Conditions Treated By Monistat Vs Diflucan
Monistat formulations are intended for the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis in females who have been previously diagnosed with a vaginal yeast infection and are having recurring symptoms. Monistat is not intended for use by anyone who has never been diagnosed with a vaginal yeast infection. Women who are having first-time symptoms consistent with a vaginal yeast infection but have never been diagnosed should be evaluated by a physician first.
Diflucan is also indicated for the treatment of vaginal yeast infections but has a variety of other approved uses which include candida growth in the urinary tract, abdomen, heart, esophagus, oral cavity, blood, and bone. Diflucan may also be used in the treatment of fungal growth on the nails and feet. Patients who are immunocompromised may benefit from prophylactic treatment with Diflucan to prevent fungal overgrowth. A rare condition, cryptococcal meningitis, may also be treated with Diflucan. A Diflucan treatment duration for vaginal yeast infections can range from one to 14 days depending on the treatment history and complexity of the patients infection.
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Yes |
Other Things It Could Be
If youve been having symptoms of a yeast infection for weeks and treatments dont seem to be offering any relief, you might be dealing with something else.
Yeast infection symptoms can resemble those of other vaginal health issues, so its important to make sure you know what youre treating before you choose a medication.
If you use antifungal treatments when you dont have a fungal infection, your symptoms probably wont improve.
What Is Bacterial Vaginosis
BV is an infection caused by changes in the vaginas healthy bacteriamost often when a strain of bacteria called Gardnerella vaginalisoutnumbers another strainLactobacillus, causing the vaginas normal pH levels to shift. Normal vaginal pH is somewhere between 3.5 to 4.5, explains Lauren F. Streicher, M.D., an OB-GYN and medical director of Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause. If those levels rise, it means theres not enough Lactobacillus and too much of the less-friendly bacteria. Put more usefully, it causes that itching, discharge, and odor that makes BV so uncomfortable.
If you get BV, dont take it personallyits the most common vaginal infection in women 15-44. A 2004 survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated 21.2 million of women ages 1449 have experienced BV. So yeah, youre not alone.
Its important to note that BV is not an STIthough it can increase your chances of getting one, according to the CDC. It is, however, what doctors call sexually associated, meaning it can flare up due to sex .
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Bacterial Vaginosis: Another Instigator Of Vaginal Itching
Concerning itching, BV is known to cause vaginal itching. The following studies show the prevalence of itching as a symptom of BV:
- A study in Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology & Research reports that itching occurred in 10 out of 80 women with bv.
- A study in the Annals of Internal Medicine reported that women with BV often do not have symptoms. Some women with BV will have vaginal itching. Other symptoms that can occur with BV include vaginal odor and discharge.
- An article provided by the United States National Center for Biotechnology Information , written by Norah Kairys and Manish Garg, stated that vaginal itching can be a symptom of BV. The article states that most women with BV will have a foul smelling vaginal discharge. This foul smelling discharge can be more noticeable after sexual intercourse. Additionally, it is stated that many women with BV can be without symptoms.
Why Is Vaginal Acidity Important
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Normal vaginal bacteria produce factors that keep the vaginal environment slightly acidic. The acidic environment helps suppress the overgrowth of abnormal bacteria. When abnormal bacteria overgrow or parasitic infections like Trichomoniasis become established, this results in abnormal vaginal activity yeast infections usually do not result in a change in vaginal acidity. A vaginal pH test can determine your vaginal acidity.
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Best Overall: Monistat 1
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May cause uncomfortable itching
This single-dose, prefilled applicator contains 6.5% tioconazole ointment, which is a clinically proven antifungal treatment and effective at quickly treating yeast infections. Its tough on yeast but gentle on sensitive and irritated skin in the surrounding area, so the burning or discomfort often experienced with strong treatments is avoided.
Reviewers say relief is quickwithin three days or lessand are quick to recommend it for others dealing with yeast infections. Tioconazole has been shown to be an effective treatment for yeasts and certain types of bacteria, according to research.
Active Ingredients: Tioconozole 300mg | Dose: One-dose treatment | Uses: To treat yeast infections
Are Vaginal Yeast Infections Like A Std
No, vaginal yeast infections are usually not spread by having intercourse . Common triggers for a yeast infection are menstruation, pregnancy, antibiotic use, having diabetes or a weakened immune system, but sex is unlikely to be the cause. However, if your partner has a rash, itching or discomfort in the genital area, a healthcare professional should be contacted to find the cause of the symptoms. The healthcare professional should be informed that you are treating a vaginal yeast infection with MONISTAT®.
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Which Monistat Should You Get
A study, published in Obstetrics and Gynecology , looked at how various miconazole treatment plans would work to cure yeast infections. The research was able to have 204 women participate. Some of the criteria for participants to be admitted into the study were as follows: be a female of 18 years of age or older, have clinical signs and symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection, not have trichomoniasis and, aside from a yeast infection, be in good health. These participants were randomly placed into 1 of 5 treatment plan groups. The treatment plans were organized by the number of days the women used miconazole. The amount of miconazole the women took is as follows:
- The 1 Day Treatment Group: One 5g applicator of Monistat vaginal cream.
