Diflucan, also known as fluconazole, is a common, broad-spectrum antifungal medication. It’s most commonly used to treat yeast infections and other fungal infections of the mouth (thrush), throat, and skin. Although diflucan is not typically prescribed as an antibiotic, it works much in the same way to destroy bacteria.
If you’re reading this because you and your doctor are considering whether or not diflucan should be your next treatment option for acne or another condition, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know about diflucan and how it can be part of your plan for beating blemishes.
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What is diflucan?
Diflucan is a member of the antifungal family of medications called fluconazole. The drug works by disrupting the growth of fungal and bacterial cells. Specifically, it inhibits an enzyme that is essential for the cell wall formation in fungi and certain bacteria. As a result, the organisms die.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved diflucan in 1995 and it has been used to treat or prevent fungal infections since then. Common fungal infections that may be treated with diflucan include infections of the fingernails or toenails, vaginal yeast infections, and oral thrush in infants.
Diflucan is also often prescribed to people who are receiving treatments for cancer and who have a weakened immune system.
When you should not take diflucan
Do not take diflucan if you are allergic to fluconazole or any other ingredients in the drug. This can be a very serious allergic reaction.
If you are taking diflucan to treat a yeast infection of the mouth or throat, do not take the medication if you have a fever, have recently taken antibiotics, or have had recent surgery.
It is not safe for you to take diflucan if you are pregnant. Diflucan is also not safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Diflucan can be dangerous for children less than two months old.
How does diflucan work to treat acne?
The mechanism behind diflucan’s acne-treating power is due to its antifungal properties. As we stated earlier, the drug inhibits the enzyme that helps the growth of certain types of cells. While this is happening in the fungal cells, it is also happening in your acne-causing bacteria.
Since diflucan attacks both bacteria and fungi, it can be used to treat both types of breakouts.
Specifically, researchers have found that diflucan works best against the bacteria called P. acnes when used in combination with other acne treatment methods, such as topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or topical or oral antibiotics.
Diflucan is not recommended as a first-line treatment for acne because it takes at least two weeks to start having an effect.
Diflucan side effects you should know about
Diflucan has a relatively small list of potential side effects, and most of them are gastrointestinal related.
- Will make your mouth a bit dry, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout your treatment.
- May cause headaches, fatigue, and dizziness in certain people.
- May increase your risk of sunburn and sun-related skin damage, so it is important to wear sunscreen.
- May increase your risk of certain types of yeast infections in the body, so be aware of the symptoms and get checked out by a doctor if you think you have an infection.
- Can make the symptoms of the flu worse.
Is Diflucan an Effective Acne Treatment?
Diflucan is a great option for individuals who want a medication that can treat both their acne and any fungal infections they may have. Acne-fighting abilities aside, diflucan also has a long-lasting effect, so you won’t have to worry about taking it multiple times a day.
The best way to use diflucan to treat acne is with the help of your dermatologist. Diflucan is most effective when used in combination with other acne treatments.
For best results, dermatologists recommend using diflucan in conjunction with topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or topical or oral antibiotics. Combining diflucan with one of these other acne-fighting methods is what can really help you achieve clear skin.
Diflucan may not be the best choice for individuals who have sensitive skin and cannot tolerate any of the potential side effects.
Final word: Is Diflucan Worth a Try?
As you can see from this article, diflucan is a pretty powerful medication. It can treat acne and most types of fungal infections, and it takes effect pretty quickly.
Diflucan is not recommended as a first-line treatment method, but it is a great addition to your skincare routine if you have tried everything else and are still struggling with acne.
Diflucan could be the solution you’ve been looking for.
There are many reasons someone might want to take diflucan. It can treat a range of fungal infections, and it can also be used to prevent or treat bacterial infections. You may want to take diflucan if you are dealing with a yeast infection and need urgent treatment, or you may want to take it as a preventative measure if you have a weakened immune system.
