Itraconazole Kent Pharma Uk (Itraconazole)

Itraconazole is a triazole antifungal that interferes with fungal cell membrane synthesis across several disease families.

• Dermatophytosis: effective in treating skin infections caused by dermatophyte fungi.
• Onychomycosis: clears fungal infection of the nails, improving nail appearance and health.
• Blastomycosis: used for systemic infection caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis.
• Histoplasmosis: treats disseminated disease from Histoplasma capsulatum.
• Coccidioidomycosis: manages infection by Coccidioides species.
• Aspergillosis: employed in therapy of invasive disease caused by Aspergillus spp.

• Itraconazole inhibits the fungal cytochrome P450 enzyme lanosterol 14α‑demethylase, a key step in ergosterol biosynthesis. By blocking ergosterol production, the drug disrupts the integrity of the fungal cell membrane, leading to impaired growth and eventual cell death.

Adverse reactions may occur with itraconazole therapy and are categorized by frequency and severity.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild to moderate upset stomach.
• Vomiting: occasional episodes after dosing.
• Abdominal pain: discomfort in the upper abdomen.
• Headache: transient mild headache.
• Rash: skin redness or itching.
• Taste disturbances: altered taste perception.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Hepatotoxicity: elevated liver enzymes or liver injury.
• Congestive heart failure: fluid retention and reduced cardiac function.
• Severe skin reactions: Stevens‑Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
• QT prolongation: cardiac rhythm disturbances.
• Anaphylaxis: rare severe allergic response.

Before initiating itraconazole, clinicians should consider several safety measures.

• Liver function monitoring: assess baseline enzymes and repeat during therapy.
• Cardiac assessment: avoid in patients with existing heart failure.
• Drug interaction review: evaluate concurrent CYP3A4 substrates or inhibitors.
• Pregnancy and lactation: use only if benefits outweigh potential risks.
• Hypersensitivity check: discontinue if allergic reaction occurs.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25°C in original container, protect from moisture and light.

Itraconazole has a notable interaction profile that requires careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir): may cause toxic levels.
• Certain anti‑arrhythmics (e.g., quinidine): increase risk of cardiac arrhythmias.
• Statins metabolized by CYP3A4 (e.g., simvastatin): heightened myopathy risk.
• Oral contraceptives: reduced efficacy, risk of unintended pregnancy.
• Doxorubicin: enhanced cardiotoxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine): may lower itraconazole exposure.
• Warfarin: potential alteration of anticoagulant effect.
• Phenytoin: may reduce antifungal concentrations.
• Digoxin: possible increase in serum levels.
• Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium: may decrease absorption.