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Itraconazole

Antifungal

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What is itraconazole?

Itraconazole (also called Sporanox®) is used to treat fungal infections. It is available as a 100-mg blue-and-pink capsule and as a clear yellowish liquid taken by mouth.

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Possible side effects

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Stomach upset

Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, swelling of the face or neck.

Not all patients who take itraconazole will experience these side effects. Common side effects are bolded, but there may be others. Please report all suspected side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.

Find more information on side effects.

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Possible late effects

  • Feeling dizzy
  • Diarrhea
  • Temporary changes in liver function
  • Rash
  • Itching
  • Fever
  • Headache

These are the most common side effects, but there may be others. Please report all side effects to the doctor or nurse.

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Tips for patients and families

Be sure to discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist. 

  • Store itraconazole at room temperature. Do not refrigerate the liquid.
  • Itraconazole may affect the way many other medicines work. These medicines include:
    • Warfarin
    • Ritonavir
    • Oral midazola
    • Cholesterol-lowering medicines
    • Digoxin
    • Medicines used to supress the immune system in transplant patients: cyclosporine, sirolimus, and tacrolimus
    • Methylprednisolone
    • Oral medicines for diabetes
    • These and other chemotherapy medicines: vincristine, vinblastine, etoposide, doxorubicin, daunorubicin, idarubicin, mitoxantrone, ifosfamide, and cyclophosphamide.
  • Several medicines can affect how itraconazole works. These medicines include:
    • Antacids
    • Phenytoin
    • Phenobarbital
    • Didanosine
    • Isoniazid
    • Rifampin
    • Omeprazole
    • Ranitidine
    • Famotidine
  • Always give a complete list of medicines you are taking to your doctor or pharmacist. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new vitamins, herbals, or other medicines while you are taking itraconazole.
  • During long-term treatment, blood will be drawn to check for changes in liver function and to check levels of potassium and itraconazole in the blood.
  • If you have increased fatigue, nausea, vomiting, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or pale stool, tell your doctor right away. These symptoms could mean that itraconazole is severely affecting your liver function.
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Always check the medication label. Many medicines look the same. Do not take any new medicine, including over-the counter medicines or supplements, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to do in the case of a missed dose, allergic reaction, or medical emergency. 

This information is not intended to be a complete guide and is not a substitute for talking with your provider. Medicine names, appearance, formulas, or availability may vary by clinic location. Always follow the instructions given by your care team.

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Reviewed: June 2024