Fungal Infections: Risks of Oral Antifungals
Topic Overview
Before you decide to take an oral antifungal medicine to treat a Reference fungal infection Opens New Window such as Reference athlete's foot Opens New Window or a Reference fungal nail infection Opens New Window, you and your doctor will want to consider the possible risks. Depending on the medicine and your risk factors, some antifungal medicines may:
- Affect liver or kidney function.
- Cause liver damage or failure, particularly when combined with alcohol or certain medicines.
- Weaken the heart's ability to contract, leading to Reference heart failure Opens New Window.
- Cause dangerous side effects when combined with many different common medicines.
During oral antifungal treatment, your doctor may require blood tests to check your kidney and liver function.
Possible mild side effects caused by antifungal medicines include stomach upset, headaches, and skin rash.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference June 27, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
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