The reduced ability of the immune system to fight infection puts a recovering patient at higher risk of getting a serious fungus infection. This may take the form of thrush or, in women, vaginal yeast infections.

Purpose:
Various drugs are used to treat or prevent fungus infections.

How to take:

• Liquid - swish and swallow.

• Troche or Lozenge - dissolve in the mouth.

• The liquid or the lozenge should be taken after meals and other medications to allow liquids and lozenges to work in the mouth.

• Vaginal suppository or cream - use as directed.

• The transplant team will determine the proper dosage and length of time to take antifungal medications.

Precautions:

The benefits of taking these medications if a patient is pregnant or breast feeding must be weighed against the potential hazards to her, her fetus, or her infant. A woman should consult the transplant team immediately if she thinks she is pregnant.

Principal side effects:

These include, but are not limited to, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, a metallic taste, and unpleasant mouth sensations.