Canditral 100 Cap

Canditral 100 Capsule

Canditral 100 Capsule is an antifungal medication manufactured by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd. and is also known by its common name, Itraconazole Capsules 100 mg.

Composition

Each capsule contains 100 mg of Itraconazole as the active ingredient. Itraconazole works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, a vital component of fungal cell membranes, thereby weakening the fungal cell and preventing its growth and replication.

Uses

Canditral 100 Capsule is prescribed for the treatment of various fungal infections in different parts of the body, including the mouth, throat, vagina, skin, nails (fingernails and toenails), feet, hands, lungs, and other internal organs. Specific conditions it treats include:

• Oral thrush and Oropharyngeal candidiasis
• Onychomycosis (fungal nail infection)
• Ringworm infection (tinea corporis, tinea cruris, tinea manuum, tinea pedis)
• Vaginal candidiasis (yeast infection)
• Systemic fungal infections such as blastomycosis, histoplasmosis, aspergillosis, and cryptococcosis. It can also be used for prophylaxis against opportunistic mycoses in immunocompromised patients.

Dosage and Administration

Canditral 100 Capsule should be taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor, swallowed whole, and not crushed or chewed. For maximum absorption, it should be taken with a full meal. The dosage and duration of treatment vary based on the type and severity of the infection. It is crucial to complete the entire course of treatment, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence and resistance.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include nausea, headache, diarrhea, stomach pain, common cold symptoms, blurred vision, dizziness, fatigue, and menstrual disorders. Serious side effects, though rare, warrant immediate medical attention:

• Liver problems: Symptoms like yellowing of eyes or skin (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools, severe lack of appetite, or persistent vomiting.
• Heart failure: Symptoms such as shortness of breath, swelling of feet/ankles/legs, sudden weight gain, or increased tiredness.
• Nerve problems (neuropathy): Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the limbs.
• Hearing loss: Temporary or permanent changes in hearing.
• Allergic reactions: Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.

Precautions

Canditral 100 Capsule is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to itraconazole or other azole antifungals, and in those with a history of heart failure. Caution is advised for patients with liver or kidney disease, and liver function monitoring may be recommended during treatment. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential risks; reliable contraception should be used by women of childbearing potential. Alcohol consumption should be avoided or limited as it may increase the risk of liver problems. This medication can cause dizziness or blurred vision, so patients should avoid driving or operating machinery until they know how it affects them. Canditral 100 Capsule can interact with many other medications, including certain antacids, anticoagulants, corticosteroids, antihistamines, cholesterol-lowering drugs, and specific heart medications. It is important to inform the doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements being taken. Antacids should not be taken within 2 hours of Canditral 100 Capsule.

Storage

Store Canditral 100 Capsule at room temperature, below 30°C, and away from excess heat, direct light, and moisture. Keep it out of the reach of children.

CANDITRAL 100 CAP by GLENMARK LABORATORIES: Frequently Asked Questions

Canditral 100 Capsule is an antifungal medication primarily used to treat various fungal infections in the body. It contains Itraconazole as its active ingredient.

What is Canditral 100 Capsule used for?

Canditral 100 Capsule is used to treat a range of fungal infections, including those affecting the mouth, throat, vagina, nails (fingernails and toenails), skin (like ringworm, athlete's foot), and internal organs like the lungs. It can also be used for conditions like oral thrush and onychomycosis.

How does Canditral 100 Capsule work?

Canditral 100 Capsule works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, a vital component of fungal cell membranes. By weakening and damaging the fungal cell membrane, it prevents the fungi from growing and multiplying, ultimately leading to their death and clearing the infection.

What is the usual dosage for Canditral 100 Capsule?

The dosage and duration of treatment with Canditral 100 Capsule depend on the type and location of the fungal infection, as well as your response to treatment. It should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily, with a full meal to ensure maximum absorption. Capsules should be swallowed whole. For certain severe infections or life-threatening situations, a loading dose might be prescribed.

What are the possible side effects of Canditral 100 Capsule?

Common side effects may include nausea, headache, stomach pain, diarrhea, dizziness, blurred vision, fatigue, and menstrual disorders. More serious, though rare, side effects can include liver problems (signs like yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, severe lack of appetite), heart failure symptoms (such as shortness of breath, swelling of feet/ankles), nerve problems (tingling or numbness), and hearing loss. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, or any signs of an allergic reaction, contact your doctor immediately.

Is Canditral 100 Capsule safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Canditral 100 Capsule is strongly contraindicated during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the unborn baby and can lead to severe birth defects. Women of childbearing age are advised to use effective contraception during treatment and for two months after stopping the medicine. During breastfeeding, there is limited data, and it is generally considered probably unsafe as a small amount of the medicine can pass into breast milk and potentially harm the baby. It is advised to consult your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks.

Can Canditral 100 Capsule be taken with other medications?

Itraconazole, the active ingredient in Canditral 100 Capsule, has a high potential for clinically important drug interactions. It can interact with a wide range of medications, including certain allergy medicines, cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins like atorvastatin, lovastatin, simvastatin), medicines for irregular heartbeats (like quinidine, disopyramide), migraine medicines, and some blood thinners. Additionally, antacids or gastric acid suppressors should not be taken within 2 hours of Canditral 100 Capsule, as they can reduce its absorption. Always inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal supplements you are taking to avoid potentially serious interactions.

What precautions should be taken?

Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart failure or any other heart conditions, liver or kidney disease, or a weakened immune system. Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medicine as it may increase the risk of liver damage and can worsen side effects like dizziness. Canditral 100 Capsule may cause dizziness or blurred vision; if you experience these, avoid driving or operating machinery. Your doctor may perform liver function tests before and during treatment, especially for prolonged courses.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of Canditral 100 Capsule, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if your symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning and to reduce the risk of drug resistance.

How should Canditral 100 Capsule be stored?

Store Canditral 100 Capsule in a cool, dry place, typically below 25°C or 30°C. Protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of reach of children and pets. Ensure the medicine is used before its expiry date.