Posaconazole is used to prevent serious fungal infections in people with a weakened ability to fight infection. Posaconazole is also used to treat yeast infections of the mouth and throat including yeast infections that could not be treated successfully with other medications. Posaconazole is in a class of antifungals called triazoles. It works by slowing the growth of fungi that cause infection.
Posaconazole comes as a suspension (liquid) to take by mouth. Each dose should be taken with a full meal or liquid nutritional supplement. When posaconazole is used to prevent fungal infections, it is usually taken three times a day. When posaconazole is used to treat yeast infections of the mouth and throat, it is usually taken once or twice a day. The length of your treatment depends on your general health, the type of infection you have, and how well you respond to this medication. Take posaconazole at around the same times every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take posaconazole exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Shake the liquid well before each use to mix the medication evenly.
Posaconazole comes with a dosing spoon to measure your dose. The spoon should be rinsed thoroughly with water after each use and before storing.
Continue to take posaconazole until your doctor tells you that you should stop, even if you feel better. Do not stop taking posaconazole without talking to your doctor. If you stop taking posaconazole too soon, your infection may not be completely treated.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
fever
headache
chills or shaking
dizziness
weakness
swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
diarrhea
vomiting
stomach pain
constipation
heartburn
weight loss
rash
itching
back or muscle pain
sores on the lips, mouth, or throat
difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
anxiety
increased sweating
nosebleeds
coughing
unusual bruising or bleeding
extreme tiredness
lack of energy
loss of appetite
nausea
pain in the upper right part of the stomach
yellowing of the skin or eyes
flu-like symptoms
dark urine
pale stools
fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
sudden loss of consciousness
shortness of breath
decreased urination
Posaconazole may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Do not freeze this medication. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your body's response to posaconazole.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish taking posaconazole, call your doctor.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Last Reviewed - 09/01/2010
AHFS® Consumer Medication Information. © Copyright, 2012. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland. All Rights Reserved. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized by ASHP.