Fungilin lozenges are used to treat thrush (fungal infection) in your mouth and throat or gut. Thrush is caused by a yeast fungus called candida. Candida doesn’t always cause symptoms. Most people have candida present in their mouth without experiencing any problems. But, Candida can cause problems when there is a change in the microbes (tiny living particles) living inside the mouth. This reduces the number of good bacteria and allows the yeast fungus to grow and multiply. This can cause pain or burning in the mouth, making easting and drinking difficult. Read more about thrush in your mouth and throat.
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Fungilin lozenges
Also called Amphotericin B lozenges
Key points about Fungilin lozenges
- Fungilin lozenges are used to treat thrush in your mouth and throat or gut.
- Thrush is common in older people with dentures and in people with weakened immune systems.
- Find out how to use Fungilin lozenges safely and possible side effects.
- The dose of Fungilin lozenges is 1 lozenge, dissolved in the mouth 4 times a day.
- Continue using Fungilin lozenges until the course is finished, or for 2 days after symptoms go away. This will help to clear up your infection completely.
- Always use Fungilin lozenges exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you.
- Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.
Timing: Take Fungilin lozenges at about the same time each day, after meals and at bedtime. Suck the lozenge and allow it to dissolve slowly in your mouth.
Dentures: If you wear dentures, take them out while sucking the lozenge. This allows the medicine to reach where the dentures normally fit. Before replacing your dentures, clean them thoroughly.
Teeth staining: Fungilin lozenges may cause yellowing of your teeth. If this happens, brushing your teeth will remove it.
Missed dose: If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time you would normally take your next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.
Side effects with Fungilin lozenges are very rare. Often side effects improve as your body gets used to the new medicine. Fungilin lozenges can cause nausea (feeling sick), vomiting (being sick), stomach upset or diarrhoea (runny poos). This usually settles after a few days but tell your doctor if troublesome.
Tell your doctor immediately or phone Healthline 0800 611 116 if you develop signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as skin rash, itching, swelling of your lips, face and mouth, or difficulty breathing.
Read more about medicines and side effects and reporting a reaction you think might be a side effect.
The following link has more information on Fungilin lozenges:
Amphotericin (lozenge)(external link) NZ Formulary Patient Information
References
- Amphotericin B (oromucosal)(external link) NZ Formulary
- Common issues in paediatric oral health(external link) BPAC, NZ, 2010
Credits: Sandra Ponen, Pharmacist, Healthify He Puna Waiora. Healthify is brought to you by Health Navigator Charitable Trust.
Reviewed by: Maya Patel, MPharm PGDipClinPharm, Auckland
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