Generic Name: miconazole
Brand Names: Monistat, Micatin, M-Zole
Drug Class: Antifungals, Topical
What is miconazole, and what is it used for?
Miconazole is an antifungal medication related to fluconazole (Diflucan), ketoconazole (Nizoral), itraconazole (Sporanox), and clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex). It is used either on the skin or vaginally for vaginal yeast infections, ringworm, athlete's foot, and severe fungal infections. Miconazole was approved by the FDA in 1974.
What are the side effects of miconazole?
Irritation, burning, rash and itching have been reported by patients using topical or vaginal miconazole.
What is the dosage for miconazole?
Miconazole vaginal cream and suppositories are for use only in the vagina. These products are not to be taken by mouth. The vaginal suppositories are inserted, one per dose, in an applicator.
- Alternatively, the tube containing the vaginal cream is screwed onto the end of a special applicator tube, and the tube is then squeezed to fill the applicator.
- The patient then lies on her back with bent knees, inserts the applicator containing either the suppository or cream so that the tip of the applicator is high in the vagina, and then pushes the plunger in to deposit the suppository or cream into the vagina.
- The applicator should be washed with warm soap and water after each use.
Miconazole usually is used once daily at bedtime. The 200 mg suppositories (Monistat 3) are inserted once nightly for 3 nights. The 100 mg suppositories (Monistat-7) and intravaginal cream are inserted once nightly for 7 nights. The 1200 mg formulation (Monistat 1) is applied once for one night.
For fungal skin infections, the topical cream is applied as a thin layer to cover the affected skin and surrounding area, usually once or twice daily for 2-4 weeks. The hands should be washed before and after application.
QUESTION
The vagina includes the labia, clitoris, and uterus. See AnswerWhich drugs interact with miconazole?
- There are no known drug interactions with vaginal or topical miconazole.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- There is very limited information on the use of miconazole during pregnancy. The physician must weigh the potential benefits against possible but unknown risks to the fetus.
- It is not known if miconazole is secreted in breast milk in amounts that can affect the infant.
What else should I know about miconazole?
What preparations of miconazole are available?
Preparations are as follows:
- Vaginal suppositories: 100 and 200 mg;
- Vaginal cream: 2 and 4%;
- Topical cream, aerosol powder, spray or tincture: 2%.
- Combination Packs: 100, 200, or 1200 mg suppository plus 2% vaginal cream.
How should I keep miconazole stored?
All formulations should be stored at room temperature, 15 C to 30 C (59 F TO 86 F).
Health News
- Social Media Increases Risk Of Depression, Study Says
- Warnings About Cancer-Alcohol Link Can Be Made Stronger, Researchers Say
- High Fertility Costs Push Americans Abroad For IVF Treatment
- Live Near A Dry Cleaner? You Might Have A Higher Risk For This Devastating Neurological Condition
- Home Rehab Delays Linked To Poorer Recovery After Hip And Knee Replacement
More Health News »
Summary
Miconazole is an antifungal drug used either topically or vaginally to treat vaginal yeast infections, ringworm, athlete’s foot, jock itch, and several other fungal infections of the skin. Side effects of miconazole include irritation, burning, rash, and itching. Consult your doctor before taking miconazole if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Multimedia: Slideshows, Images & Quizzes
-
Picture of Ringworm Tinea Corporis (Faciei)Ringworm infection on a 51-year-old woman's skin. Ringworm (tinea) is a disease caused by a fungal infection of the skin. It can...
-
Picture of Ringworm Tinea PedisClose-up of athlete's foot (tinea pedis) on the foot of a 66year old man. See a picture of Ringworm Tinea Pedis and learn more...
-
Picture of Ringworm Tinea Unguium (Onychomycosis)Ringworm - Tinea unguium or onchomycosis is a chronic fungal infection of the nails. It is normally caused by the dermatophyte...
-
Picture of FolliculitisFolliculitis. Folliculitis affects skin around a hair follicle, usually causing tender, pus-filled inflammations. It can happen...
-
-
Yeast Infection Quiz: Symptoms & TreatmentHow much do you know about vaginal yeast infections? Learn the causes, symptoms, and treatments of a yeast infection with the...
-
Fungal Skin Infections: Types, Symptoms, and TreatmentFungal skin infections and fungal nail infections produce symptoms like red, itchy, circular rashes and thick, discolored, flaky...
-
Picture of Ringworm of the NailsThis is the most common fungal infection of the nails, also called onychomycosis. See a picture of Ringworm of the Nails and...
-
Picture of Onychomycosis (Fungal Nail Infection)The most common fungus infection of the nails is onychomycosis. See a picture of Onychomycosis (Fungal Nail Infection) and learn...
