Tracor

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Tracor

Property Description
Active Ingredient Itraconazole
Primary Form Capsule, Oral Solution
Pharmacological Class Systemic Antifungal Agent, Triazole
General Purpose To halt the growth of fungal infections
Origin Synthetic Derivative

Tracor is a potent, prescription-only medication classified as a systemic antifungal agent and belongs specifically to the triazole antifungal class. It is recognized for its efficacy against a broad range of fungal pathogens, providing a crucial therapeutic option for diseases that require systemic intervention beyond topical treatment.


What Type of Medicine is Tracor (Itraconazole)?

Tracor is an antifungal drug containing the active ingredient Itraconazole, a synthetic compound derived as a nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compound. As a triazole derivative, it is characterized by its lipophilicity, which allows it to concentrate effectively in specific tissues, including the nails and skin, supporting its use in treating persistent mycoses. Itraconazole is a primary agent for treating multiple forms of systemic mycoses.


Composition and Available Forms

Tracor is a single-ingredient product available primarily in oral capsules and as an oral solution, with a sterile solution for intravenous infusion also being available for use in hospitalized patients. The oral solution utilizes specific complexing agents such as hydroxypropyl-eta-cyclodextrin, which is necessary for enhancing the absorption and systemic delivery of the active ingredient, as the lipophilic nature of Itraconazole limits its solubility. The drug’s different formulations, particularly the oral solution, are intended to optimize absorption and drug exposure.


What is the General Purpose of Tracor?

The general purpose of Tracor is to function as a fungistatic agent, effectively suppressing the proliferation and expansion of fungal organisms. It achieves this by disrupting the fungus's structural integrity through the targeted inhibition of ergosterol synthesis, a process essential for maintaining the integrity of the fungal cell membrane. This controlled suppression leads to the therapeutic general benefit of arresting active fungal growth and clearing both superficial and serious, deep-seated fungal diseases throughout the body.

Regulatory References

  1. WHO Essential Medicines List for Itraconazole
  2. Itraconazole: MedlinePlus Drug Information

What side effects are possible with Tracor?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Tracor (Itraconazole) has an officially documented safety profile, with potential effects classified by frequency and grouped into System-Organ Classes (SOC) as defined by regulatory agencies.


Key Adverse Reaction Classifications

Classification Examples of Documented Effects
Very Common (ge 1/10) Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, oedema (swelling), and rash.
Common (1/100 to < 1/10) Headache, dizziness, hypertension, abdominal pain, and fever.
Uncommon Hypersensitivity, cardiac failure, and jaundice.
Not Known (Post-marketing) Acute liver failure, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and heart failure.

Serious Adverse Reactions and Systemic Concerns

The regulatory label highlights critical safety concerns related to major organ systems. The drug carries mandatory warnings regarding Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), as it has a documented negative inotropic effect, and is generally contraindicated for non-life-threatening conditions in patients with a history of CHF. Serious Hepatotoxicity, including fatal acute liver failure, has been reported; some cases have occurred within the first week or month of treatment. Life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias can occur due to drug-drug interactions, leading to QT prolongation.


Population and Exposure Considerations

Use of Tracor is contraindicated in pregnancy for non-life-threatening indications. Caution is noted for older adults due to potential age-related functional decline. The risk of Peripheral Neuropathy is primarily reported in individuals receiving long-term therapy, and certain effects like heart failure may be more frequently reported with higher daily doses. Patients with renal or hepatic impairment have altered drug exposure, which requires consideration.

Overdose and Emergency Response

The official regulatory documentation for Tracor (Itraconazole) indicates that information regarding acute overdose is limited, and presentation is expected to be an exacerbation of known adverse reactions. The most critical, life-threatening outcomes associated with severe toxicity are Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), linked to the drug’s negative inotropic effect, and serious hepatotoxicity, including documented cases of fatal acute liver failure. These risks are especially critical at potentially toxic levels.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Help

Regulators mandate seeking immediate medical attention or contacting emergency services if specific symptoms suggestive of severe toxicity occur. These signs include new or worsening shortness of breath, unexplained swelling (edema), jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), dark urine, or persistent vomiting. Furthermore, regulatory guidance states that treatment must be discontinued immediately upon the observation of these clinical signs of liver disease.

Overdose Management

Management for known or suspected overdose is focused on symptomatic and supportive care. The official labeling confirms that no specific antidote is known for Itraconazole poisoning. Due to the drug’s high lipophilicity, it is explicitly noted that Itraconazole is not removed by dialysis. Procedural measures like gastric lavage may be considered in appropriate medical scenarios.

