STD Awareness: Is Bacterial Vaginosis a Sexually Transmitted Disease?
8 Best Yeast Infection Treatments: OTC, Creams, Pills, And More
We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here's our process.
How we vet brands and productsMedical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.
Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:Was this helpful?
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.
First Over-the-counter Birth Control Pill Now Available
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — A drug that has been available for decades but only available with a prescription has entered a new era.
"We have a lot of data on this particular medication," Jacquelyn Kissel, associate director of clinical pharmacy with Equitas, said.
CEO of Columbus-based pizza chain retires, new leader announced
That medication Kissel is discussing is called Opill.
The oral contraceptive was approved by the Food and Drug Administration for sale without a prescription last July.
The pill is taken daily and is a progestin-only contraceptive, a hormone Kissel said is a safer medication option especially for those high-risk consumers.
"This is the medication we would want to use in patients with cardiovascular disease or are smokers, or older," she said. "It's a safe medication and we have a lot of data around it, so I feel comfortable with the fact that it's over the counter."
How opportunities for women have changed in television and at NBC4
The advisory committee tasked with evaluating the drug found the over-the-counter availability would be important for teenagers who often face barriers to access.
Opill is available for all users of reproductive age and is currently available at all Equitas Health pharmacies.
"I mean, it takes a lot to go from a provider to a pharmacy to get a prescription and a medication in hand there are a lot of steps and this takes all that away," Kissel said. "For people typically more effected by unplanned pregnancies this really gives them options that they didn't have before."
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
View comments
Metronidazole Vaginal - Uses, Side Effects, And More
Who should not use vaginal metronidazole?Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use vaginal metronidazole.
Drug Interactions. Vaginal metronidazole should not be used while you are using certain other medicines. Before using vaginal metronidazole, tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details.
Alcohol. Potentially serious side effects can occur if vaginal metronidazole is used with either foods or drinks that contain alcohol. Do not drink alcohol or consume foods that contain a type of alcohol called propylene glycol while using vaginal metronidazole. See the Interactions section for more details.
What should I know about vaginal metronidazole before using it?Do not use vaginal metronidazole unless it has been prescribed to you by a healthcare provider. Use it as prescribed.
Do not share vaginal metronidazole with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.
Keep vaginal metronidazole out of the reach of children.
Do not have sex or use vaginal products like tampons or douches when using vaginal metronidazole.
Vaginal metronidazole is only for use in the vagina. If vaginal metronidazole gets in your eyes, splash your eyes with cool water and call your healthcare provider.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before using vaginal metronidazole?Tell your healthcare provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if vaginal metronidazole is right for you.
In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.
Nervous System Problems. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any nervous system diseases like seizures or a condition called peripheral neuropathy before using vaginal metronidazole.
Other Medicines and Supplements. Vaginal metronidazole may interact with other medicines and supplements. Before using vaginal metronidazole, tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section below for more details.
Pregnancy. It is not known if or how vaginal metronidazole could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you are or plan to become pregnant. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should use vaginal metronidazole while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
Breastfeeding. Vaginal metronidazole passes into breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. You may decide to pump your breastmilk and discard it while using vaginal metronidazole and for 2 days after you finish using it. During this time, you may feed your baby previously stored breastmilk or infant formula.
Comments
Post a Comment