-
Picture of Pet RingwormRingworm is an example of a zoonotic disease (transmitted from animals to humans). See a picture of Pet Ringworm and learn more...
-
Picture of Ringworm of the HandRingworm may involve the hands, particularly the palms and the spaces between the fingers. See a picture of Ringworm of the Hand...
-
Picture of Athlete's Foot 2Athlete's foot is a fungus that causes itching, redness, and cracking. See a picture of Athlete's Foot and learn more about the...
-
Picture of Fungal Nail InfectionNails that are infected with a fungus may become discolored (yellowish-brown or opaque), thick and brittle, and may separate from...
-
Picture of Yeast Infections (Thrush in Babies)Thrush is a yeast infection that causes white patches in the mouth and on the tongue. See a picture of Yeast Infection (Thrush)...
-
Picture of Types of RingwormRingworm is a common skin disorder otherwise known as tinea. See a picture of Types of Ringworm and learn more about the health...
-
Picture of Ringworm IllustrationRingworm is a fungal infection of the skin previously thought to be due to a parasite (worm). See a picture of Ringworm and learn...
-
Picture of RingwormThis superficial skin infection, also known as tinea, is caused by fungi called dermatophytes. See a picture of Ringworm and...
-
Picture of Athlete's Foot 1Athlete's foot is caused by a fungus that grows on or in the top layer of skin. See a picture of Athlete's Foot and learn more...
-
Picture of Baby Yeast InfectionsThrush is a yeast infection that causes white patches in the mouth and on the tongue. See a picture of Baby Yeast Infections and...
-
Ringworm: Treatment, Pictures, Causes, and SymptomsWhat is ringworm? How do you get rid of ringworm? View ringworm pictures on the scalp and body and learn about ringworm...
Related Disease Conditions
-
RingwormThe term "ringworm" refers to a fungal infection on the surface of the skin. A physical examination of the affected skin, evaluation of skin scrapings under the microscope, and culture tests can help doctors make the appropriate distinctions. A proper diagnosis is essential to successful treatment. The different types of ringworm include the following: tinea barbae, tinea capitis, tinea corporis, tinea cruris, tinea faciei, tinea manus, tinea pedis, and tinea unguium.
-
Jock ItchJock itch is an itchy red rash that appears in the groin area. The rash may be caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. People with diabetes and those who are obese are more susceptible to developing jock itch. Antifungal shampoos, creams, and pills may be needed to treat fungal jock itch. Bacterial jock itch may be treated with antibacterial soaps and topical and oral antibiotics.
-
How Can I Get Rid of a Yeast Infection Quickly?Yeast infections are caused by a yeast fungus called candida. Learn the safe & effective remedies that can help ease symptoms.
-
Are Yeast Infections Contagious?Yeast is a fungus that has many types. A type of yeast that can cause infection in humans is called Candida. Candida can infect the mouth, vagina, penis, or other areas of the body. Symptoms of yeast infections depend on the area infected, however, may include itching, bumps on the skin, a reddish rash, or patches of skin that ooze a clear or yellow liquid. Most yeast infections are not contagious even though they are caused by a fungus.
-
What Are the 4 Types of Fungal Infection?The 4 most common types of fungal infections include athlete’s foot, ringworm, jock itch, and genital candidiasis.
-
Yeast Infections: How Do You Know When It Is Healing?Vaginal yeast infections are the most frequent, causing itching, redness, discharge, and pain. Most yeast infections resolve within a week after therapy.
-
Vaginal Yeast InfectionVaginal yeast infections in women are caused by an organism called Candida albicans. Symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection include vaginal pain with urination, vaginal discharge, odor, and itching. Treatment is generally OTC medications. A man can contract a yeast infection from his female sexual partner. Symptoms of a yeast infection in men include penile itching. Treatment is with oral or topical medication.
-
How Do You Get Rid of a Yeast Infection In Your Mouth (Oral Thrush, Candidiasis)?Learn what medical treatments can ease a yeast infection in your mouth, ease the symptoms of oral thrush, and speed up your recovery.
-
Athlete's FootAthlete's foot (tinea pedis) is a skin infection caused by the ringworm fungus. Symptoms include itching, burning, cracking, peeling, and bleeding feet. Treatment involves keeping the feet dry and clean, wearing shoes that can breathe, and using medicated powders to keep your feet dry.
-
Yeast Infection vs. Diaper RashYeast diaper rash in kids is caused by Candida fungus. Learn about yeast infections and diaper rashes in infants and toddlers.
-
IntertrigoIntertrigo is a rash, usually found in skin folds, that is caused by rubbing, increased temperature, and moisture. Affected areas may be treated with a weak topical steroid and barrier cream.
