AF 150 Tablet (Fluconazole 150mg)

AF 150 Tablet (Fluconazole 150mg) is an antifungal medication identified by its brand name, AF 150, with the active ingredient Fluconazole at a strength of 150 mg. It is manufactured by Systopic Laboratories Pvt. Ltd., based in India, and is available as an uncoated dispersible tablet (DT) or standard tablet. The product is typically packaged in a strip containing 1 tablet, designed for single-dose or short-term treatment of fungal infections. Its product code may vary by region, but it is commonly recognized in pharmacies as AF 150, a prescription-only medication intended for targeted antifungal therapy.

Intended Use

AF 150 Tablet is an antifungal medication used to treat a variety of fungal and yeast infections, including:

• Vaginal candidiasis (vaginal yeast infections)

• Oropharyngeal and esophageal candidiasis (thrush, oral thrush)

• Systemic candidiasis (affecting blood, brain, heart, eyes, or other parts)

• Cryptococcal meningitis (fungal infection of the brain and spinal cord)

• Urinary tract infections caused by Candida

• Fungal infections of the skin, nails, and other parts of the body

• Prevention of fungal infections in immunocompromised patients (e.g., those with HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or bone marrow transplant)

It is also used to treat conditions like tinea pedis, tinea corporis, tinea cruris, and cutaneous candidiasis.

Dosage and Administration

• Recommended Dosage:

  • Vaginal candidiasis: one tablet (150 mg) taken once.

  • Recurrent vaginal thrush: 150 mg once every 72 hours for 3 doses, then 150 mg once weekly for 6 months.

  • Candida in the oropharynx: 150 mg once per day for seven to fourteen days.

  • Systemic candidiasis or cryptococcal meningitis: 200-800 mg daily, depending on severity, for several weeks.

  • Prevention in immunocompromised patients: 50-400 mg daily until immune recovery.

  • Tinea infections: 150 mg once weekly for 2-4 weeks (Candida infections may require fewer doses).

  • A doctor determines the dosage for children based on age, weight, and the type of infection. Not recommended for children under 16 or adults over 60 without medical advice.

• Administration:

  • Swallow the tablet whole with water or dissolve the dispersible tablet (DT) in a glass of water before taking.

  • Can be taken with or without food.

  • Take at evenly spaced times for maximum benefit.

  • Do not stop treatment early, even if symptoms improve, to prevent recurrence or resistance.

• Missed Dose: Take as soon as remembered unless it’s nearly time for the next dose. Do not double the dose.

How It Works

AF 150 Tablet (Fluconazole 150mg) contains Fluconazole, a triazole antifungal that inhibits the enzyme 14-alpha-demethylase, which is essential for producing ergosterol, a key component of fungal cell membranes. By disrupting ergosterol synthesis, Fluconazole weakens the fungal cell membrane, leading to cell death or inhibited growth, effectively treating the infection. It typically starts working within 1 day, with symptom improvement in 3-7 days for vaginal candidiasis.

Safety Information

• Warnings:

  • Do not take if allergic to Fluconazole or other azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, posaconazole).

  • Avoid in patients with rare hereditary conditions like galactose intolerance, Lapp lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption due to lactose content.

  • Use with caution in patients with liver, kidney, or heart problems, abnormal electrolyte levels (potassium, calcium, magnesium), or a history of severe skin reactions.

  • May cause dizziness or seizures; avoid driving or operating machinery if affected.

• Side Effects:

  • Common (up to 1 in 10 people): Headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, rash, altered taste.

  • Uncommon: Dizziness, seizures, dry skin, dark urine, bruising, or bleeding.

  • Serious (rare): Severe allergic reactions (blistering rash, swelling of lips/face), liver damage (yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine), adrenal insufficiency (tiredness, muscle weakness, weight loss), or low blood cell counts. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.

• Overdose: Symptoms may include hallucinations or mental/mood changes. Seek emergency medical help (call 111 or go to A&E).

Ingredients

• Active Ingredient: Fluconazole 150 mg

Storage and Handling

• Store at room temperature (10-30°C / 50-86°F) in a dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight.

• Keep out of reach of children.

• Do not use after the expiry date (last day of the month indicated on the package).

• Dispose of unused or expired tablets through a pharmacy take-back program, not via wastewater or household waste.

FAQs

1. Can AF 150 Tablet be taken with other medications?

   • Inform your doctor about all medications, including prescription, over the counter, and herbal supplements, as Fluconazole interacts with many drugs (e.g., warfarin, phenytoin, cyclosporine, antidiabetic drugs, antihypertensives). Avoid grapefruit juice, as it may increase side effects.

2. How long does it take to work?

   • For vaginal yeast infections, symptoms may improve within 1-3 days and resolve in 7 days. Other infections may require weeks of treatment. Contact your doctor if no improvement is seen.

3. Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

   • Avoid during pregnancy unless advised by a doctor, as it may cause harm to the fetus. Single-dose use is generally safe for breastfeeding, but repeated doses are not recommended.

4. Can I drink alcohol while taking AF 150 Tablet?

   • No specific interaction with alcohol is noted, but alcohol may increase dizziness. Consult your doctor.

5. What if I experience severe side effects?

   • Stop taking the tablet and seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe rash, swelling, or signs of liver damage (yellowing skin/eyes).

6. Is a prescription required?

   • Yes, AF 150 Tablet typically requires a doctor’s prescription.