Product Description

Itraconazole 200 mg Capsule IP is a triazole antifungal medication used to treat various fungal infections, including those of the mouth (oropharyngeal candidiasis), throat (esophageal candidiasis), nails (onychomycosis), skin, and lungs (e.g., aspergillosis, histoplasmosis). 

Fungal infections occur when fungi (e.g., Candida, Aspergillus) invade tissues, often in immunocompromised individuals, and can be contagious or opportunistic. Itraconazole works by disrupting fungal cell membranes, which are vital for their integrity, preventing unwanted entry of substances and leakage of cellular contents. 

Inhibiting ergosterol synthesis weakens these membranes, causing fungal cell death and clearing the infection. It is effective against a broad spectrum of fungi but requires consistent dosing for optimal absorption. Not for bacterial/viral infections or prophylaxis without indication.

Avoid it if you have heart failure, liver disease, or hypersensitivity. Baseline liver function tests (LFTs) are recommended before starting.

Uses

Itraconazole 200 mg Capsules IP are indicated for:

• Oropharyngeal or esophageal candidiasis (mouth/throat thrush)

• Onychomycosis (fungal nail infections of toenails/fingernails)

• Systemic fungal infections (e.g., invasive aspergillosis, blastomycosis, histoplasmosis, or coccidioidomycosis in lungs or other sites)

• Dermatophytoses (e.g., tinea infections of skin, groin, or feet) when topical therapy fails

How it works

Itraconazole 200 mg Capsules contain itraconazole, which inhibits the fungal enzyme lanosterol 14α-demethylase (a cytochrome P450-dependent enzyme, CYP51), blocking the conversion of lanosterol to ergosterol—a key sterol in fungal cell membranes. 

This depletion of ergosterol and accumulation of toxic sterols weakens and damages the cell membrane, increasing permeability. As a result, essential fungal cell components leak out, leading to impaired growth, replication, and eventual cell death (fungicidal or fungistatic depending on the fungus). It has poor activity against bacteria or viruses and minimal impact on human cells due to specificity for fungal CYP51.

Benefits

Itraconazole 200 mg Capsules effectively treat fungal infections of the mouth, throat, nails, skin, or lungs by targeting the root cause—fungal overgrowth—rather than just symptoms. 

It provides sustained relief from itching, pain, discoloration, or respiratory issues, promoting healing of affected tissues (e.g., nail regrowth in 6–12 months). 

Broad-spectrum coverage makes it suitable for both superficial and systemic infections, reducing recurrence when used as prescribed, and improving quality of life in chronic cases like onychomycosis or immunocompromised patients.

How to use

itraconazole capsules 200 mg uses: Take it with food to avoid stomach upset or as advised by the doctor. Swallow the whole tablet with a glass of water. Do not break, crush, or chew it. If you are taking any stomach acid suppressor or have achlorhydria (stomach does not produce hydrochloric acid), itraconazole capsules 200 mg used with cola can help.

Side Effects

Most side effects are mild and resolve after treatment. Common side effects (affecting 1–10% of patients) include:

• Nausea

• Headache

• Diarrhea

• Tiredness or fatigue

• Stomach pain or abdominal discomfort

• Cough, cold-like symptoms, or throat pain (if treating respiratory infections)

• Back pain

Safety Advice

• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol, as it increases the risk of liver toxicity and may worsen side effects like nausea or fatigue.

• Pregnancy: Category C (animal studies show fetal harm; limited human data—teratogenic potential). Contraindicated unless benefits outweigh risks (e.g., life-threatening infections); use effective contraception during and for 1 month after treatment. Inform your doctor if pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

• Breastfeeding: Avoid, as itraconazole passes into breast milk and may cause infant side effects (e.g., liver issues). Pump and discard milk during treatment, plus 1 week after.

• Driving/Operating Machinery: May cause dizziness or fatigue; use caution until effects are known.

Storage Conditions

• Store at a temperature below 30°C (86°F), in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat, and excessive moisture.

FAQs

What is the use of itraconazole capsules 200 mg?

Itraconazole 200 mg Capsule is used to treat fungal infections of the mouth, throat, toenails, fingernails, or lungs. 

Can I take Cap itraconazole 200 mg with Simvastatin?

You are not recommended to take Itraconazole 200mg Capsule with simvastatin as co-administration of these two medicines may cause muscle weakness, unexplained muscle pain or tenderness, dark coloured urine, fever, or flu symptoms. However, please consult a doctor before using itraconazole capsules 200 mg with other medicines.

Is Itraconazole 200 mg Capsule IP safe to use during pregnancy?

No, Itraconazole 200 mg Capsule IP is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the fetus. Also, it is advised to use effective contraceptive measures while taking itraconazole capsules 200 mg and after 2 months of stopping treatment with Itraconazole 200mg capsules. However, please inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before taking itraconazole capsules 200 mg.

Does Capsule Itraconazole 200 mg cause hearing loss?

Itraconazole 200mg Capsule may cause temporary or permanent hearing loss in some people. It is not necessary for everyone taking itraconazole capsules 200 mg to experience this adverse effect. However, if you notice any changes in hearing, stop taking itraconazole capsules 200 mg and consult a doctor immediately.

Can I take antacids with itraconazole capsules 200 mg?

You are advised to take antacids (drugs used to reduce acid in the stomach) such as omeprazole, pantoprazole, and esomeprazole at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after itraconazole capsules 200 mg uses as co-administration of these medicines at the same time may reduce the effectiveness of itraconazole because antacids decrease the absorption and blood levels of itraconazole. However, please consult a doctor before taking other medicines with Itraconazole 200mg Capsule IP.