Common Use
Sporanox is an azole antifungal medicine used to treat serious fungal infections, including:
- Blastomycosis
- Histoplasmosis
- Aspergillosis
It works by killing sensitive fungi by interfering with fungal cell membrane formation. Sporanox is also prescribed for onychomycosis, which affects toenails and fingernails.
Dosage and Direction
Take Sporanox orally with or without food or milk. For best results, take it at the same time each day. Dosage varies based on the infection type:
1. Treatment of Blastomycosis and Histoplasmosis
- Adults: 200 mg once daily. Do not exceed 400 mg daily.
- Children: Use only under doctor's supervision.
2. Treatment of Aspergillosis
- Adults: 200 mg to 400 mg daily.
- Children: Use only under doctor's supervision.
3. Treatment in Life-Threatening Situations
- Adults: 200 mg three times daily (600 mg/day) for the first 3 days. Treatment should continue for at least three months or until clinical and lab results confirm the infection has subsided.
- Children: Use only under doctor's supervision.
4. Treatment of Onychomycosis (Toenails with or Without Fingernail Involvement)
- Adults: 200 mg once daily for 12 consecutive weeks.
- Children: Use only under doctor's supervision.
5. Treatment of Onychomycosis (Fingernails Only)
- Adults: Two treatment pulses of 200 mg daily for 1 week each.
- Children: Use only under doctor's supervision.
Note: This information is for reference only. Always consult your doctor before use for optimal results.
Precautions
Sporanox may negatively affect the heart. Avoid use for fungal nail infections if you have:
- Congestive heart failure
- Heart rhythm disorders
- History of Long QT syndrome
Inform your doctor if you have:
- Kidney or liver disease
- Breathing disorders
- Cystic fibrosis
Do not take antacids within 1 hour before or 2 hours after Sporanox. Avoid use during pregnancy, while trying to conceive, or while breastfeeding without medical advice.
Contraindications
Sporanox is not recommended for those who:
- Are hypersensitive to itraconazole, fluconazole (Diflucan), or ketoconazole (Nizoral)
- Have a history of congestive heart failure
Possible Side Effects
Serious side effects may include:
- Allergic reactions (hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face/lips/tongue)
- Fever, shortness of breath
- Swelling, rapid weight gain
- Hearing problems, numbness, tingling
- Dark urine, jaundice, liver problems
Less serious side effects:
- Diarrhea, constipation, mild stomach pain
- Skin rash, itching
- Headache, dizziness, runny nose
Stop using Sporanox and contact your doctor if any unusual side effects occur.
Drug Interactions
Sporanox may interact with:
- Cisapride
- Dihydroergotamine
- Dofetilide
- Ergotamine
- Lovastatin
- Simvastatin
- Triazolam
- And others (consult your doctor)
Drug interactions do not always require stopping medication. Consult your doctor for management advice.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's near the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.
Overdose
Overdose symptoms are not well-documented. Seek medical help immediately if unusual symptoms appear.
Storage
Store at room temperature (59-77°F or 15-25°C) away from light, moisture, children, and pets. Do not use after expiration.
Disclaimer
This information is general and does not cover all precautions, interactions, or directions. Always consult your doctor before use. We are not liable for any damages resulting from improper use of this information.