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Miconazole (vaginal)

  • Miconazole is an antifungal used for the treatment of vaginal thrush.
  • Continue to use miconazole for as long as you have been told to, otherwise your symptoms may come back.
  • Condoms and diaphragms can be damaged by miconazole so do not rely on these for contraception or safe sex while using miconazole.

About vaginal miconazole

Type of medicine Antifungal
Used for Treatment of fungal infections of the vagina and vulva (genital thrush)
Also called Gyno-Daktarin®, Gyno-Daktarin 1®
Available as Vaginal cream, ovule (vaginal capsule) and pessary

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


  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • If you suspect that you or someone else has swallowed some of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2008 DocID:
9017
DocRef:
dils3937
Last Updated:
11 Jul 2008
Date of Next Review:
11 Jul 2010
Version:
1











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See also MAKEPOVERTYHISTORY North East for details and links to campaigns against poverty.

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