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Voriconazole (vor-i-KAWN-a-zole) (Vfend®) What is this medication used for? Voriconazole is an antifungal used to prevent or treat fungal infections.
What does it look like? • Liquid How is it given? • By mouth (oral or po)
Special instructions • If the medicine is taken by mouth, it should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before eating and at least 1 hour after eating. • Store the medicine at room temperature. • This medication may decrease alertness. Be careful when riding a bike, playing sports, or driving. • Do not drive at night while taking this medication • Blood work will be done often. • This medicine increases sensitivity to sunlight, making it easier to get a sunburn. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. • Bright lights may be irritating, so wear sunglasses when necessary. • If this medication is taken for extended periods, eye exams may be required; discuss vision changes with your healthcare provider. • Do not become pregnant, father a child, or breastfeed while taking this drug. It may be important to use birth control while taking this medicine and for several months after treatment is completed.
• Into the vein (IV) or venous access device What are the common side effects? • Changes in vision (blurred, spots, or floaters) • Pain in eyes or head caused by bright lights (photophobia) • Diarrhea • Nausea or vomiting • Headache • Dizziness • Dry mouth • Flushing • Skin sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity) • Changes in heartbeat What are the less common side effects? • Fever or chills • Flu-like symptoms • Seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist (hallucinations) • Confusion • Loss of appetite • Allergic reaction, which may include rash, hives, itching, wheezing, or difficulty breathing • Extreme tiredness (fatigue) • Pain in the upper right part of the stomach • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) • Chest pain or tightness • Swelling of arms, legs, hands, or feet (peripheral edema)
Notes from Your Healthcare Team
Not all of the possible side effects of this medicine and precautions related to taking it are covered in this information sheet. For a complete list of side effects and precautions, ask your healthcare professional (doctor, nurse, pharmacist) for a manufacturer’s package insert or another reference.
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