0698drug name
Generic name:
Miconazole nitrate – vaginal
Pronunciation
(my-KON-a-zole NYE-treatment)
BRANDS)
copy of
from user
This medication is used to treat vaginal yeast infections. Miconazole reduces the burning, itching, and vaginal discharge that can occur with this condition. This medication is an azole antifungal. It works by preventing the growth of the yeast (fungus) that causes the infection. The vaginal product is available in 2 forms (vaginal cream or tablet). Some products also come with a skin cream that is applied to the outside area of the vagina.
Ask your doctor before using this medication for self-treatment if this is your first vaginal infection. This medication only works against vaginal yeast infections. You may have another type of infection (such as bacterial vaginosis) and need different medications.
If you have fever, chills, flu-like symptoms, stomach/abdominal pain, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge, do not use this medication. Contact your doctor right away, as these could be signs of a more serious infection.
How to use
If you are using the over-the-counter product for self-medication, read all product package instructions before using this medication. Contact your pharmacist if you have any questions. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, use it as directed.
Read the patient information sheet, which is available from your pharmacist. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
This product is for vaginal use only. Wash your hands before and after use. Avoid contact of this product with eyes. If it comes into contact with eyes, flush immediately with plenty of water. Call your doctor if eye irritation persists.
Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Use the medicine usually once a day at bedtime for 1 to 7 nights depending on the product used or as directed by your physician. If using the single-dose tablet, it can be taken during the day or at bedtime.
If using the vaginal cream, follow package directions on how to fill/use the applicator with the cream. Lie on your back with your knees resting on your chest. Insert a cream-filled applicator into the vagina as far as possible. Slowly press the applicator plunger to apply the cream. Make sure you put the correct cream for use inside the vagina, not the skin cream for use on the external genital area (vulva).
If you are using the pill vaginally, you can use the applicator or your finger to insert the pill. Unpack the tablet before use. Follow package directions on how to fill the applicator with the vaginal tablet. Lie on your back with your knees resting on your chest. Insert the pill or applicator as deep as possible into the breast. Slowly push the applicator plunger to release the tablet.
If you experience itching/burning on the outside of your vagina (vulva), apply the skin cream to that area, usually twice a day for up to 7 days. If you are only using a vaginal cream product, you can apply a small amount of vaginal cream to the area.
Continue to use this medication every day for the full amount of time prescribed, even if the symptoms disappear after a few days or if menstruation begins. If you stop the medication too soon, the yeast infection may return.
Do not use tampons, douches, spermicides, or other vaginal products while using this medication. Unscented sanitary napkins can be used during menstruation or to protect your clothes from leaking medicine.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve after 3 days or lasts longer than 7 days. Tell your doctor if your infection comes back within 2 months. You may need a different or additional medication to treat your condition.
Side effects
See also the Applications section.
Headaches, burning/itching/vaginal/urethral pain, or cramping in the lower abdomen may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately.
If your doctor has told you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people who use this medication do not experience serious side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. But get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- breathing difficulties
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice any other side effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
And the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report adverse reactions to the FDA by calling 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report adverse reactions to Health Canada by calling 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it. or to other azole antifungals (such as terconazole, fluconazole). or if you have other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients that may cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
If you have any of the following health problems, contact your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication:
- Diabetes
- problems with the immune system (such as HIV-AIDS)
- frequent vaginal yeast infections (more than 3 in 6 months or 4 in 1 year)
Before surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all products you use (including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products).
Ask your doctor if you can have sex while using this product. This product can weaken rubber products (such as latex condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps) and cause failure. This can lead to pregnancy. Do not use these products during treatment with this medicine and for 3 days after treatment ends. Consult your physician about other forms of barrier protection/contraception (such as polyurethane condoms) during this time.
Do not use this medication for self-medication if you are pregnant. During pregnancy, this medication should only be used when clearly needed. If you are pregnant, follow your doctor's instructions on how to use the applicator to insert this medication. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Interactions with other drugs
Drug interactions can change how your medicine works or increase your risk of serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without your doctor's approval.
A product that may interact with this medication is:
- warfarin
Overdose
This medicine can be harmful if swallowed. If someone overdoses and has severe symptoms, such as fainting or difficulty breathing, call 911. If not, call a poison control center immediately. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents can call a provincial poison control center.
Noting
Do not share this medicine with others.
To prevent vaginal yeast infections, dry the genital area thoroughly after showering, bathing, or swimming. Avoid wearing tight jeans, nylon underwear, tights, wet bathing suits or wet/sweaty gym clothes for extended periods of time. Wear cotton underwear and change them daily.
If your sexual partner develops symptoms, you should contact your doctor immediately.
forgot the dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Use the next dose at the usual time. Do not double the dose to compensate.
To save
Store at room temperature. Keep all medications out of the reach of children and pets.
Do not flush medication down the toilet or drain unless instructed to do so. Dispose of this product properly when it expires or is no longer needed. Contact your local pharmacy or recycling company.
important note
HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT contain all possible information about this product. This information does not guarantee that this product is safe, effective or suitable for you. This information does not constitute individual medical advice and does not replace the advice of your healthcare professional. Always ask your healthcare professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Information was last revised in May 2023.
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