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8 Best Yeast Infection Treatments: OTC, Creams, Pills, And More
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The best yeast infection treatments are often available over-the-counter (OTC). We cover the best options including creams, pills, and vaginal suppositories.
Which over-the-counter treatments are most safe and effective?
"Most topical over-the-counter treatments (azols like monistat and Terazol) are equally effective and use of 1, 3 or 7 day therapy should be based on cost, availability and patient preference." — Valinda Nwadike MD, MPH
We considered many prescription and OTC yeast infection treatments before choosing our favorites. All of our top picks have scientific evidence of their effectiveness.
However, do not use these as a substitute for medication. People should contact a doctor immediately if these remedies do not relieve symptoms.
Fluconazole is a generic version of the prescription pill Diflucan, which people can take to treat yeast infections.
People need to take a single pill first. If symptoms do not improve after 2 days, they can take a second pill.
Online pharmacies, such as Wisp, offer quick delivery of fluconazole. Wisp can also provide same-day or rushed prescriptions to a person's local pharmacy.
A one-time purchase costs $65, while a quarterly subscription costs $15 a month.
Read our review of Wisp.
Wisp offers subscriptions for people who regularly have yeast infections. The pharmacy accepts FSA and HSA cards as payment.
This product may be most suitable for people who regularly develop yeast infections or when creams have not worked.
Pros & consThe makers of Uqora Promote say the product promotes vaginal health rather than specifically targeting yeast infections.
It contains Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. Acidophilus), Lactobacillus rhamnosus (L. Rhamnosus), and Lactobacillus reuteri, which the company claims can help balance vaginal bacteria.
Some research suggests Lactobacilli, such as L. Acidophilus and L. Rhamnosus, show promise in preventing vaginal infections.
The company recommends taking this supplement daily with a glass of water.
Uqora Promote may be suitable as a preventive treatment for people who regularly get yeast infections. It is vegan-friendly and gluten-free, meaning it may also suit people following certain diets.
Read our review of Uqora.
BBB reviews
On BBB, the average review rating is 1.5 out of 5. Customers complain about difficulty canceling subscriptions.
Pros & consBonafide claims that one daily Clairvee pill over 15 days can reduce:
A single box of Clairvee costs $55 and each box contains 15 pills. Alternatively, the monthly plan costs $39 a month and the 3-month plan costs $35 a month.
Bonafide claims that Clairvee keeps the vaginal microbiome balanced month after month. This supports the vagina's natural defenses and helps to prevent symptoms from developing.
Clairvee uses live probiotic strains specific to the vaginal flora to target the cause of a person's symptoms.
The brand states that this product will suit people experiencing hormonal fluctuations associated with perimenopause or menopause. It may also help people who regularly experience vaginal discomfort, itching, or discharge.
A person cannot use their insurance to cover the cost of Bonafide's products. However, if a person has a HSA or FSA card, they should check with their insurance provider as to whether it can cover part or all of the cost.
BBB reviews
On BBB, the average review rating is 1.2 out of 5. However, there are just 5 reviews, meaning this set of reviews does not reflect the experiences of a wide range of people. These reviews feature complaints about problems with automatic shipping.
Pros & consMonistat is available in several U.S. Pharmacies and retail stores, including Walmart. It provides treatment options that include 1, 3, and 7 days' worth of doses.
This product comes as internal suppositories and external creams with applicators that help people place the yeast infection treatment in the right area. Some packs include additional topical itch medications to help ease symptoms.
Each applicator contains 200 milligrams (mg) of miconazole nitrate, a medication that treats fungal infections.
This product is most suited to people who currently have a yeast infection and would like to try multiple methods to treat it. However, the 1-day dose can be too potent for some people, adding to the irritation of the vulva. In these cases, the 3- or 7-day options may be more suitable.
Read our review of Monistat.
Pros & consFemiClear's 2-day yeast infection treatment includes two suppositories a person inserts into their vagina and an external anti-itch ointment for symptom relief.
The product contains calendula, tea tree oil, olive extract, beeswax, and olive oil to combat itching and discomfort.
The company recommends using this yeast infection treatment before bed or wearing a panty liner to ensure that it does not leak.
The FDA classes this product as an unapproved homeopathic treatment. It states it has not tested it for safety or efficacy. The FDA writes that it is not aware of scientific research that supports the effectiveness of homeopathic remedies.
This may best suit individuals who currently have a yeast infection and prefer to use organic ingredients. However, it is unsuitable for vegans because it contains beeswax.
Read our review of FemiClear.
