Description
Itraconazole 200mg(Metrochem Pellets) Capsule- Itraconazole is a triazole antifungal medication used in the treatment of serious fungal infections. The medication is helpful in treating aspergillosis, blastomycosis, histoplasmosis and nail/skin infections. It kills and stops the growth of fungi by destroying its cell membrane, thereby treating your skin infection.
Itraconazole capsules are highly credible due to treating various types of fungal infections. They cures both superficial and systematic infections effectively. The medicine is clinically trusted as it blocks the production of ergosterol which is a vital component of fungal cell membranes. It has been observed that the medication demonstrates lower rates of fungal resistance as compared to other azoles which makes it a reliable choice for persistent or recurring infections. The capsules are generally prescribed once or twice daily.
Dermaville is the primary manufacturer of Itraconazole capsules. It supplies these capsules under the brand name Conaford 200. The company focuses on advanced and evidence-based treatments for skin care. They are a key player in the Derma PCD Pharma Franchise sector in India and offer opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Mechanism of Itraconazole capsules
Itraconazole works by disrupting the synthesis of fungal cell membranes which leads to death of the fungus. It blocks the fungal cytochrome P450-dependent enzyme and lanosterol 14𝛼-demethylase. This enzyme is responsible for converting lanosterol to ergosterol. Itraconazole blocks this conversion which ultimately leads to the inhibition of ergosterol. Inhibition leads to the depletion of ergosterol and accumulation of intermediate. The accumulation of these toxic substances and lack of essential components makes the fungal cell membrane weak, thereby leading to death of the fungus.
Itraconazole is highly selective for fungal cytochrome P450 enzymes, showing weak binding to human counterparts. It is metabolized in the liver into hydroxy-itraconazole which is a major metabolite that possesses antifungal activity comparable to the parent drug.
Itraconazole capsules require an acidic environment in the stomach for optimal dissolution and absorption. The capsules should be taken with a full meal to avoid stomach discomfort.
Benefits of Itraconazole Capsules
Itraconazole capsules are a broad spectrum antifungal medication. It belongs to the triazole class of antifungal agents. The key benefits of these capsules are:
- The medication treats serious systemic infections and fights lung infections like aspergillosis, blastomycosis, and histoplasmosis that can spread throughout the body.
- It is highly effective for fingernail and toenail infections such as onychomycosis.
- Itraconazole kills or stops the growth of many types of fungi and yeasts.
- The capsules can be life saving for those who have weak immune systems, e.g. HIV, chemotherapy.
Side Effects of Itraconazole capsules
Itraconazole is well-tolerated medication but like every other medication, this also has some side effects. If these persist or become uncomfortable, visit your healthcare professional as soon as possible.
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Rash
- Itching
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Alterations in menstrual cycle
Precautions of Itraconazole capsules
For best results, the medicine should be used with proper care and safety guidelines. Consulting a healthcare professional and following the recommended instructions will give you a safe and effective treatment.
- If you experience shortness of breath, rapid weight gain, swelling or fatigue, stop taking the medicine and consult a doctor as these indicate the signs of congestive heart failure.
- Itraconazole can cause serious liver damage. Inform your doctor in advance if you face loss of appetite, dark urine or abdominal pain.
- Do not consume the medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Take capsules with a full meal to increase absorption.
- Do not consume the medicine if you have a medical history of heart failure or dysfunction.
- Itraconazole capsules cause severe drug interactions including allergy meds, cholesterol-lowering drugs and heart rhythm medications.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Q1- Can I swap itraconazole capsules with itraconazole liquid solution?
A- No you can’t swap between the two because the oral liquid is effective for thrush while capsules are used for systemic or nail infections.
Q2- How long itraconazole capsules will take to work?
A- The medication can take 1 to 4 weeks for skin infections and up to 12 weeks for nail infections to completely treat them.
Q3- Can antacids reduce the effectiveness of itraconazole capsules?
A- Antacids reduce the acidic environment in the stomach, which significantly reduces the absorption of itraconazole. It needs a highly acidic environment to dissolve and enter the bloodstream.
Q4- For how long do the itraconazole capsules remain active in the body after stopping them?
A- They remain active in the body for several weeks to months. It is advised to wait atleast 2 weeks after stopping treatment to avoid interactions with other medications.
Q5- Tell whether itraconazole capsules are safe for patients with heart conditions?
A- Itraconazole can reduce the heart’s ability to contract and pump blood. It should not be used to treat nail infections in patients with a history of congestive heart failure.
Q6- What will be the effect of itraconazole capsules on hormone levels and menstruation?
A- Itraconazole disrupts the normal cycle of periods as it interferes with steroid hormone metabolism(estrogen and progesterone).
Q7- Can itraconazole capsules cause fluid retention and swelling?
A- The risk is higher in individuals with pre-existing heart disease and long-term therapy or taking doses.
