terconazole

[ter-kon´ah-zōl] an imidazole derivative used as a topical antifungal agent in treatment of candidiasis" >vulvovaginal candidiasis.

terconazole

(ter-kon-a-zole) terconazole,

Terazol-3

(trade name),

Terazol-7

(trade name)

Classification

Therapeutic: antifungals
Pregnancy Category: C

Indications

Treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis.

Action

Affects the permeability of the fungal cell wall, allowing leakage of cellular contents. Not active against bacteria.

Therapeutic effects

Inhibited growth and death of susceptible Candida, with decrease in accompanying symptoms of vulvovaginitis (vaginal burning, itching, discharge).

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: 5–16% is systemically absorbed following intravaginal administration.Distribution: Unknown. Action is primarily local.Metabolism and Excretion: Negligible with local application.Half-life: Not applicable.

Time/action profile (plasma concentrations)

ROUTE	ONSET	PEAK	DURATION
Intravag	unknown	6.6 hr	unknown

Contraindications/Precautions

Contraindicated in: Hypersensitivity to active ingredients, additives, or preservatives.Use Cautiously in: Obstetric / / Lactation: Safety not established.

Adverse Reactions/Side Effects

Dermatologic

Toxic epidermal necrolysis (life-threatening)

Gastrointestinal

abdominal pain

Genitourinary

dysmenorrhea
irritation
itching
vulvovaginal burning

Miscellaneous

anaphylaxis (life-threatening)
fever

Interactions

Drug-Drug interaction

Not known.

Route/Dosage

Vaginal (Adults) Vaginal cream—1 applicatorful (5 g) of 0.4% cream at bedtime for 7 days or 1 applicatorful (5 g) of 0.8% cream at bedtime for 3 days. Vaginal suppositories—1 suppository (80 mg) at bedtime for 3 days.

Availability (generic available)

Vaginal cream: 0.4%, 0.8% Vaginal suppositories: 80 mg

Nursing implications

Nursing assessment

Inspect involved areas of skin and mucous membranes before and frequently during therapy. Increased skin irritation may indicate sensitization and warrant discontinuation of medication.

Potential Nursing Diagnoses

Risk for infection (Indications)
Risk for impaired skin integrity (Indications)

Implementation

Consult health care professional for proper cleansing technique before applying medication.
Vaginal: Applicators are supplied for vaginal administration.

Patient/Family Teaching

Instruct patient to apply medication as directed for full course of therapy, even if feeling better. Therapy should be continued during menstrual period.
- Advise patient to avoid using tampons or douches while using this product.
- Instruct patient on proper use of vaginal applicator. Medication should be inserted high into the vagina at bedtime. Instruct patient to remain recumbent for at least 30 min after insertion. Advise use of sanitary napkins to prevent staining of clothing or bedding.
- Advise patient to consult health care professional regarding intercourse during therapy. Vaginal medication may cause minor skin irritation in sexual partner. Advise patient to refrain from sexual contact during therapy. Advise patient that this medication may weaken latex or rubber contraceptive products. Another method of contraception should be used during treatment.
- Advise patient to report to health care professional increased skin irritation or lack of response to therapy. A second course may be necessary if symptoms persist.
- Advise patient to thoroughly clean the applicator after each use.
- Advise patient to notify health care professional if signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis (hives, shortness of breath, facial swelling) or rash occurs.

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

Decrease in skin irritation and vaginal discomfort. Therapeutic response is usually seen after 1 wk. Diagnosis should be reconfirmed with smears or cultures before a second course of therapy to rule out other pathogens associated with vulvovaginitis. Recurrent vaginal infections may be a sign of systemic illness.