Itraconazole belongs to triazole and imidazole antifungal drug. It is used by immunocompromised and non-immunocompromised patients. it interacts with the membrane phospholipids thus inhibits the endogenous respiration. It also prevents the transformation of yeast into the mycelial cells. The drug accumulates in the fungi which is responsible for its fungicidal action.

Indication and Usage:
Itraconazole capsules are indicated for the treatment of:-
● Vulvovaginal candidiasis
● Pityriasis Versicolor, dermatomycosis, fungal keratitis, oral candidiasis
● Onychomycosis caused by dermatophytes and/or yeasts
● Systemic mycoses, including aspergillosis and non-invasive systemic candidiasis (without underlying Immunosuppression), histoplasmosis, sporotrichosis, paracoccidioidomycosis, blastomycosis, and other rarely occurring systemic or tropical mycoses

Mechanism of action
Itraconazole inhibits the cytochrome P450 enzymes i.e. 14 alpha demethylase which is responsible for the conversion of ergosterol into lanosterol. ergosterol here is the component of fungal cell membrane.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption- It is absorbed orally
Protein Binding- It is 99% bound to proteins
Metabolism- It undergoes oxidation and dealkylation
Excretion- It is excreted via urine

Side Effects
● Swelling, rapid weight gain
● Problems with hearing
● Pain in your upper stomach, itching, loss of appetite, weakness

Contraindications
● Itraconazole capsules are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to itraconazole or to any of the excipients and also during pregnancy and during breast feeding.
● Itraconazole can cause congestive heart failure (condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood through the body). Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart failure and also if there is any history of liver and kidney diseases.

Precautions
Itraconazole capsules may cause dizziness. This effect may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines.

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