What is the primary route of elimination for fluconazole?

Fluconazole is primarily eliminated from the body through renal excretion. This means that the kidneys play a crucial role in processing and removing fluconazole from the bloodstream, primarily in the form of unchanged drug. Approximately 80-90% of a dose of fluconazole is eliminated via the urine, making renal function an important consideration when prescribing this medication, particularly in patients with impaired kidney function.

In contrast, options such as hepatic metabolism, fecal excretion, and cutaneous secretion are not the primary pathways for fluconazole elimination. While some degree of hepatic metabolism may occur, it is not the main route of excretion for this antifungal agent. Fecal excretion and cutaneous secretion are also not significant pathways for the elimination of fluconazole, reinforcing the necessity to focus on renal pathways in clinical settings.