Itraconazole Capsule

Itraconazole Capsules
Usage
Itraconazole capsules are an oral triazole antifungal medication used to treat a wide range of fungal infections. They are effective against both superficial and systemic fungal pathogens.
They may be prescribed for:
• Dermatophyte infections (e.g., tinea corporis, tinea pedis)
• Onychomycosis (fungal nail infections)
• Candidiasis (e.g., oral or esophageal)
• Systemic fungal infections (e.g., aspergillosis, histoplasmosis, blastomycosis)
• Other practitioner-directed fungal infections

Dosage
Dosage should be determined by the prescribing practitioner based on the type, severity, and location of infection.
Typical dosing considerations include:
• Usually administered once or twice daily, depending on the indication
• Capsules should be taken with food to enhance absorption
• Gastric acidity is important for absorption; avoid concomitant use with acid-reducing agents unless advised
• Treatment duration varies from days to months, depending on infection type
Patients should follow the prescribed dosing schedule and complete the full course of therapy.

Mechanisms of Action
Itraconazole is a triazole antifungal agent.
Its mechanisms include:
Inhibition of ergosterol synthesis
Itraconazole inhibits the fungal enzyme lanosterol 14α-demethylase, which is essential for ergosterol production.
Disruption of fungal cell membrane
Reduced ergosterol leads to impaired cell membrane integrity and function.
Inhibition of fungal growth
This results in fungistatic or fungicidal effects, depending on concentration and organism.

Contraindications
Itraconazole should not be used in patients with:
• Hypersensitivity to itraconazole or other azole antifungals
• Congestive heart failure, due to negative inotropic effects
• Concurrent use of certain medications that may result in serious drug interactions (e.g., drugs metabolised by CYP3A4 that can cause QT prolongation)
• Pregnancy (except in life-threatening infections where benefits outweigh risks)

Precautions
Itraconazole should be used with caution in patients with:
• Hepatic impairment, due to risk of hepatotoxicity
• Renal impairment
• Cardiac disease, including risk of heart failure
• Use of medications that interact via CYP3A4 metabolism
Additional considerations include:
• Monitor for signs of liver dysfunction (e.g., jaundice, fatigue, dark urine)
• May cause gastrointestinal upset, headache, or dizziness
• Drug interactions are common and should be reviewed carefully
• Patients should seek medical advice if they experience shortness of breath, swelling, or signs of liver problems

Storage
• Store below 25°C unless otherwise directed
• Keep capsules in a tightly closed container
• Protect from heat, moisture, and direct light
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
Patients should follow the storage instructions provided on the dispensing label supplied by the pharmacy.