Pros & consThe Killer by Love Wellness aims to prevent yeast infections from developing and claims to keep vaginal bacteria healthy.
The capsule contains boric acid, which may be effective in treating recurrent yeast infections that have not responded to antifungal treatments.
Learn more about using boric acid to treat yeast infections.
The brand recommends inserting this vaginal suppository once a day before bed for up to 14 days, as necessary. The brand also recommends the best times to use The Killer might be after sex, after a period, or when a person is experiencing symptoms of a pH imbalance.
The FDA classes this product as an unapproved homeopathic treatment. It states it has not tested it for safety or efficacy. The FDA writes it is not aware of scientific research that supports the effectiveness of homeopathic remedies.
The Killer is suitable for anyone who may be prone to vaginal yeast infections. Love Wellness does not recommend a person to have sexual intercourse while using this product.
Pros & consThis CVS Health treatment comes with seven doses of disposable internal applicators and external cream.
Each applicator contains 100 mg of miconazole nitrate. The manufacturer recommends people insert an applicator before going to bed. People dispose of the applicator immediately after use.
The treatment is available both in-store and online. It may best suit individuals who would prefer a product that works while they sleep. However, a person should not use this if a doctor has not yet given them a diagnosis of a yeast infection.
BBB reviews
On BBB, the average review rating is 1.11 out of 5. Customers complain about problems using gift cards, but others found the service effective for deals on products.
Pros & consSesame Care offers same-day online doctor visits for people with yeast infections, as well as many other health and medical issues.
A person can also book online to request an online doctor prescription or refill for yeast infection treatments.
Sesame offers a choice of physicians that a person can select to meet with online. Prices for a same-day video appointment start from $29 for members.
Joining Sesame Plus for $10.99 a month or $99 a year allows a person to save $10 on all telehealth and primary care visits and provides one free lab test worth $65 each year.
If a Sesame physician determines that a person needs a prescription for a yeast infection, Sesame sends the prescription directly to the person's pharmacy for collection the same day.
A person cannot combine Sesame Membership with their insurance or Medicare.
BBB reviews
On BBB, the average review rating is 3.95 out of 5. Customers left positive reviews about the level of patient care, but others complained about issues with refilling prescriptions.
Pros & consThe table below compares each of the products for price, ingredients, and more.
Vaginal yeast infection symptoms are often mild.
Signs that a person has a yeast infection can include:
If a person develops a severe infection, they may experience:
A person should contact a doctor if they experience any of these symptoms.
A yeast infection develops from an overgrowth of Candida, most commonly Candida albicans. Experts estimate around 70% of females will experience a Candida yeast infection at some point, and 8% will have recurrent infections.
The body can usually handle Candida without the fungus causing any problems. However, people with chronic conditions, such as diabetes and HIV, as well as people who have obesity or take antibiotics, are more likely to experience Candida overgrowth.
When the Candida fungus penetrates the mucosal lining of the vagina, it causes inflammation. This inflammation then leads to yeast infection symptoms such as thick discharge, itchiness, and swelling.
Doctors typically recommend OTC antifungal medications to treat a vaginal yeast infection.
Treatments may come as one single dose or a daily dose over several days. A person can read the dosing instructions carefully to ensure they use the correct dosage.
Some of the products in this article are classed as homeopathic treatments. There are no Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved homeopathic products. This means any product sold in the United States and marketed as homeopathic is not FDA approved, and the FDA has not tested it for safety or effectiveness.
What is the 3 day OTC yeast infection treatment?Monistat is a popular 3-day OTC yeast infection treatment option. There are also several other 3-day OTC yeast infection treatments that include miconazole, an ingredient that can help reduce yeast infection symptoms quickly.
Monistat is a popular 3-day OTC yeast infection treatment option. There are also several other 3-day OTC yeast infection treatments that include miconazole, an ingredient that can help reduce yeast infection symptoms quickly.
Is Monistat 1 or 3 better?According to Monistat, all of its miconazole yeast infection treatments are just as effective as each other, regardless of whether a person buys the 1-, 3-, or 7-day treatment.
According to Monistat, all of its miconazole yeast infection treatments are just as effective as each other, regardless of whether a person buys the 1-, 3-, or 7-day treatment.
What is the fastest way to get rid of a yeast infection?The fastest way to eliminate a yeast infection is to use an antifungal medication on the skin or inside the vagina. People can also get oral pill treatments for yeast infections.
The fastest way to eliminate a yeast infection is to use an antifungal medication on the skin or inside the vagina. People can also get oral pill treatments for yeast infections.
