Medicines Used for Fungal infections
Fungal infections are infections caused by fungi, including yeasts. Thrush is a common yeast infection of the vagina, penis head and mouth. Many mild infections are treated with antifungal tablets, pessaries or creams, and a pharmacist or doctor can advise. See a doctor if it is a first episode, keeps coming back or does not clear.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
Medicines used for Fungal infections
These active ingredients are in medicines whose approved uses include Fungal infections. Brands are listed A to Z, not ranked. A doctor or pharmacist decides which medicine is right for you.
Clotrimazole
- Candid Cream · 1% skin cream
Fluconazole
- Fluka 150 · 150 mg verify on pack (tablet or capsule)
Itraconazole
- Itrasys 100 · 100 mg capsule
Ketoconazole
- Nizral 2% · 2% medicated shampoo
Common questions
What causes thrush?
Thrush is caused by a yeast called Candida, which normally lives on the skin and in the body without harm. It can overgrow, for example after antibiotics, with diabetes or with a weakened immune system. It is not classed as a sexually transmitted infection.
When should I see a doctor for thrush?
See a doctor if it is your first episode, you are under 16 or over 60, it returns more than four times in a year, you are pregnant or breastfeeding, treatment has not worked or your immune system is weakened.
How long does thrush take to clear?
The NHS says thrush should clear within 7 to 14 days with treatment. If symptoms do not improve or come back, see a doctor rather than repeating treatment on your own.
Sources
- Vaginal thrush. NHS (UK)
- Fluconazole: a medicine for fungal infections and thrush. NHS (UK)
- Fluconazole. MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine