Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Voriconazole (Vfend) and fluconazole (Diflucan) are both azole antifungals, but they have some key differences. Voriconazole is used to treat more serious fungal infections like invasive aspergillosis and esophageal candidiasis, while fluconazole is commonly used for Candida infections such as vaginal yeast infections and oral thrush. Voriconazole is typically started as an intravenous infusion in a hospital setting before switching to oral forms, whereas fluconazole is often taken as a single oral dose for vaginal yeast infections or daily for other infections. Voriconazole tends to have more side effects, including vision changes and skin sensitivity to light, and it interacts with more medications compared to fluconazole. Additionally, voriconazole is not recommended during pregnancy due to the risk of severe developmental problems in babies, while fluconazole is generally avoided, and only a single dose is allowed for vaginal candidiasis even when used. Both medications can cause liver damage, so you should avoid alcohol while taking them.
Voriconazole (Vfend)
Fluconazole (Diflucan)
Voriconazole (Vfend)
Fluconazole (Diflucan)
Summary of Vfend vs. Diflucan
Summary for Antifungal
Prescription only
Voriconazole (Vfend) is an azole antifungal. It's used in adults and children ages 2 years and older to treat serious fungal infections, including invasive aspergillosis (IA) and esophageal candidiasis (EC). If you have a serious infection that needs voriconazole (Vfend), your healthcare team will typically give you this medication as an intravenous infusion in a hospital setting first. Once your condition improves, they might switch you to voriconazole (Vfend) tablet or oral suspension that's taken by mouth every 12 hours. Some common side effects of voriconazole (Vfend) include vision changes, nausea, and rash.
Summary for Antifungal
Prescription only
Fluconazole (Diflucan) is an azole antifungal. It's used to treat different types ofCandida infections, such as vaginal yeast infections and oral thrush. It can also treat a serious brain infection called cryptococcal meningitis. Oral fluconazole (Diflucan) is available as a tablet and suspension. It's taken by mouth as a one-time dose for vaginal yeast infections; it's typically taken once daily for other types of infections. Fluconazole (Diflucan) is generally well-tolerated, but some people can experience side effects like headache, nausea, and stomach pain. Fluconazole (Diflucan) can raise the risk of liver problems, so you're recommend to avoiding drinking alcohol while taking this medication.