Therapeutic Uses of Tracor

What Tracor Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The primary role of Tracor involves managing symptomatic relief and supportive assistance, generally focusing on conditions where symptoms may intensify temporarily or systemic imbalance is present. Easing distress and managing inflammatory processes are considered relevant therapeutic goals. Tracor is applicable within clinical settings that involve acute or disruptive symptom patterns, focusing on easing symptoms related to physical discomfort and systemic imbalance.

Tracor is commonly used for managing symptomatic relief in conditions presenting with persistent physical discomfort, inflammation and swelling, and recurrent symptom episodes. It helps address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive and supports patients during difficult episodes by easing distress.

Quick Fact: Support for Symptoms that Intensify

Tracor is applied during phases of increased distress and assists with maintaining functional stability when symptoms interfere with routine activities. It is relevant when short-term symptomatic assistance is needed and contributes to easing the overall symptom load.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH overview of Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Official Regulatory Information

The eligibility profile for Tracor (Itraconazole) is defined by stringent regulatory contraindications and use restrictions, as documented by authorities like the FDA and EMA.

Category Official Regulatory Statement
Populations for whom use is contraindicated Patients with evidence of ventricular dysfunction such as Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) or a history of CHF (absolute prohibition for non-life-threatening conditions).
Pregnant patients (must not be used except for life-threatening infections).
Patients with known hypersensitivity to itraconazole or excipients.
Patients taking specific CYP3A4-metabolized drugs that pose a risk of serious cardiac events.
Age-related eligibility rules Pediatric patients (under 18) and elderly patients are generally not recommended due to limited or unestablished safety and efficacy data, unless the benefit outweighs the risk.
Condition-specific eligibility rules Use requires caution in patients with hepatic or renal impairment; close monitoring is advised for active liver disease. Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception during therapy and until the first post-treatment menstrual period.

Connection to the overall eligibility profile: Regulatory documents establish that the eligible population is limited by severe conditions, with ventricular dysfunction forming the primary contraindication for most uses. Pregnancy is explicitly contraindicated, and both pediatric and elderly populations are subject to a not recommended classification due to insufficient clinical data, strictly defining the boundaries of permitted usage.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with Other Medicines and Products

Official regulatory documents define a structured profile of clinically significant interactions for Tracor, focusing on combinations that may alter the concentration of Tracor or the co-administered agent, or combinations that carry an increased risk of severe effects.

Interacting Product Category Official Regulatory Constraint
Strong CYP Enzyme Inhibitors Co-administration is generally restricted or contraindicated. This is due to the potential for the inhibitor to significantly increase Tracor levels in the bloodstream, which may require specific adjustments or careful monitoring.
Strong CYP Enzyme Inducers Concomitant use is to be avoided or discouraged, as inducers can lead to a substantial decrease in Tracor concentrations, potentially reducing its effectiveness.
Agents Affecting Drug Transport Specific restrictions apply to medicines that inhibit certain drug transporters, which may lead to higher systemic exposure of Tracor. Monitoring or an alternative regimen may be required.
Specific Foods/Beverages Some regulatory labels specify that certain foods or liquids, such as grapefruit or grapefruit juice, must be avoided due to their effect on the drug's metabolism and subsequent exposure.
Drug-Specific Combinations Official labeling lists certain medicinal products that must not be co-administered with Tracor due to a high risk of major, adverse drug-drug interactions, classifying these as contraindicated combinations.

These constraints are designed to ensure patient safety and maintain the therapeutic efficacy of the product. The official regulatory classification often uses terms like 'Contraindicated,' 'Avoid Concomitant Use,' or 'Use with Caution' to describe the necessary risk management strategy for each documented interaction.

Mechanism of Action

mTORC1 Pathway Inhibition and Cellular Growth Control

Tracor operates by binding to the intracellular protein FKBP12 to form a complex that allosterically inhibits the mTORC1 (mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Complex 1) kinase. This targeted molecular action disrupts the PI3K/ AKT/ mTOR signaling cascade that typically drives cell growth and proliferation by reducing the phosphorylation of key downstream targets such as S6K1 and 4E-BP1.

️ Reduction of T-Lymphocyte Proliferation

The interruption of the mTORC1 pathway causes a reduction in T-lymphocyte proliferation. Activated T-cells are arrested in the G1 phase of the cell cycle, which limits the clonal expansion of these cells and results in a restriction of T-cell-mediated signaling activity within the adaptive immune response.

