Health Information

Oral Medicines for Vaginal Yeast Infections

What To Think About

Women who use several months of maintenance treatment for recurring vaginal yeast infections should have regular checkups to watch for side effects and to find out how well treatment is working.

Treatment of sex partners does not typically prevent a yeast infection from recurring. But sex partners with red, itchy, or painful skin in the genital area should be seen by a doctor and treated if needed.

Women who have a vaginal yeast infection and who have HIV should follow the same treatment regimens as women who have a vaginal yeast infection and do not have HIV.^{Reference 1}

Taking medicine

Medicine is one of the many tools your doctor has to treat a health problem. Taking medicine as your doctor suggests will improve your health and may prevent future problems. If you don't take your medicines properly, you may be putting your health (and perhaps your life) at risk.

There are many reasons why people have trouble taking their medicine. But in most cases, there is something you can do. For suggestions on how to work around common problems, see the topic Reference Taking Medicines as Prescribed.

Advice for women

If you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning to get pregnant, do not use any medicines unless your doctor tells you to. Some medicines can harm your baby. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbs, and supplements. And make sure that all your doctors know that you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or planning to get pregnant.

Checkups

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a Reference PDF Opens New Window document?) to help you understand this medication.

By:	Reference Healthwise Staff	Last Revised: November 5, 2012
Medical Review:	Reference Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine Reference Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology