Fungilin Lozenges (amphotericin) are an antifungal treatment designed to be dissolved in the mouth. Predominantly used to treat oral thrush, Fungilin Lozenges may also be used in a variety of other fungal infections in the mouth, tongue, or throat.

Highly effective against Candida, the medication may work similarly on other fungal infections, though for best results a doctor should be consulted first. Fungilin Lozenges destroy the fungi they come into contact with, ultimately causing holes in fungal cell membranes.

The active ingredient in this product is not thought to be absorbed into the bloodstream when taken as a lozenge. It is therefore safe for use while pregnant or breastfeeding. Use in children is somewhat more controversial; some doctors may advise it assuming the child is old enough to take a lozenge without risk of choking, while other doctors prefer alternative products.

How to Use

Fungilin Lozenges are, as the name suggests, lozenges. Standard dosage & administration guidelines are:

• Take one lozenge four times per day.
• Ideally a lozenge will be taken following a meal three times per day and before bed.
• Dentures or any other easily-removed mouth equipment should be removed before each lozenge and thoroughly cleaned before being put back in the mouth.
• For best results each dose should be evenly spaced apart and taken at the same times each day.
• Treatment typically continues for 10 to 15 days.

Significant improvements are usually noticeable within the first few days of treatment, but it's important to complete the full range of treatment to ensure the infection is fully gone and to prevent resistant fungi.

Taking Fungilin Lozenges after meals and removing mouth equipment helps eradicate fungi; fungi will feed on food particles in the mouth and dentures or other equipment blocks the medication's access to some fungi. Thoroughly cleaning mouth equipment will help remove fungi present on it.

Some individuals may be instructed to take lozenges more or less frequently than described above, or otherwise deviate from above guidelines. Doctor instructions should always be followed.

Unused lozenges should be stored in a dry place away from direct light. Leave lozenges in their packaging until it's time to take one. Keep in mind they may be appealing to children or pets; keep out of reach.

Preventing Spread

Fungal infections can be difficult to overcome and often spread to others or back to oneself. Fungilin Lozenges are a big step in the right direction to beating a fungal infection, but here are some other methods patients can utilize to help prevent spread:

• Toothbrushes, kitchen utensils, and similar materials that may contact the infected area are best kept separate from others in the household. If possible they should be disinfected, such as with boiling water, after each use.
• Avoid kissing or otherwise contacting near or on the infected area until the infection is resolved.
• Wash hands thoroughly after handling lozenges or otherwise touching the mouth.
• Take care to cover coughs, sneezes, and other actions that may expel spittle onto other surfaces.

When the infection is gone, oral hygiene can help prevent future recurrences. Brushing and flossing after meals will help. Using a good mouthwash is perhaps the best preventive method. Rinsing the mouth after doses of medication will also help---particularly if using powdered or inhaled steroids.

Potential Side Effects

Side effects from Fungilin Lozenges are rare, and generally restricted to mild irritation in the mouth when a lozenge is taken. Some patients also experience mild gastrointestinal upset, including:

• Mild nausea
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal discomfort

The above symptoms are not cause for concern unless severe or persistent.

Interactions with other medications are very unlikely to occur, but it's always a good idea to double-check with a doctor or pharmacist before taking other medications with Fungilin Lozenges, particularly other medications applied to the mouth.

As mentioned above there are no concerns about taking this product while pregnant or breastfeeding. Do not give Fungilin Lozenges to children without explicit doctor approval.