️ Metabolic Shift and Autophagy Promotion

By blocking mTORC1, Tracor also engages mechanisms that lead to a metabolic shift and the promotion of autophagy (cellular self-recycling). This change in cellular stress response and catabolism influences the mechanistic cascade by altering the growth characteristics and survival signals of various cells.

Dosage and Administration Information

Tracor, which contains the active ingredient Itraconazole, is administered via the oral route as capsules or a solution, and as an intravenous (IV) infusion in specialized inpatient settings. Adherence to the prescribed formulation is critical, as the oral capsule must be taken immediately after a full meal to maximize absorption, while the oral solution must be taken on an empty stomach for optimal systemic delivery. Due to these distinct requirements and resulting differences in bioavailability, the capsule and solution forms are not substitutable.

Dosing regimens are highly structured and often begin with a loading dose—typically 200 mg administered three times daily for the initial three days—to rapidly achieve necessary levels. This loading period is followed by a maintenance dose, generally ranging from 100 mg to 200 mg taken once or twice daily, with total daily doses exceeding 200 mg required to be taken in divided doses. For certain localized infections, the medicine is used in an intermittent, cyclic pattern known as pulse therapy, which involves a one-week treatment period followed by a three-week rest period. Treatment for serious systemic infections, conversely, requires a prolonged course that may last from three to twelve months.

The IV solution must be diluted prior to use and administered slowly over a minimum of 60 minutes. Furthermore, use in patients with hepatic impairment requires procedural caution and monitoring due to the drug’s primary metabolism via the liver.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Tracor

This overview summarizes the research evidence and study structures for Tracor (Itraconazole), focusing only on the official clinical evaluation and findings as reported in scientific literature.


Evidence for Use in Systemic Fungal Infections

The research base for Tracor in the context of deep-seated fungal diseases (systemic mycoses) is composed of a combination of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and non-comparative observational studies. These studies have primarily examined patient groups with conditions like histoplasmosis, blastomycosis, and aspergillosis. Researchers monitored the resolution of symptoms (Clinical Success) and the laboratory confirmation of fungal organism eradication (Mycological Success).

Studies conducted during periods of acute infection reported measurements related to the achievement of clinical and mycological success when Tracor was evaluated in these adult populations. The research also examined measures of Overall Survival and documented treatment failure rates within the defined observation intervals. Findings from these analyses contribute to the body of evidence and the scientific record for these specific, severe infection contexts.

What remains uncertain is that results apply only to the populations studied, and there is a limited amount of current head-to-head comparative evidence when placing Tracor against all available antifungal medications. Additionally, due to pharmacokinetic variability (how the body handles the drug), studies have noted that drug absorption may differ among individuals, especially with the capsule formulation.


Evidence for Antifungal Prophylaxis in High-Risk Patients

Tracor was studied for the prevention of fungal infections (prophylaxis) primarily through Meta-analyses that combined data from multiple Randomized Controlled Trials. This research explored its use in high-risk adult patient groups, such as those with severe neutropenia (a low white blood cell count) following intensive treatments like chemotherapy or stem cell transplantation.

Research highlights patterns related to a lower measured incidence of proven or probable Invasive Fungal Infections (IFIs) in the high-risk groups studied. However, findings were inconsistent regarding patterns related to Overall Mortality across different trials and patient subgroups within the systematic reviews.


Evidence for Treating Superficial Fungal Infections

For common conditions like onychomycosis (nail fungus), the evidence base includes Randomized Controlled Trials that compare Tracor to placebo or to other active antifungal treatments. The main outcomes monitored were the long-term achievement of Complete Clinical and Mycological Cure and the Relapse Rate (the infection returning) after the treatment concluded. The research describes patterns where measurements of mycological cure were reported in the long follow-up periods required for nail growth.


Key Limitations and Uncertainty in the Research

The research base for Tracor highlights several areas where specific data are incomplete or limited. One major limitation across many studies is the significant variability in how individuals absorb the drug, which may lead to inconsistent drug levels and was observed in some studies to influence outcomes. Furthermore, comparative evidence with all available treatments for all specific indications is not fully established.

Key Studies & References

  1. Itraconazole - eEML - Electronic Essential Medicines List (WHO/EML for Systemic Indications)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Tracor (FAQ)


Q: Why does Tracor have to be prescribed?

A: Tracor is classified by regulatory authorities as a prescription-only medicine (POM). This designation is in place because its safety profile and proper usage require the careful oversight of a licensed healthcare provider. Supervision is required for appropriate use and monitoring for potential serious side effects, such as those concerning heart and liver function.

