Length of treatment may depend upon the individual response to therapy.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused fluconazole safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save fluconazole for future use or give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period.
My cat is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Fluconazole is toxic to some pet birds (budgies and parakeets). Call your veterinarian immediately if fluconazole is ingested by one of these birds.
Fluconazole should only be given to the dcat that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice.
If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.
Will my cat need to be monitored while on fluconazole?
Your veterinarian may need to regularly check your pet during treatment to assess response to treatment. Your veterinarian may also wish to monitor your pet’s liver and kidney function.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on fluconazole can be found on the package insert.
Europe & UK
- There are no licensed medications for cats containing fluconazole in the UK and Europe. Your veterinary surgeon can advise as to the off-license use of this medication.
US
- There are no licensed medications for cats containing fluconazole in the US. Your veterinarian can advise as to the off-license use of this medication.
Always follow the recommended dosage and contact your veterinary team or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your cat’s medication.
