Diflucan (fluconazole): what it treats and how to use it safely

Diflucan is the brand name for fluconazole, a commonly prescribed antifungal. It’s often used for vaginal yeast infections, oral thrush, and some skin or systemic fungal infections. Many people like it because a single 150 mg tablet can clear an uncomplicated vaginal yeast infection, but dosing and duration change a lot depending on the problem. This guide gives clear, practical info so you know what to expect and what to ask your prescriber.

How to take Diflucan safely

For vaginal yeast: a single 150 mg oral dose is typical. For other infections—like oral thrush, skin infections, or recurrent yeast infections—doctors may prescribe 100–200 mg daily for several days to weeks. More serious systemic infections require higher doses under close medical care. Always follow your doctor’s dose and finish the prescribed course unless advised otherwise.

Take Diflucan with or without food. If you miss a dose for a multi-day course, take it as soon as you remember that day and continue as directed. Don’t double up doses to make up for a missed one.

If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, tell your doctor before taking Diflucan. Single-dose treatment is usually avoided in early pregnancy unless a doctor decides the benefit outweighs the risk.

Side effects and drug interactions to watch for

Common side effects include nausea, stomach pain, headache, and changes in taste. A mild rash can happen; stop the drug and seek care if you get a severe rash, swelling, or breathing trouble. Though rare, fluconazole can affect the liver—look out for yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent nausea and stop the medicine and contact a doctor if those occur.

Fluconazole interacts with several drugs. It can increase blood levels of warfarin, certain statins (like simvastatin), some benzodiazepines, and drugs that affect heart rhythm (QT prolonging meds). Rifampin and some enzyme inducers can lower fluconazole levels. Tell your provider about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you take.

Buying tips: always use a licensed pharmacy and keep a prescription. If you buy online, pick a pharmacy with clear contact info, pharmacist access, and good reviews. Avoid sites that sell prescription drugs without asking for a prescription or that offer unrealistically low prices. Your local pharmacist can also help check for interactions and answer dosing questions.

If symptoms don’t improve in a few days or they come back often, see your doctor—recurrent or resistant infections may need testing or a different plan. Diflucan is effective and convenient when used right; the key is correct dosing, checking interactions, and getting treatment that matches the infection type.