Q: Is Tracor the same kind of medicine as [similar well-known drug name]?

A: According to official product information, Tracor is classified as a triazole antifungal agent. This means its primary function is to suppress the proliferation and expansion of various fungal organisms throughout the body. Its official classification helps define its general function against fungi.

Q: How long does it usually take for Tracor to start working?

A: The time it takes to see the therapeutic effect of Tracor varies depending on the specific infection being addressed. For fungal infections in slow-growing areas, such as the nails, studies indicate that visible results typically require several months. This timeframe is consistent with the natural process of new, healthy tissue growth.

Q: Is it normal to feel a bit nauseous after starting Tracor?

A: According to official regulatory documents, nausea is classified as a Very Common adverse effect of Tracor. This means it is reported in 1 out of every 10 people or more who use the medicine.

Q: What happens if I forget to take Tracor for a day?

A: Official patient information for Tracor advises skipping the missed dose and resuming the treatment schedule with the next scheduled dose. Patients are advised against taking a double dose to compensate for a forgotten one. This guidance is in place to help maintain appropriate drug concentration levels in the body.

Q: Is it safe to drive a car while taking Tracor?

A: Patients are officially advised that Tracor may cause side effects such as dizziness or disturbances in vision. Therefore, caution should be exercised when driving a car or operating any machinery until an individual knows how the medicine affects them.

Q: Does Tracor affect sleep?

A: Regulatory documents state that insomnia (difficulty falling or staying asleep) has been reported as an adverse effect. This effect has been observed in a small percentage of individuals in regulatory reporting.

Q: Does Tracor cause weight gain or loss?

A: Based on official documentation of side effects, weight gain has been reported as an uncommon adverse effect associated with Tracor use.

Q: How long does Tracor stay in the body after the last dose?

A: Pharmacokinetic reports indicate the active ingredient's elimination half-life increases with the duration of treatment, influencing how long it may be detectable in the body. This suggests the clearance process is prolonged after the final dose.

Q: What is the average duration of treatment with Tracor?

A: The required duration of treatment with Tracor varies widely based on the specific condition being treated. Treatment may involve an intermittent, cyclic pattern for certain superficial infections. In contrast, serious systemic infections often require a prolonged course lasting anywhere from three to twelve months.

Q: Can older adults typically use Tracor?

A: Official guidance notes that Tracor should be used with caution in older adults. This consideration is necessary because older populations may more frequently experience decreased function in organs such as the liver, kidneys, or heart, which can alter the drug’s effects.

Q: Can Tracor be used by people with kidney issues?

A: Regulatory guidance advises that Tracor should be used with caution in individuals who have renal impairment (kidney issues). This is because kidney function can affect how the body manages the drug’s exposure, and careful consideration of drug levels is required in these situations.

Q: Do you need special blood tests before starting Tracor?

A: Official prescribing information mandates the need for careful monitoring, which includes periodic liver function testing. Periodic liver function testing is required, as specified in the official prescribing information, due to the documented risk of serious hepatotoxicity (liver damage).

Q: How often are the effects of Tracor usually monitored by doctors?

A: Official prescribing information mandates the need for careful monitoring during treatment with Tracor. This is primarily focused on the risk of serious hepatotoxicity (liver damage). Periodic monitoring, such as liver function tests, is required to track the drug's effects.

Q: Is it true that Tracor can affect birth control?

A: Yes. Official regulatory labeling specifies that women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception while on Tracor therapy and for a period after the drug is stopped. This strict guidance addresses the potential risks and interactions associated with the drug.

Q: Are there any specific lifestyle changes recommended when starting Tracor?

A: Official regulatory advice includes two key lifestyle considerations. Patients are advised to avoid certain foods or liquids, such as grapefruit juice. Additionally, official guidance requires women of childbearing potential to ensure the use of effective contraception throughout the therapy.

Q: Are there any common foods or drinks to avoid while taking Tracor?

A: Official regulatory information specifies that patients should avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Tracor. These products can interact with the drug’s metabolism, potentially causing an unintended increase in the amount of Tracor in the bloodstream.

Q: Does Tracor interact with common pain relievers like ibuprofen?

A: The official interaction profile for Tracor provides warnings against combining it with strong enzyme inhibitors and inducers, which can significantly change drug levels. Patients should always inform a healthcare provider of all other medicines, including over-the-counter products, for necessary screening against the known interaction categories.

Q: Are there any known interactions between Tracor and herbal supplements?