Can a yeast infection go away on its own?A mild yeast infection may go away by itself. However, this is unlikely.
People can only effectively treat fungus overgrowth with prescription antifungals or certain OTC treatments, such as suppositories containing boric acid.
A mild yeast infection may go away by itself. However, this is unlikely.
People can only effectively treat fungus overgrowth with prescription antifungals or certain OTC treatments, such as suppositories containing boric acid.
How can I get rid of a yeast infection without going to a doctor?A person may be able to get rid of a yeast infection without going to a doctor by trying over-the-counter products or alternative therapies.
Some treatments people try at home include over-the-counter antifungal treatments, boric acid, tea tree oil, probiotic supplements, natural yogurt, coconut oil, garlic, and oregano oil.
However, it is important to exercise caution when trying at-home treatments or alternative therapies. People should always speak with a doctor before trying these remedies.
A person may be able to get rid of a yeast infection without going to a doctor by trying over-the-counter products or alternative therapies.
Some treatments people try at home include over-the-counter antifungal treatments, boric acid, tea tree oil, probiotic supplements, natural yogurt, coconut oil, garlic, and oregano oil.
However, it is important to exercise caution when trying at-home treatments or alternative therapies. People should always speak with a doctor before trying these remedies.
Yeast infections are often mild. A person can typically treat them using OTC medications. Medications come in different forms and doses, so it is important to follow the instructions on the package.
A person should not self-diagnose a yeast infection. Many symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses and conditions.
Once a doctor diagnoses the infection and a person treats it, they should notice symptom improvement.
Yeast Infection: Signs & Symptoms
A yeast infection can feel like itching or even burning. Or you may have swelling so extreme, it leads to sores. Sexual intercourse may be painful. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, a yeast infection can be uncomfortable.
Yeast infections are caused by a fungus. It generally causes your vagina and vulva (the tissues at the opening of the vagina) or your penis to itch. You may also have a discharge.
Knowing how to spot the symptoms of a yeast infection can help you get the most effective treatment.
A yeast infection is a condition caused by a fungus that can lead to itchiness of your vagina and vulva (the tissues at the opening of the vagina) or penis. It can also cause a discharge. Yeast infections are a common type of vaginitis or vaginal infection. Knowing how to spot the signs and symptoms can help you get the most effective treatment. (Photo credit: KATERYNA KON/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/Getty Images)
Your vulva and vaginal opening or your penis may look red, swollen, and irritated. There may be a white coating or shiny sores on your vaginal or penile tissue. Your discharge may be different than normal. Your symptoms will vary depending on how severe your infection is.
Yeast infection discharge
It may be watery or thicker and look like cottage cheese. It's usually whitish to yellowish in color. A vaginal yeast infection shouldn't smell different than normal. Symptoms can vary from person to person.
Your symptoms depend on where the infection is and how your body responds. Your symptoms may be mild, moderate, or severe. Or you may have no noticeable symptoms.
Vaginal yeast infection symptoms
Yeast infections are a common type of vaginitis or vaginal infection. Three of every four women and people with a vagina get one in their lifetime. And many have more than one.
Also known as vaginal candidiasis, if you have a vaginal yeast infection, you'll most likely have extreme itching in and around your vagina; this is the most common symptom. In addition to itching, you might also have:
Penile yeast infection symptoms
A penile yeast infection is also called candida balanitis. This can happen when there's an overgrowth of fungus on the penis or if you have sex with a partner who has a vaginal yeast infection.
About 3%-11% of men and people assigned male at birth will get a yeast infection in their lifetime. It tends to happen on moist, warm, creased areas of skin such as the head of the penis and foreskin.
It's more common if you aren't circumcised and for children under age 4. About 1 in 30 uncircumcised people will develop a yeast infection. It's also more common if you have phimosis, which means the foreskin doesn't easily pull back over the penis.
The symptoms include:
Sometimes the symptoms of a yeast infection can be more serious and require extra care. Or you may get repeated infections. You might need a longer course of treatment or a prevention plan with your doctor to keep the infection from coming back. Severe yeast infections are also called complicated yeast infections.
You can get a more complicated infection if:
Your infection might also be more complicated if it's caused by a different type of fungus than what commonly causes yeast infections. This can mean the usual over-the-counter treatments are not as effective.
Signs of a complicated infection include:
Vaginal yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis (BV) are different types of vaginitis. BV is caused by bacteria rather than a fungus. Both infections can cause itching and a burning feeling when you pee. However, other symptoms are not the same.
