DIFLUCAN GEL ® is a Fluconazole-based drug
THERAPEUTIC GROUP: Antifungals for cutaneous use - triazole derivatives
Indications DIFLUCAN GEL ® Fluconazole
DIFLUCAN GEL ® is used in the treatment of cutaneous mycoses caused by yeasts, fungi and dermatophytes such as Tinea spp and Candida.
Mechanism of action DIFLUCAN GEL ® Fluconazole
DIFLUCAN GEL ® is a drug based on Fluconazole, an active ingredient with antifungal activity, generally taken orally or parenterally, but which in this case is instead used topically.
More precisely, applied to the area affected by the infectious process, the active ingredient easily penetrates through the plasma membrane concentrating in the fungal cell and inhibiting enzymes involved in the synthesis of ergosterol, a fundamental element for its structure.
This activity also determines the accumulation of numerous metabolites capable of interfering with normal membrane activities, compromising the vitality of the cell itself.
All this then translates into a prompt regression of the symptoms due to the inhibition of the growth and vitality of the pathogenic elements.
The efficacy of the treatment is also supported by the excellent pharmacokinetic properties which prevent the active principle from reaching blood concentrations with a pharmacological effect.
Studies carried out and clinical efficacy
FLUCONAZOLE: new delivery systems
AAPS PharmSciTech. 2002; 3: E35.
The development of Cutina lipogels and gel microemulsion for topicaladministration of fluconazole.
El Laithy HM, El-Shaboury KM.
Pharmacokinetic studies that test new delivery systems of Fluconazole for topical use, in order to optimize the clinical efficacy of the treatment, while maintaining safe and easy administration.
THE USE OF FLUCONAZOLE IN OPHTHALMOLOGICAL PATHOLOGIES
Curr Eye Res. 2003 Feb; 26: 113-7.
Comparison of efficacy of topical and oral fluconazole treatment in experimental Aspergillus keratitis.
Avunduk AM, Beuerman RW, Warnel ED, Kaufman HE, Greer D.
Work that demonstrates how treatment with both oral and topical Fluconazole is effective in the treatment of Aspergillus-induced keratitis.
However, it is useful to remember that these results are still in the experimental phase and conducted on animal models.
FLUCONAZOLE IN THE CHEMYOPROPHYLAXIS OF FUNGAL INFECTIONS IN PREMATURE
J Paediatr Child Health. 2012 Sep; 48: 846-51.
Chemoprophylaxis of neonatal fungal infections in very low birthweight infants: efficacy and safety of fluconazole and nystatin.
Blyth CC, Barzi F, Hale K, Isaacs D.
Interesting study that tests the efficacy of Fluconazole in preventing invasive fungal infections in preterm infants weighing less than 1.5 kg and therefore potentially at risk.
Method of use and dosage
DIFLUCAN GEL ®
Fluconazole 0.5% gel for cutaneous use.
Generally, the application of the correct quantity of gel on the skin region affected by the infectious process once a day for 1-3 weeks is sufficient to guarantee a remission of the symptoms.
If the results are delayed, it would be advisable to consult your doctor with whom to evaluate the possibility of prolonging the therapy.
Warnings DIFLUCAN GEL ® Fluconazole
The use of DIFLUCAN GEL ® should take place after an adequate medical consultation useful to characterize the pathology in progress.
In order to avoid contact of the product with the mucous membranes, it is recommended to thoroughly cleanse the hands.
Given the photosensitizing power of Fluconazole it would be advisable to avoid direct exposure to the sun following the use of DIFLUCAN GEL ®, in order to reduce the risk of burns.
It is recommended to store the drug in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children
PREGNANCY AND BREASTFEEDING
The absence of clinical trials able to characterize the safety profile of the drug for the health of the fetus and the infant, extends the contraindications to the use of the drug also to pregnancy and to the subsequent breastfeeding period.
Interactions
The low systemic absorption of the active ingredient minimizes the risk of potential pharmacologically relevant interactions, thus making therapy with DIFLUCAN GEL ® generally safe.
Contraindications DIFLUCAN GEL ® Fluconazole
DIFLUCAN GEL ® is generally contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation and in all patients with ascertained hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or to one of its excipients as well as to structurally similar molecules.
Undesirable Effects - Side Effects
The use of DIFLUCAN GEL ® could determine the appearance of local reactions such as skin irritation or rash.
In both cases the symptoms regress spontaneously upon discontinuation of therapy.
Note
DIFLUCAN GEL ® is a drug not subject to mandatory medical prescription.
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