Final answer:
Fluconazole 150mg is an antifungal medication used for treating various fungal infections like vaginal candidiasis, oral thrush, and systemic infections. It operates by disrupting fungal cell membranes, with oral and IV forms available, and is particularly critical for immunocompromised patients.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fluconazole 150mg tablet is an antifungal medication used to treat a variety of fungal infections. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of the fungal cell membrane. Fluconazole is often prescribed for conditions such as vaginal candidiasis, oral thrush, and systemic infections like cryptococcal meningitis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals such as those with AIDS.
This medication can be administered orally or intravenously, depending on the severity and type of infection. It is known for its selective toxicity, which means it targets fungal cells with fewer side effects compared to other antifungal treatments. Fluconazole is also part of long-term treatment regimens to fully eradicate infections like cryptococcus, especially after initial treatment with drugs such as amphotericin B and flucytosine.
When treating conditions like vaginal candidiasis, fluconazole may be used as an oral treatment option when topical applications like clotrimazole or miconazole are not suitable or effective. Moreover, because of the potential severity and recurrence of fungal infections in immunocompromised patients, preventative or long-term treatment with fluconazole may be recommended.