- The 2 Day Treatment Group: A 13.5g supply of Monistat cream.
- The 4 Day Treatment Group: A 23.0g supply of Monistat cream.
- The 7 Day Treatment Group: A 55.0g supply of Monistat cream.
- The 14 Day Treatment Group: A 85.0g supply of Monistat cream.
The women in the 1 day treatment group used the miconazole cream right away. The women in the other groups were directed to insert one applicator of 5g of the cream before they went to sleep doing this for the specified number of days. The women participating also recorded their use of the drug, and the symptoms they were experiencing, on a daily basis. These women handed in their cards at a post-therapy visit.
Buying Monistat
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What Are The Main Differences Between Monistat Vs Diflucan
Monistat is an over-the-counter treatment option for vaginal yeast infections. It fights fungal infections by decreasing the production of ergosterol. This causes damage to the cell wall of the fungus, allowing the escape of nutrients needed for the fungus to thrive.
Monistat comes in a variety of treatment combinations which can include vaginal ovules and/or vaginal creams for both internal and external applications. There are products for one-day, three-day, or seven-day treatment durations. Many of the Monistat formulations have generic options available. Over the counter use of Monistat products is not intended for anyone under the age of 12.
Diflucan is a prescription treatment for yeast infections that works in a similar fashion to Monistat in that it decreases the production of ergosterol. The damage this causes to the cell wall membrane will not allow the fungus to live. Diflucan is available as an oral tablet in 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg strengths. It is also available as an oral suspension and injectable solution. Obtaining a prescription for Diflucan requires evaluation by a physician, and in some cases, a specimen may be required. Diflucan can be prescribed in both children and adults.
Main differences between Monistat vs. Diflucan |
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Monistat |
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Best Preventative: Yeastgard Advanced Yeast Gard Advanced Suppositories
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Relieves burning, itching, and irritation
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Frequent sufferers may benefit from a daily pill
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Relieves symptoms but does not cure infection
Probiotics and calcium carbonate, potassium chloride, and stone root aids combine in this daily supplement to relieve yeast infections internally. These easy-to-swallow capsules go one step further by helping prevent future infections.
While not proven, they may relieve a range of yeast infection symptoms including itching, burning, and irritation without any mess. They may also work to prevent future yeast infections.
Because its a homeopathic product, its not evaluated or regulated by the Food and Drug Administration , so be sure to consult a medical professional before starting a supplement regimen.
Active Ingredients: Collinsonia Canadensis 3X* HPUS** , Kali Muriaticum 3X* HPUS** , Calcarea Carbonica 6X* HPUS** | Doses: 60 | Uses: Relieves yeast infection symptoms and helps prevent them
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Not easily absorbed into the skin
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Relieves symptoms but does not cure infection
This cream comes out on top for its fast-acting symptom relief and instant soothing power. In addition to benzocaine and resorcinol, Vagisil Maximum Strength Anti-Itch also contains vitamins A, D, and E, as well as a patented odor block technology in the soothing, hypoallergenic formula.
Active Ingredients: Benzocaine | Doses: Multiple | Uses: To relieve itch symptoms due to yeast infections
Can I Transfer My Vaginal Yeast Infection To My Partner
Vaginal yeast infections are usually not spread by having intercourse . However, if your partner has a rash, itching or discomfort in the genital area, a healthcare professional should be contacted to find the cause of the symptoms. The healthcare professional should be informed that you are treating a vaginal yeast infection with MONISTAT®.
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What Can You Do
Chronic and recurrent vaginal yeast infections are a systemic problem, so you need a solution that helps your whole body system.
This solution is a combination of following a good anti-Candida diet plus taking medication that kills Candida in all parts of your intestine because the Candida in your intestine is a big factory making pieces of capsule that block your immune system. They are not really chemicals, and they are very complicated structures.
How do you get rid of Candida? The best way is to change your diet. Certain parts of your diet may be feeding your intestinal yeast or clearing out bacteria and making room for the yeast. I explain these problems more thoroughly if you For purposes on this page, know that the biggest outside offender is antibiotics. You may need them for your health, but they make Candida much worse. If you are taking round after round of antibiotics, you probably have chronic vaginal yeast infections as well.
The biggest dietary offenders are malt, a sprouted barley which is heat killed and is raised to feed the yeast in the beer making process. Malt is sold as a sugar substitute and is baked into nearly everything. I explain why malt is such a problem if you The other big offender is vinegar that is loaded with toxic yeast chemicals that kill bacteria and make room for the yeast. I explain why vinegar is such a problem if you
How Do You Know When A Yeast Infection Is Gone
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To know if your yeast infection is going away, you should experience these stages:
- First, you will notice that vaginal discharge has returned to a normal consistency and smell.
- Second, you will notice that itching has gone away, alleviating much of the discomfort associated with the infection.
- Third, you will notice that any rash, swelling, or redness has subsided. Your genitals should return to a healthy appearance and feel.
Other forms of yeast infection, like a yeast infection of the breast , may take longer to completely go away.
