Used For:

• Oral antifungal agent

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to itraconazole or other azole antifungalsSevere liver disease (risk of hepatotoxicity)Heart failure or history of cardiomyopathy (can cause negative inotropic effect)Pregnancy (especially first trimester) — avoid unless benefit outweighs riskConcomitant use with drugs that prolong QT interval or are CYP3A4 substrates leading to toxicity

Side Effects:

• Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal painHeadache, dizzinessMild fatigue or malaiseRash or mild skin reactions

Precautions:

• Take with food to enhance absorption.Monitor liver function tests during prolonged therapy.Avoid alcohol (hepatotoxic risk).Use cautiously in elderly patients or those with renal impairment.Drug interactions:Avoid cisapride, pimozide, dofetilide, quinidine (risk of arrhythmia)May increase serum levels of warfarin, cyclosporine, digoxin, statinsFor nail infections, therapy is long-term; monitor for liver function.

Dietary Restrictions:

• Take with a full meal for better absorption.Avoid grapefruit juice (can affect metabolism of itraconazole).Limit alcohol to reduce liver toxicity risk.Maintain adequate hydration.