Cryptococcal meningitis is inflammation of the linings of the brain or spinal cord. Most people who develop cryptococcal meningitis have T4 cell counts below 100. Another fungal infection, coccidioidomycosis, can also be treated with fluconazole. Some doctors are starting people with low T4 cell counts on fluconazole or a related drug, itraconazole , as preventive treatment for fungal infections. Pfizer Inc., who makes Diflucan, has a Patient Assistance Program that can be reached at 800.869.9979.
Side effects can include headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea.
Although elevation in liver function tests is possible, this drug has far less liver toxicity than ketoconazole. Liver dysfunction can show up as unusual fatigue, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, dark urine, or pale stools. There have also recently been reports of reversible hair loss after long term use of fluconazole. Dosage Fluconazole is available in pill form. Dosage is dependent on infection and can be pill or intravenous form.