Talk to your doctor to make sure you are choosing the right treatment option for your yeast infection.
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Is Vagisil Or Monistat More Effective
It is difficult to compare the two drugs because they work differently. Vagisil can help with external itching, but will not cure a yeast infection. Therefore, if the itching is due to a yeast infection, Vagisil may help relieve symptoms temporarily, but will not cure the yeast infection that is causing the symptoms. If you are experiencing itching due to local irritation not associated with a yeast infection, Vagisil may be helpful, while Monistat would not be an effective treatment.
Monistat has been shown to be effective as an antifungal and will help cure a yeast infection. Using the external cream in the combination pack can help relieve symptoms while you wait for the infection to be cured.
You can always check with your doctor to see if Vagisil or Monistat is an appropriate choice for you because he or she should be familiar with your medical condition and history.
Symptoms Of A Yeast Infection
The symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection may be mild, moderate, or severe depending on how bad the infection is and your individual reaction to it. Some women experience only some of the below symptoms and have only mild discomfort, while others can have a different combination of symptoms and more discomfort. Common symptoms of yeast infections include:
- Redness and swelling in the vulva
- Vaginal pain and/or soreness
- A burning sensation, especially while urinating or having vaginal intercourse
- Thick and white odorless vaginal discharge with the texture and appearance of cottage cheese
- Watery vaginal discharge
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What To Expect From Prescription Treatment
If you have severe symptoms or OTC medication doesnt clear up your infection, you may need a prescription medication. Your healthcare provider may also recommend taking antifungal medications regularly if you get frequent yeast infections.
Prescription yeast infection medications, such as fluconazole , are taken by mouth. Youll usually only need one dose, but you may be prescribed two doses for very severe symptoms.
Other prescription yeast infection treatments include vaginal antifungal medications you can use for up to two weeks.
Your doctor may also recommend boric acid, another vaginal treatment, that can help treat yeast infections that dont respond to antifungal medications.
If you get a yeast infection while pregnant, OTC topical treatments can provide relief. Your healthcare provider wont prescribe fluconazole, as it can increase the risk of birth defects.
Still, its important to follow up with your healthcare provider if youre pregnant and have a yeast infection thats not getting better.
So Which Monistat Is Best
Based on countless reviews I studies as well as medical recommendations for vaginal yeast infection treatment, Monistat 7 is the best option.
A seven-day treatment makes it much less likely for a news yeast infection to develop within a few weeks and the cure rate is higher than that of Monistat 1 and 3.
One big disadvantage of Monistat is that many women complain from extreme itching and burning during their treatment. Its because some may be sensitive to miconazole and suffer a mild allergic reaction.
If it happens to you, I recommend switching to a different treatment thats less likely to give you any side effects.
You should seek medical help if you experience:
- severe vaginal burning, itching, and swelling that doesnt go away
- abdominal pain, headache, hives, skin rash
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Can Pregnancy Cause Vaginal Yeast Infections
Women who are pregnant are more likely to get a vaginal yeast infection due to the increased estrogen levels. Only 7-day topical yeast infection treatments are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the treatment of yeast infections in pregnant women. If you are pregnant and think you have a vaginal yeast infection, talk to your healthcare professional before using any product to treat the infection.
Should I Use Monistat 1 3 Or 7
It is your preference as to which dose you choose. MONISTAT® 1 is our highest strength, one-day, one-dose product that has the highest concentration of medication per dose . MONISTAT® 3 is a regular strength, three-day, three-dose product that has a lower concentration of medication per dose . MONISTAT® 7 is a low dose, seven-day, seven-dose product that contains the lowest concentration of medication per dose . All three dosage strengths are similarly effective in curing yeast infections in the same amount of time. Regardless of which dose you choose, if your symptoms do not get better in 3 days or symptoms last more than 7 days, these may be signs that you may have a more serious medical condition so stop the use of the product and contact your healthcare professional.
Need help? Use our product selector tool and answer a few simple questions for a Monistat® recommendation based on your needs and preferences.
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How Long Does A Yeast Infection Usually Last
Sometimes mild yeast infections will go away on their own within a few days. But most times, yeast infections get worse without treatment. So as soon as you start noticing symptoms, your best bet is to contact your healthcare provider. They can diagnose you and suggest an over-the-counter or prescription antifungal treatment. Once you start taking this, your yeast infection should clear up within about a week.
Warnings Of Vagisil And Monistat
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Vagisil warnings:
- Vagisil is intended for external use only and applied to the affected area. Do not apply to large areas of the body.
- Avoid contact with the eyes.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- If symptoms do not improve within 7 days, consult your doctor.
Monistat warnings:
- Consult a doctor if you have never been diagnosed with a yeast infection. Do not use Monistat unless you have previously been diagnosed with a vaginal yeast infection. A yeast infection can have similar symptoms to bacterial vaginosis, so if this is the first time you are experiencing symptoms, it is best to get evaluated by a doctor.
- Check with your doctor before using Monistat if:
- Your symptoms are accompanied by lower abdominal, back, or shoulder pain, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge. These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition.
- You have vaginal yeast infections often.
- You have been exposed to HIV.
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