For most mild to moderate infections, doctors will prescribe a single dose or short term antifungal medication:
- Single-dose: The antifungal drug fluconazole (Diflucan) can be administered as a one-time pill. If the infection is severe, your doctor may prescribe supplemental doses of fluconazole to be taken several days apart.
- Short-term: Antifungal medications such as miconazole (Monistat) may be prescribed for administration over 3-7 days. These drugs can come as a tablet, ointment, cream, or suppository that is inserted into the vagina. Some forms of miconazole are available over-the-counter. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and whether or not OTC medication is right for you.
If the infection is severe, or if you have frequently occurring yeast infections, your doctor may prescribe a longer-term treatment plan. These medications include:
- Long-term antifungal therapy: Your doctor may prescribe a topical antifungal medication, or antifungal oral tablets, to be administered for several weeks. After two weeks, these doses adjust to a once-per-week course meant to be taken over 6 months. Antifungal medication, especially if taken over a long period, isn’t recommended for pregnant women.
- Boric acid suppository: If the infection has been resistant to antifungal medication, your doctor may prescribe a boric acid suppository. These medications are meant to be inserted into the vagina every few days. Boric acid can be fatal if taken orally, so follow your doctor’s orders closely and keep the suppositories in a safe place.