Miconazole (vaginal)

About vaginal miconazole

Vaginal and vulval candidiasis (thrush) is a yeast infection of the lower female reproductive tract. Miconazole works by killing fungi and yeasts, stopping the infection that causes the thrush.

Before using vaginal miconazole

Before using vaginal miconazole make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to use vaginal miconazole

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• If you are using the pessaries, unwrap the pessary and push it gently into the vagina as high as possible, then wash your hands. You will have been asked to insert one pessary in the morning and one in the evening for 7 days, or to insert one in the evening for 14 days. Even if your symptoms disappear, you must continue to use the pessaries until the course is finished, even if this is during your period, otherwise your symptoms may come back.
• If you forget a dose, don't worry just continue with the next dose when it is due.
• If you are using the ovule/vaginal capsule, you will have been given a single dose to use before going to bed. Remove the ovule from the packaging and push it gently into the vagina as high as possible using your finger, then wash your hands.
• If you are using the cream, pierce the seal on the tube and attach one of the disposable applicators, then squeeze the cream into the tube until the plunger reaches the 'stop' mark. Remove the applicator and insert it into your vagina. Press the plunger to release the cream, throw away the used applicator and wash your hands. You will have been asked to use the cream once a day for 10-14 days or twice a day for 7 days. If you are unsure, check with your doctor.
• If you have been asked to use the cream on the outside genital areas only, apply it twice daily.

Getting the most from your treatment

• This treatment can damage the latex in condoms and diaphragms. While you are using miconazole you will need to use another method of contraception.
• Leakage can sometimes occur as the pessaries melt. This is nothing to worry about but wearing panty liners may help.
• Vaginal thrush is a common problem but it can be reduced by avoiding wearing tight clothing, and by using unscented soaps and bath products.

Can vaginal miconazole cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. While miconazole used vaginally does not usually cause any side effect apart from occasional irritation, speak with your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine.

How to store vaginal miconazole

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines