Miconazole Nitrate

Miconazole Nitrate Miconazole is a vaginal suppository prescribed to treat vaginal yeast infections. An antifungal, the medication kills the infection-causing fungi by damaging its outer layer. Patients usually experience symptom relief within 24 hours. Read more about yeast infection.
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How to use this information
This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of a medical provider. If you have any questions, go to your patient dashboard and request a callback for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Medication name

MICONAZOLE NITRATE - VAGINAL\ (mye-KON-a-zole NYE-trate)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Monistat

What you should know about Miconazole
  • This medication is used to treat vaginal yeast infections.
  • Miconazole reduces the vaginal burning, itching, and discharge that may occur with this condition. 
  • This medication is an azole antifungal. It works by stopping the growth of the yeast (fungus) that causes the infection. 
  • The vaginal product comes in 2 forms: a vaginal cream or a tablet. Some products also come with a skin cream to be applied to the area around the outside of the vagina.
  • This medication is prescribed for vaginal fungal infections only. You may have a different type of infection (such as bacterial vaginosis) and may need a different medication.
  • If you’re experiencing fever, chills, flu-like symptoms, stomach/abdominal pain or a bad-smelling vaginal discharge, do not use this medication. Login to your patient dashboard and request a callback right away—these may be signs of a more serious infection.
How to take Miconazole
  • If you are using the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read all directions on the product package before using this medication. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist. If you have been prescribed this medication, use it as directed.
  • Read the Patient Information Leaflet available from your pharmacist. Request a callback if you have any questions.
  • This product is for vaginal use only. Wash your hands before and after use. Avoid contact with your eyes. If it gets into your eyes, wash them right away with plenty of water. Request a medical provider callback if eye irritation does not subside.
  • Your prescribed dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. The medication is usually used once daily at bedtime for 1 to 7 nights depending on the product used, or as directed by your medical provider. If you are using the single dose tablet, it may be used during the daytime or at bedtime.
  • If using the vaginal tablet, you may use either the applicator or your finger to insert the tablet.  Unwrap the tablet before use. Follow the package instructions on how to fill the applicator with the vaginal tablet. Use as follows:

    • Lie on your back with your knees toward your chest.
    • Insert the tablet or the applicator into the vagina as far as it will comfortably go.
    • Slowly press the plunger of the applicator to release the tablet.
  • Continue to use this medication every day for the full time prescribed, even if symptoms disappear after a few days or if your menstrual period starts. Stopping the medication too soon may allow the yeast infection to return.
  • Do not use tampons, douches, spermicides or other vaginal products while using this medication. Unscented sanitary napkins may be used for your menstrual period or to protect your clothing from leakage of the medication.
  • Request a medical provider callback if your condition does not improve after 3 days, lasts more than 7 days or if your infection returns within 2 months. You may need a different or additional medication to treat your condition.
Potential side effects
  • Headache, vaginal/urethral burning/itching/pain or lower abdominal cramps may occur. If any of these effects persist or get worse, request a callback to notify your medical provider or pharmacist promptly.
  • If your medical provider has directed you to use this medication, remember that your medical provider has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not experience serious side effects.
  • A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness or trouble breathing.
  • This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, request a callback for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Precautions to be aware of
  • Before using Miconazole, tell your medical provider or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or to other azole antifungal agents (such as Terconazole and Fluconazole),  or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Ask your pharmacist for more details.
  • Before using this medication, tell your medical provider or pharmacist if you have the following medical issues: diabetes, immune system problems (such as HIV-AIDS) or frequent vaginal yeast infections (more than 3 in 6 months or 4 in 1 year).
  • Before having surgery, tell your medical provider or dentist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs and herbal products.
  • Ask your medical provider whether you can have sexual intercourse while using this product. This product may weaken rubber products—such as latex condoms, diaphragms or cervical caps—and lead to failure. This can result in pregnancy. Do not use these products during treatment with this medication and for 3 days after treatment is over. Consult your medical provider about other forms of barrier protection/birth control (such as polyurethane condoms) during this time.
  • Do not use this medication for self-treatment if you are pregnant. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when there is a clear need. If you are pregnant, be extra careful to follow your medical provider's instructions on how to use the applicator to insert this medication. Discuss the risks and benefits with your medical provider.
  • It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your medical provider before breast-feeding.
Drug interactions
  • Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for 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 medical provider and pharmacist. 
  • Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicines without your medical provider's approval.  
  • Warfarin may interact with this drug.
  • Some products that may increase the risk of vaginal yeast infections include antibiotics, corticosteroids like Prednisone and drugs that suppress the immune system, such as Cyclosporine and Methotrexate.
What to do in the event of an overdose

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. If symptoms from taking this medication are less severe, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 right away.

Additional notes
  • Do not share this medication with others.
  • Take the following steps to help prevent vaginal yeast infections:

    • Dry the genital area thoroughly after showering, bathing or swimming. 
    • Avoid wearing tight jeans, nylon underwear, pantyhose, a wet bathing suit or damp/sweaty exercise clothes for long periods. 
    • Wear cotton underwear, and change your underwear daily.
  • If your sexual partner experiences symptoms, they should contact their medical provider right away.

What to do if you miss a dose
  • If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember.
  • If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. 
  • Do not double the dose to catch up.
How to store this medication
  • Store at room temperature away from light and moisture.
  • Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets. 
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Request a callback or contact your local waste disposal company for more information.
Treatment for
Generic Name
Miconazole Nitrate
Brand Name
Miconazole Nitrate
Drug Class
Antifungal

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