Miconazole for vaginal thrush

About miconazole for vaginal thrush

Many women have an occasional bout of vaginal thrush. It is due to an infection with a yeast fungus called Candida spp. Most cases of thrush are caused by the yeast called Candida albicans but other types of Candida spp. can also cause thrush. Common symptoms of vaginal thrush are itching, soreness, and redness around the outside of the vagina and a thick, creamy white, odourless vaginal discharge. Miconazole works by killing the yeast fungus causing the infection.

Miconazole vaginal cream is usually inserted high into the vagina using an applicator. It can also be applied to the area around the outside of the vagina to relieve itching and soreness.

Other forms of miconazole are available but these are used to treat fungal skin infections elsewhere on the body. There are separate medicine leaflets called Miconazole for fungal skin and nail infections and Miconazole for oral thrush which give more information about these.

Before using miconazole

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine may only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start using miconazole it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you are pregnant. It is important that you tell your doctor if you are expecting a baby, as you may need to use miconazole for a longer period of time during pregnancy than is usually recommended.

• If you are under 18 years of age.

• If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines. It is particularly important if you are taking warfarin or medicines for high cholesterol (statins) because miconazole can alter the way these medicines work.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How to use miconazole for vaginal thrush

• Before starting this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. It will give you more information about how to use the miconazole preparation you have been given.

• If you have been prescribed Gyno-Daktarin® cream for internal use, you should use it once daily at bedtime for seven days. Pierce the seal on the tube and attach one of the disposable applicators to the tube. Squeeze the cream into the applicator until the plunger reaches the 'stop' mark. Remove the applicator from the tube, and then insert the cream-filled end of the applicator into your vagina as high as it is comfortable for you. Push the plunger to release the cream into your vagina. Throw away the applicator after use.

• If you have been told to use Gyno-Daktarin® cream only on the area around the outside of your vagina, apply it twice each day and rub it in gently.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Use miconazole exactly as your doctor tells you to. Remember to complete the course of treatment (even if you are having your period) as this will help to prevent the infection from coming back. If your symptoms do recur, go back to see your doctor for further advice, as you may need to repeat the course of treatment.

• Miconazole can damage the latex in condoms and diaphragms so do not rely on these forms of contraception. Use an alternative method of contraception (or do not have sex) while you are using miconazole. Please also keep in mind that having vaginal sex while you have thrush could infect your partner.

• If your symptoms do not improve within a week of using miconazole, contact your doctor for further advice. An alternative treatment could be more suitable for you.

Can miconazole cause problems?

Miconazole is unlikely to cause any serious side-effects, although it can cause mild irritation and itching in some women. If you experience any other symptoms, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.

How to store miconazole

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines