Miconazole is an antifungal medication used to treat oral or genital candidiasis and fungal skin infections caused by different types of fungi, especially Candida species. It works by stopping the growth of the fungus and helping relieve symptoms such as itching, redness, and irritation.
This medication is available in pharmacies in several forms, including miconazole cream, powder, or spray for skin fungal infections, oral formulations for fungal infections in the mouth, and vaginal cream for vaginal or anal yeast infections.
Miconazole should always be used under medical supervision. A healthcare provider will decide which form is most appropriate and determine how long treatment should last, depending on the type and location of the fungal infection.
Indications for use
Miconazole is indicated for the treatment of:
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Candida infections affecting the vulva, vagina, or perianal area;
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Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot);
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Tinea cruris (jock itch)
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Tinea corporis (ringworm), a fungal skin infection that can affect the trunk, arms, legs, or buttocks;
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Tinea versicolor (pityriasis versicolor), caused by the fungus Malassezia furfur.
Miconazole nitrate should always be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider, as the appropriate formulation and treatment duration depend on the specific type of infection.
How to use
Different formulations of miconazole include:
1. Vaginal cream
Miconazole vaginal cream is used to treat vaginal candidiasis (vaginal yeast infection). The applicators included in the package usually hold about 5 g of the medication. The cream should be applied as follows:
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Fill the applicator by attaching it to the tube and squeezing the base;
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Gently insert the applicator into the vagina as deeply as possible;
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Push the plunger to empty the applicator and release the cream inside the vagina;
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Remove the applicator;
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Discard the applicator if the package includes enough applicators for the full course of treatment.
The cream is usually applied at night for 14 consecutive nights or for the prescribed duration. During treatment, it is important to maintain good hygiene and follow additional steps such as keeping the genital area dry, not sharing towels, wearing loose-fitting cotton clothing, limiting sugary foods, and drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day.
2. Cream, powder, or spray
Miconazole cream, powder, or spray is commonly used to treat fungal infections of the skin. Before applying the medication, wash and dry the affected area thoroughly. Then apply the cream, powder, or spray twice a day, spreading it slightly beyond the edges of the affected area.
Treatment usually lasts between 2 and 4 weeks, until symptoms completely resolve. If symptoms persist after this period, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist to reassess the condition and determine whether the treatment needs to be changed.
3. Oral treatment
Miconazole for oral fungal infections is available as a buccal tablet. It is used to treat oral candidiasis (oral thrush) and is placed directly against the gum, where it slowly releases the medication over time.
The buccal tablet should be applied once daily to the upper gum, following the instructions provided by a healthcare provider. It should remain in place for as long as possible and should not be chewed or swallowed.
Miconazole buccal tablets should be taken only as prescribed by a healthcare provider. It is important to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve sooner.
Side effects
Although uncommon, miconazole may cause side effects such as local irritation, itching, burning, or redness at the application site. If these reactions occur, wash the area where the medication was applied and consult a healthcare provider.
Oral formulations of miconazole may also cause nausea, vomiting, changes in taste, dry mouth, or discomfort in the mouth.
In rare cases, miconazole can cause severe allergic reactions that require immediate medical attention. Stop using the medication and seek emergency care if symptoms such as difficulty breathing, a feeling of throat tightness, swelling of the mouth, tongue, or face, blistering, or hives occur.
Contraindications for use
Miconazole should not be used by people who are allergic to miconazole nitrate or other antifungal medications such as fluconazole, ketoconazole, or itraconazole.
People who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare provider before using miconazole cream or other miconazole formulations to ensure the treatment is appropriate for their situation.