Fluconazole is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections in dogs. Most of our dogs will never need to take it, but if your dog does contract a systemic fungal infection, fluconazole will become part of your routine for weeks to years.
When Fluconazole Is Given to Dogs
Fluconazole (brand name Diflucan) is a prescription medication that is not FDA-approved for use in dogs. It is used off-label by veterinarians on a regular basis for systemic fungal infections that affect a large portion of the dog’s body. It is especially useful because it can penetrate most body systems and organs, reaching the infection wherever it lies.
Some diseases that may be treated with fluconazole include:
- Aspergillosis
- Candidiasis
- Coccidioidomycosis (Valley Fever)
- Cryptococcosis
- Blastomycosis
- Dermatophytosis (ringworm)
- Histoplasmosis
- Malassezia dermatitis
- Severe yeast infections
Fungal infections can be difficult to treat. Depending on your dog’s condition, he may need to take fluconazole for weeks, months, or even years to clear the infection. Some fungal infections require lifelong treatment.
Fluconazole Side Effects in Dogs
Overall fluconazole is well tolerated by dogs. Side effects to watch for include:
- Poor appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Hair loss
- Dry skin
- Discharge from the eyes
- Lethargy
- Liver toxicity
- Jaundice
How Fluconazole for Dogs Works
Fluconazole is a fungistatic, which means it stops fungi from growing and reproducing. It stops fungal cells from producing the ergosterol they need for their cell walls. This weakens the cells and causes them to weaken.
It is ultimately the dog’s immune system that kills the damaged fungal cells, which means that fluconazole may not be a good fit for a dog who is immuno-compromised.
Fluconazole is usually given twice a day by mouth. It comes as a tablet or liquid formulation. It takes a week or two to reach stable blood levels in your dog’s body, so results take time.
Fluconazole can be given with or without food. If your dog has been taking it on an empty stomach and experiences stomach upset, try giving it with a small meal.
Your veterinarian will recommend regular bloodwork while your dog is on fluconazole. This is to monitor his liver and kidney values to make sure these organs are functioning normally.
If your dog is experiencing side effects, stop giving the fluconazole and call your veterinarian. The fluconazole dosage for dogs is usually 10 to 20 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg), so your veterinarian may be able to adjust your dog’s dose so that he still benefits with fewer side effects. As this is a prescription medication that can have serious health effects, you should never give your dog fluconazole that was intended for another family member.
Giving with Other Medications
Fluconazole can interact with many other medications. Tell your veterinarian all other medications and supplements that your dog is currently taking so he or she can recommend the safest plan for your dog. Fluconazole makes a variety of medications and compounds, including CBD, stronger, which increases the risk of side effects for your dog.
