Fluconazole is an antifungal medication used to treat infections caused by fungus, such as yeast infections. It works by stopping the growth of fungus in the body.
Uses of Fluconazole
1. Treating Vaginal Yeast Infections
One of the most common uses of fluconazole is treating vaginal yeast infections caused by Candida albicans. A single dose of 150 mg is usually effective for curing a vaginal yeast infection. The medication starts working within 24 hours to relieve symptoms like itching, burning and discharge. Most symptoms disappear within 2-3 days of taking the fluconazole pill.
2. Preventing Fungal Infections in Cancer Patients
Fluconazole is also used to prevent fungal infections in patients with weak immune systems, such as cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. In these cases, fluconazole is given in lower doses over longer periods of time to prevent fungal infections from occurring in the first place.
3. Treating other Fungal Infections
Fluconazole can be used to treat other fungal infections such as thrush, cryptococcal meningitis, and esophageal candidiasis. The dosage depends on the type and severity of the infection. For thrush, a single dose of 150 mg is usually curative.
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Fluconazole Prices at Nigerian Pharmacies
If you’ve been prescribed fluconazole to treat a fungal infection, you’ll want the best price. In Nigeria, fluconazole is available as an over-the-counter medication at most pharmacies, so you have options.
1. Locally-Owned Pharmacies
Your neighborhood pharmacy is always a good first stop. Locally-owned pharmacies can often negotiate the best deals from suppliers and pass the savings onto you. You may be able to find fluconazole for as little as ₦500-₦1000 per 150mg dose at one of these pharmacies.
2. Large Chains
Major pharmacy chains like Healthplus, Medplus, and Sigma Pharmacy offer the convenience of many locations and extended hours. However, their higher overhead costs mean higher prices, around ₦1000-₦1500 per dose of fluconazole. Still, chains frequently offer sales and coupons which can help lower the cost.
3. Online Pharmacies
More and more Nigerians are turning to online pharmacies for lower medication prices and delivery direct to their door. Reputable sites like Jumia Pharmacy, Konga Health, and PharmaDeko often have the best deals on fluconazole, from ₦700-₦1200 per dose. Be wary of sites that seem too good to be true, though, as some unregulated pharmacies sell counterfeit or expired drugs.
Factors Affecting Fluconazole Cost in Nigeria
The cost of fluconazole can vary quite a bit in Nigeria depending on several factors. The most significant factors are the dosage, brand, and whether you buy it over-the-counter or with a prescription.
1. Dosage
Fluconazole comes in different dosages, typically 50mg, 100mg, 150mg and 200mg capsules or tablets. The higher the dosage, the more expensive it will be. Most pharmacies in Nigeria sell the 50mg and 100mg capsules over-the-counter for a few hundred Naira. The 150mg and 200mg dosages typically require a prescription and will cost between ₦500 to ₦1500 per capsule.
2. Brand
Fluconazole is sold under various brand names in Nigeria, including Diflucan, Fluzole and Flucoral. Diflucan, manufactured by Pfizer, is usually the most expensive. Generic versions of fluconazole, often just called ‘fluconazole’, are typically the most affordable.
3. Over-the-Counter vs Prescription
Lower dosages of fluconazole, like 50mg and 100mg, can typically be purchased over-the-counter without a prescription in Nigeria. This is often the most budget-friendly option.
However, higher dosages usually require a doctor’s prescription, which will increase the overall cost. See a doctor if your infection requires a higher dosage, or if your symptoms don’t clear up with over-the-counter fluconazole.
Saving on Fluconazole – Tips and Strategies
1. Compare Prices at Different Pharmacies
Fluconazole, like most medications, can vary in price from one pharmacy to another. Shop around at different pharmacies to find the best deal. Big chain stores like Walmart, Target, and Kroger often have lower prices than smaller independent pharmacies.
2. Look for Coupons and Patient Assistance Programs
Search online for coupons and discount cards for fluconazole. Some pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid offer discount programs you can sign up for to save on select medications.
4. Buy the Generic Version
Fluconazole is available as a generic drug called fluconazole. The generic version works the same as the brand name drug Diflucan but typically costs much less. Ask your doctor to prescribe fluconazole instead of Diflucan.
5. Compare Prices for Fluconazole Online
You may be able to find lower fluconazole prices from international online pharmacies in Canada, India or other countries. However, buying from foreign pharmacies does come with risks like counterfeit or substandard drugs.
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FAQs on fluconazole price in nigeria
Here are some common questions about fluconazole price:
1. How much does fluconazole cost?
The average price for a single 150mg fluconazole pill is around $10. The price will decrease when buying larger quantities. A weekly course of treatment may cost $20-$50 total. The generic version tends to be cheaper than the brand name Diflucan. Check with your insurance provider to see if fluconazole is covered under your plan and if there are any price breaks when using their preferred pharmacies.
2. Are there any ways to save money on fluconazole?
Yes, there are a few options to lower the cost of fluconazole:
- Use a discount card from sites like GoodRx or SingleCare. They can save you up to 80% on fluconazole at many pharmacies.
- Ask your doctor for a higher dose pill that you can cut in half. For example, get the 200mg pill instead of two 100mg pills.
- Buy the generic version instead of Diflucan. Generics have the same active ingredient but cost much less.
- Check discount pharmacies like Costco and Sam’s Club, which often have lower prices for those without insurance.
- Ask your doctor for a shorter course of treatment or lower dosage, if medically appropriate. The less you need to take, the lower the total cost will be.
3. Does insurance cover fluconazole?
Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, provide coverage for fluconazole, especially if prescribed to treat an infection. The level of coverage will depend on your specific plan and benefits. You will likely still need to pay a copay for each fill, but insurance can lower your out-of-pocket costs for fluconazole.