Itraconazole

[Nanny49]

Been taking this since November 2016. Suddenly showing symptoms of CHF. Consultant says to stop taking, phone him tomorrow and he may need to seeme on Friday. Anyone else had similar problems?

[Hidden]

I took that for 5-6 years without problems but it's looking like I'll have to go back on it (worsening symptoms, raised IgE, etc), & this time there seems to be much more caution about prescribing it. I'm wondering if they know something now that they didn't then? Does the information leaflet say it can cause cardiac problems? What a worry for you. I hope you can see him on Fri.

[Nanny49 in reply to Hidden]

Wow - that's a long time. To be fair, I've been fine on it until last 2 weeks. Hopefully it will resolve quickly i di hope your problems with it are sorted quickly too. Thanks for your response

[PMRPete]

Heart failure

Following reports of heart failure, caution is advised when prescribing itraconazole to patients at high risk of heart failure. Those at risk include:

patients receiving high doses and longer treatment courses;

older patients and those with cardiac disease;

patients with chronic lung disease (including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) associated with pulmonary hypertension;

patients receiving treatment with negative inotropic drugs, e.g. calcium channel blockers.

Itraconazole should be avoided in patients with ventricular dysfunction or a history of heart failure unless the infection is serious.

evidence.nhs.uk/formulary/b...

[Nanny49 in reply to PMRPete]

Thank you for this. Does make you wonder why they take risks. Hopefully it will resolve now I've stopped it.