Brand & Generic Names

Basic Information

• Habit forming? No
• Prescription needed? Yes, for some
• Available as generic? Yes, some
• Drug class: Antifungal (vaginal)

Uses

Treats fungus infections of the vagina.

Dosage & Usage Information

How to use:
Vaginal creams--Insert into vagina with applicator as illustrated in patient instructions that come with prescription.
Vaginal tablets--Insert with applicator as illustrated in instructions.
Vaginal suppositories--Insert as illustrated in instructions.

When to use:
According to instructions. Usually once or twice daily.

If you forget a dose:
Use as soon as you remember.

What drug does:
Destroys fungus cell's membrane, causing loss of essential elements to sustain fungus cell life.

Time lapse before drug works:
Begins immediately. May require 2 weeks of treatment to cure vaginal fungus infections. Recurrence common.

Don't use with:
Other vaginal preparations or douches unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

Overdose

SYMPTOMS:
None expected.

WHAT TO DO:

Overdose unlikely to threaten life.

Possible Adverse Reactions or Side Effects

Life-threatening:

None expected.

Common:

None expected.

Infrequent:

Vaginal burning, itching, irritation, swelling of labia, redness, increased discharge (not present before starting medicine).

Rare:

Skin rash, hives, irritation of sex partner's penis.

Warnings & Precautions

Don't use if:

• You are allergic to any of the products listed.
• You have pre-existing liver disease.

Before you start, consult your doctor:
If you are pregnant.

Over age 60:
No problems expected.

Pregnancy:
No problems expected, but check with doctor.

Breast-feeding:
No problems expected. Consult doctor.

Infants & children:
Use only under close medical supervision.

Prolonged use:
No problems expected.

Skin & sunlight:
No problems expected.

Driving, piloting or hazardous work:
No problems expected.

Discontinuing:
Recurrence likely if you stop before time suggested.

Others:

• Gentian Violet and some of the other products can stain clothing. Sanitary napkins may protect against staining.
• Keep the genital area clean. Use plain unscented soap.
• Take showers rather than tub baths.
• Wear cotton underpants or pantyhose with a cotton crotch. Avoid underpants made from non-ventilating materials. Wear freshly laundered underpants.
• Don't sit around in wet clothing--especially a wet bathing suit.
• If you will take antibiotics in the future, ask your doctor about eating yogurt, sour cream, buttermilk or taking acidophilus tablets.
• After urination or bowel movements, cleanse by wiping or washing from front to back (vagina to anus).
• Don't douche unless your doctor recommends it.
• If urinating causes burning, urinate through a tubular device, such as a toilet-paper roll or plastic cup with the end cut out.

Possible Interaction with Other Drugs

Possible Interaction with Other Substances