Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Fluconazole as follows:
- Fluconazole is significantly excreted unchanged in urine. Individuals with compromised renal functions tend to retain the drug in the circulation longer, thus resulting in toxicity. Renal function could be periodically monitored, to prevent risk for toxicity. Fluconazole should be avoided or used with extreme caution in such individuals. Any exacerbation of symptoms of renal injury and altered kidney function, such as, altered levels of consciousness and reduced urine formation, should be closely watched for and reported to the physician.
- Close watch for signs and symptoms of arrhythmias must be maintained in individuals with history of cardiac arrhythmias, as Fluconazole has the potential to exacerbate any underlying arrhythmias. Compliance with blood work ordered to monitor serum potassium and magnesium ions is mandatory.
- Evenly space out the doses of the antibiotic and take the dose at the scheduled time every day. Keeping to the schedule helps with maintaining a constant level of the antibiotic in the body, which is needed for infection control. Also, this helps to avoid forgetting the medication.
- Maintain strict compliance with intake of Fluconazole as ordered, with regards to dosage and frequency, to derive the benefit of the medication. The dose and length of treatment depends upon the medical condition, severity of infection, and response to treatment.
- Complete the course of the antibiotic that it was prescribed for. Do not give up on the antibiotic, against your doctor’s recommendation, even if the symptoms of infection are controlled.