You may have BV rather than a yeast infection if your vagina has a bad smell or if you have a thin, white, green, or gray discharge.
See your doctor if you think you may have BV or if you're not sure what infection you have.
Both infections may cause discomfort and a burning sensation when you pee. But while a yeast infection causes symptoms like vaginal itching and a thick or watery odorless discharge, a urinary tract infection (UTI) does not. If you have a UTI, you may have these symptoms instead:
Call your doctor if your symptoms don't improve within 72 hours of starting treatment. Call right away if you have any signs of a complicated infection.
You should also make an appointment with your doctor if:
If you think you have a yeast infection but aren't sure, it's important to see your doctor for a proper diagnosis. Your doctor can also let you know if something else may be causing your problems.
Treatment can help relieve your symptoms, keep an infection from becoming severe, and prevent you from spreading any potential infections during sex.
If you have itching around your vagina or penis and a thick, white, chunky, or watery discharge, there's a chance you have a yeast infection. Call your doctor if you're not sure. Over-the-counter treatments often provide relief in a few days.
The 7 Best Home Remedies For A Tooth Infection
If you've got a persistent and throbbing toothache that seems to get worse when you chew or bite down on something, you very well may have a tooth infection. Also known as dental abscesses, tooth infections are relatively common and can unfortunately occur at any time—and at any age, says dentist Mary Jo Sandberg, DDS, owner of Sandberg Dental in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
"A tooth infection can happen when the bacteria from a severely decayed tooth gains access to the pulp inside the tooth where the nerves and blood supply reside," she explains. "This can happen as a result of a traumatic event, like a fall or blow to the tooth that damages the connection between the tooth and supporting structures, or a severe infection of the gums around the tooth that reach the tooth's root tip." Sometimes the origin of the infection can even be unknown, she adds.
While anyone can get a tooth infection, those most prone to it are people who have poor oral hygiene or those with gum disease, dry mouth, or a high rate of cavities, says Marie M. Jackson, DMD, dentist and member of the Listerine advisory board. Gum disease greatly increases the risk of infection, she adds. "This is because it exposes the roots of teeth, which are not protected by enamel and are more susceptible to decay and subsequent infection issues."
If you think you're truly suffering from a tooth infection, contact your dentist as soon as possible so they can determine the best way to treat you. This might include draining the abscess, pulling the infected tooth, and/or prescribing antibiotics, per the Mayo Clinic. In the meantime, here are a few at-home remedies for a tooth infection (many of which also work as home remedies for a toothache) that can help alleviate your discomfort while you wait for your appointment.
TIPDo not try to get rid of a tooth abscess without going to the dentist. This is dangerous, as the infection can spread to nearby teeth, your jaw, or other areas of your body and cause more serious complications.
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1. Keep your head elevatedWhen you have a toothache or tooth infection, keeping your head elevated can help prevent any blood and bacteria from pooling in your mouth, Dr. Sandberg says. While you're likely sitting and standing upright during the day, sleep may be tricky when you're battling a tooth infection. Consider going to sleep with your head propped up by pillows to maximize your comfort and reduce your pain.
2. Over-the-counter pain relieversIf there is pain and swelling, Alice Hoang, DDS, general dentist and co-owner of Brooklyn Mint Dental in Brooklyn, New York, recommends taking a combination of ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol). Both will help manage the pain, and the ibuprofen will help tame inflammation and swelling.
You can take these medications at the same time, but it's important that you follow the directions on the label of each product and avoid taking too much of either drug (pay attention to both the dosage and the time in between doses).
Note that this advice is only for adults and children ages 12 and older; for younger children, ask their pediatrician what pain relievers are okay to use. You should also check with your doctor if you're taking any prescription medications.
"Drinking soft drinks with sugar and beverages that are acidic can increase the risk of tooth decay that leads to infection." —Marie M. Jackson, DMD, dentist
3. Saltwater rinseRinsing with salt water can be an effective home remedy for a tooth infection in that it may help keep the infection from worsening significantly until you are able to see a dentist. The salt water works to ensure that the area is kept free of food debris, which can be irritating, explains Dr. Hoang.
Here's how to do it:
Because it's very likely that your gums will be swollen and painful, you can help to alleviate both symptoms by applying a cold compress. Cold naturally numbs the gums, which is why you're often sent home with an ice pack after a dental procedure.
Simply wrap an ice pack or small bag of ice cubes in a clean cloth and apply it to the outside of your mouth, near where your pain is located. Ideally, hold the compress there for about 10 to 15 minutes, then remove it for the same amount of time. Repeat as needed throughout the day.