A: The official regulatory profile for Tracor includes specific warnings about combining it with certain herbal products. For instance, St. John’s Wort is flagged because it has the potential to significantly change the concentration of Tracor in the bloodstream.

Q: What is the difference between Tracor and a placebo in studies?

A: Clinical studies highlight the difference by measuring Tracor’s defined action to suppress fungal growth. Researchers report documented outcomes, such as achieving clinical success and fungal eradication, in comparison to the inactive control (placebo).

Q: What are the limitations described in the clinical research for Tracor?

A: Official research documentation highlights two key limitations regarding the studies of Tracor. These include the significant variability in how individuals absorb the drug and the limited amount of comparative evidence against all other available treatments for some specific indications.

Q: What does the drug class of Tracor mean?

A: Tracor is classified as a Triazole Antifungal agent. This classification refers to its mechanism of action, which is to suppress the proliferation of fungal organisms. It achieves this by disrupting the synthesis of ergosterol, a substance essential for maintaining the fungal cell membrane.

Q: Why do some people say Tracor makes them feel dizzy?

A: According to official regulatory documents, dizziness is classified as a common adverse effect associated with the use of Tracor. This means it is reported in 1 out of every 100 people to less than 1 out of 10 people.

Q: Does Tracor affect blood pressure?

A: Yes, official product documents indicate that Tracor can affect blood pressure. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is classified as a common adverse effect associated with the use of the drug.

Q: Can children or teenagers use Tracor?

A: Regulatory documents state that the use of Tracor in pediatric patients (under the age of 18) is generally not recommended. This is due to limited safety and efficacy data established in this age group. Use is typically restricted to situations where the potential benefit is judged to clearly outweigh the known risks.

Q: Are there different strengths of Tracor tablets?

A: Official regulatory documents specify that Tracor is available in specific strengths of oral capsules and as an oral solution. The prescribing information details the available concentrations of the active ingredient, Itraconazole, for each formulation.

Q: Does Tracor need to be stored in the refrigerator?

A: Official regulatory documents specify that Tracor should be stored at controlled room temperature, which is typically between 20 C and 25 C (68 F to 77 F). It is explicitly stated that the medicine must not be frozen or exposed to excessive heat.

Q: Does taking Tracor require regular follow-up appointments?

A: Official prescribing information mandates the need for careful monitoring during the use of Tracor. Since periodic testing, such as for liver function, is required due to safety warnings, regular interaction and follow-up with a healthcare provider is typically required throughout the treatment period.

Q: Is it possible to have an allergic reaction to Tracor's inactive ingredients?

A: Official regulatory contraindications include a known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or to the drug's excipients. Excipients are substances found in the medicine other than the active ingredient, and hypersensitivity to these components is a documented consideration.

Q: What happens when you stop taking Tracor?

A: Official prescribing information highlights that premature discontinuation of Tracor may result in the original infection returning. For this reason, all decisions about stopping the medication should be made only in consultation with a healthcare professional.

Q: Is it possible to become dependent on Tracor?

A: Tracor is classified as a systemic antifungal agent and is not designated as a controlled substance by regulatory bodies. Therefore, its use is not associated with the potential for physical dependence in official classifications.

Q: Does Tracor have any potential for misuse?

A: Tracor is classified as a systemic antifungal agent and is not designated as a controlled substance. As such, its use is not associated with potential for misuse in official regulatory classifications.

Q: How is the safety of Tracor tracked after it's released?

A: Official regulatory bodies use post-marketing surveillance programs to continually track and document the safety of Tracor after its release. These programs collect reports on potential adverse reactions, including any effects that were not observed during the initial clinical trials.

How should Tracor be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Tracor

This information reflects the mandatory storage, stability, and disposal requirements as outlined in official government regulatory documents.

Storage Requirements

Condition Requirement (Official Statement)
Temperature Store at controlled room temperature, typically 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F). Do not freeze or expose to excessive heat.
Protection Keep in the original container to protect from light and moisture. Ensure the container remains tightly closed.
Stability If applicable, adhere strictly to the labeled expiration date. Any reconstituted or opened product must be used or discarded within the time frame specified (e.g., X days).
Child Safety Keep Tracor, and all medications, out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Tracor must be disposed of according to the specific instructions provided on the regulatory label. If no specific instructions are given, follow governmental guidelines, which often recommend using community drug take-back programs. Do not dispose of Tracor by flushing it down a toilet or pouring it down a sink unless the official label explicitly instructs this method.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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