-
Is Clotrimazole Good for Fungal Infection?Clotrimazole can be used to treat fungal skin infections and is typically applied topically. Learn about how to use clotrimazole as well as precautions and potential side effects. Check out the center below for more medical references on fungal skin infections, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related diseases, treatment, diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.
-
Dandruff (Seborrhea)Dandruff (seborrhea) is a skin disorder that results from neither too much moisture nor too much oil. Dandruff can be treated with shampoos that contain tar, salicylic acid, zinc, selenium sulfide, or ketoconazole.
-
Oral Thrush in ChildrenYeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of a type of fungus called Candida. Oral thrush is a yeast infection of the mouth and throat. Oral thrush and yeast infections are treated orally or topically with an antifungal antibiotic called nystatin.
-
Yeast infections vs. STDs in Men and WomenSTDs, also termed sexually transmitted diseases, are infections that are mainly transmitted to others during direct sexual contact. A yeast infection is the invasion and multiplication of a fungus (yeast) in or on the body.
-
What Happens if You Don't Treat a Yeast Infection?Yeast infections are contagious. They can be transmitted through sexual contact. Those with weak immunity have a high risk of the infection. Yeast infections can be vaginal (candidiasis), oral (thrush) or penile. Untreated yeast infections may spread to other areas, cause symptoms or pass to others.
-
Why Do I Keep Getting Athlete's Foot?Athlete’s foot is a contagious fungal infection, often beginning with itchiness between the toes. Learn what causes it, how doctors diagnose and treat it, and what you can do to keep it from coming back.
-
How Do You Get Rid of Athlete's Foot Fast?Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) is caused by a variety of fungi belonging to a group of fungi called dermatophytes, which also causes ringworm and jock itch. Rarely, an athlete’s foot may be caused by nondermatophytes infection, such as yeast (candida). Athlete's foot usually begins between the toes, presenting with a scaly rash associated with itching, stinging, and burning.
-
Tinea VersicolorTinea versicolor is a fungus infection that mainly affects the skin of young people. Recognized by light or reddish brown spots, and areas lighter than the surrounding skin. Tinea versicolor is caused by yeast actually found in our skin. Factors like heat, humidity, and sweat help it proliferate in people, resulting in a rash that is not contagious to others.
-
What Conditions Can Be Mistaken for a Yeast Infection?Around 75% of women experience at least one yeast infection at some point in their lives. Conditions that can be mistaken for a yeast infection include STDs, bacterial vaginosis, skin conditions, and UTIs.
-
Yeast Infection vs. Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)Yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (BV) both cause vaginal discharge. Yeast infection discharge is thick, white, and had a cottage cheese consistency. BV discharge is whitish-gray and is thinner. Vaginal odor, irritation, and pain may also be present. Treatment of yeast infections includes over-the-counter and prescription antifungals. BV treatment involves antibiotics.
-
How Can I Treat a Yeast Infection While Pregnant?Vaginal yeast infections are fungal infections that cause irritation and vaginal discharge. You can treat a vaginal yeast infection while pregnant with vaginal creams or suppositories, non-prescription medications, or medications that have been proven safe and effective in pregnant women.
-
What Is the Main Cause of a Yeast Infection?Yeast infections are mainly caused by yeast-like fungus named Candida or Monilia. Yeast infections may affect the skin, mouth or vagina. Your doctor will use different methods of testing yeast infections depending on the area of your infection or symptoms.
-
Yeast Infection vs. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)Candida albicans typically causes vaginal yeast infections. Bacterial infections typically cause urinary tract infections (UTIs). Thick white cottage-cheese like vaginal discharge characterizes vaginal yeast infections. Painful, frequent urination characterize urinary tract infections. Antifungal medications treat yeast infections while prescription antibiotics treat UTIs.
-
How Do I Check Myself for a Yeast Infection?If you suspect you have a vaginal yeast infection, you may try an at-home vaginal pH test; however, this test will only help you rule out other infections.
-
What's the Fastest Way to Get Rid of Athlete's Foot?Learn what causes athlete's foot, how to treat it, and how to prevent it from coming back.
-
How Serious Is A Yeast Infection During Pregnancy?A yeast infection, also referred to as vaginal candidiasis, is a fungal infection caused by a type of fungus called candida. Even though a yeast infection is not a threat to you and your child, it can cause you extreme discomfort.
Treatment & Diagnosis
- Drugs: Buying Prescription Drugs Online Safely
- Drugs: The Most Common Medication Errors
- Athlete's Foot: How to Prevent Athlete's Foot
- Medication Disposal
- Pharmacy Visit, How To Get The Most Out of Your Visit
- Indications for Drugs: Approved vs. Non-approved
- Can Yeast Infection Cause Low Back Pain?
- Generic Drugs, Are They as Good as Brand-Names?
Medications & Supplements
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.