5. Cloves or clove oilCloves, the aromatic flower buds that have become a popular spice and aromatic for all sorts of culinary endeavors, have natural analgesic and antibacterial properties that can help relieve toothache pain, according to a 2017 study in Critical Reviews in Microbiology.
Apply a small amount of clove oil directly to the affected tooth or chew on a whole clove. Be careful not to apply clove oil directly to the gums, though, as it can cause irritation.
6. GarlicGarlic has long been hailed for its antibacterial properties. In fact, it's been used medicinally since ancient times, according to a 2021 paper in Antioxidants. While it might not be the most pleasant way to alleviate discomfort from a tooth infection, especially if you're not a fan of garlic to begin with, it can help cut down on pain. You can use garlic as a toothpaste—simply crush it or use a garlic paste and apply to the infected area.
7. Hydrogen peroxide rinseYou may have this mild antiseptic lying around your house, as it can come in handy to prevent infections of minor cuts or scrapes. It can also be useful if you have a tooth infection, as it can help cut down on inflammation and relieve pain. Research, including one 2016 study in the Journal of International Society of Preventive & Community Dentistry, has also shown that hydrogen peroxide can be especially useful in reducing plaque buildup and treating bleeding gums.
Simply mix hydrogen peroxide with equal parts water and swish as you would with a mouthwash—just make sure not to swallow it.
What should you avoid with a tooth infection?Avoid trying to "treat" the infection yourself to any capacity aside from alleviating pain, notes Dr. Hoang. "Taking old antibiotics you have lying around may not be at the proper dosage and you are unlikely to have enough to finish the recommended duration of daily antibiotics, which will mean the stronger bacteria will survive when the abscess inevitably comes back and it will be more aggressive, require increasingly potent antibiotics, or potentially become antibiotic-resistant," she says.
She also does not recommend the use of any alcohol-based mouthwashes, which are, generally speaking, on the "no-fly" list for regular dental care. "Alcohol can kill the mucosal cells in your mouth that provide immune support and change the quality of saliva to make it easier for bad bacteria to proliferate," she says. (So, you may want to cool it on cocktails, too.)
How to prevent a tooth infectionThe best way to prevent a tooth infection is to make sure you're up-to-date with your biannual dental checkups, as these visits allow your dentist to see areas of your mouth that may be decayed and potential gum disease (which can lead to infection), and they can also pick up an existing infection on your X-rays. "Many tooth infections can be seen on X-rays and may not exhibit symptoms yet, so getting to the dentist and having screenings are vital in minimizing the potential for dental emergencies due to infections," says Dr. Jackson.
Oral hygiene is also paramount. In addition to brushing with a soft toothbrush twice a day for a minimum of two minutes and flossing once a day, Dr. Jackson recommends incorporating mouthwash into your oral care routine. "Rinsing with mouthwash twice a day fights bacteria in the whole mouth that brushing and flossing can't do alone," she says.
It's also vital to be mindful when it comes to your eating and drinking habits to reduce the likelihood of tooth decay and infection. "Processed carbohydrates feed bacteria that lead to tooth infection, so be sure to minimize the frequency of your processed carbohydrate intake," she says (think: packaged snacks, sweets, and white bread, rice, and pasta). "Drinking soft drinks with sugar and beverages that are acidic can also increase the risk of tooth decay that leads to infection."
Instead, prioritize foods that are good for your teeth, like crunchy, leafy veggies and fresh fruits.
FAQ Can you get rid of a tooth infection without antibiotics?The only way to get rid of a tooth infection is to have the tooth treated by a dentist. Antibiotics only temporarily relieve tooth infections, explains Dr. Jackson. "Teeth work like miniature boxes that trap bacteria long term—the only way to stop bacteria trapped in the tooth causing a tooth infection is to either have the tooth extracted or to have root canal treatment where the infected nerve tissue is removed," she says.
Does baking soda help with tooth infection?According to Dr. Sandberg, baking soda has no effect on an infected tooth. "Baking soda is sometimes used as a toothpaste and can help clean your teeth, but once a tooth has gotten infected there are only two choices: remove it or have a root canal treatment," she adds.
How long can a tooth infection go untreated?Unfortunately, there's no way to predict how long an infected tooth can go untreated, as it depends on the nature of the infection, its location, and the health and habits of the person it is infecting, says Dr. Hoang. "In general, if you're asking yourself this question, you should go ahead and make that dental appointment so we can help you avoid pain, irreversible damage, and/or expensive treatment," she says.
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