Anti-Fungal Treatment in AIDS

Because of their weakened immune system, patients with AIDS are vulnerable to a host of illnesses. Amongst these are fungal infections, which can be treated with the anti-fungal medication Diflucan.

History

In 1990, the Food and Drug Administration approved the use of Diflucan for the treatment of fungal infections that resulted from AIDS. The drug, manufactured by New York-based Pfizer, is still used to fight infections in AIDS patients.

Benefits

The use of Diflucan to treat these fungal-related ailments helps AIDS patients live longer and more comfortably.

Function

In AIDS patients, Diflucan is used to treat cryptococcal meningitis, which is a fungal infection that causes swelling of the brain and can be fatal without proper treatment. In addition, the drug is used to treat candidiasis, which are painful sores in the mouth and throat caused by fungus.

Taking Diflucan

Diflucan can be taken orally, or intravenously in a hospital setting. The oral version is available in tablet or liquid form, and is typically given for less severe cases of candidiasis; the intravenous mode of delivery is confined to cases of candidiasis where patients are not able to swallow or are being treated for cryptococcal meningitis.

Considerations

Diflucan is known to cause side effects in patients such as nausea, headache and abdominal pain as well as allergic reactions to the drug.

Resources

• US Department of Health and Human Services

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