Miconazole Description

Generic Name : MICONAZOLE

Pronunciation : (mi kon' a zole)

Trade Name(s) : Canticid, Zole, Gyno-Daktarrin

Why it is prescribed: Miconazole, an antifungal agent, is used for skin infections such as athlete's foot and jock itch and for vaginal yeast infections.

When it is to be taken:
1. Miconazole is usually used once or twice a day in the morning and evening for one month for athlete's foot or two weeks for other skin infections.
2. For vaginal infections, it is used once a day at bedtime for three or seven days. Miconazole must be used regularly to be effective.
3. Follow the instructions on the package or your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor to explain any part that you do not understand.
4. It will probably take several days for improvement to be seen in skin infections.

How it should be taken: Miconazole comes in the form of cream, lotion, powder, spray liquid, and spray powder to be applied to the skin. It also comes in the form of cream and suppositories to be inserted into the vagina. The label on the package or your prescription label tells you how much to use at each dose. Apply the topical forms of miconazole sparingly to the infected area after washing and drying the skin thoroughly. The cream and lotion should be rubbed gently into the skin. Wash your hands promptly. If you are using miconazole vaginal cream or suppositories, read the instructions provided with the medication and follow these steps:
1. Fill the special applicator that comes with the cream to the level indicated, or unwrap a suppository and place it on the applicator as shown in the accompanying instructions.
2. Lie on your back with your knees drawn upward and spread apart.
3. Gently insert the applicator into the vagina, and push the plunger to release the medication.
4. Withdraw the applicator.
5. Discard the applicator if it is disposable. If the applicator is reusable, pull it apart and clean it with soap and warm water after each use.
6. Wash your hands promptly. You may wish to wear a sanitary napkin while using the suppositories or vaginal cream to protect your clothing against stains.
7. Do not use a tampon because it will absorb the drug.
8. Do not douche unless your doctor tells you to do so.
9. Continue using miconazole vaginal cream or suppositories even if you get your period during the time of treatment.

Special Instruction :
1. Continue to use miconazole for as long as directed, even if you think that the infection has disappeared. Failure to use all of the medication could allow the infection to return. If you have used the medication as directed and still have symptoms of the infection, contact your doctor.
2. If you obtained the topical form of miconazole without a prescription and your symptoms do not improve within four weeks, stop using it and consult a doctor.
3. If this is the first time you have had vaginal itching and discomfort, consult a doctor before using miconazole. If a doctor has told you before that you had a yeast infection and you have the same symptoms again, use the vaginal cream or suppositories as directed on the package for seven consecutive days, preferably at night.
4. If you obtained miconazole vaginal cream or suppositories without a prescription and you do not improve within three days, or do not get well in seven days, contact your doctor.
5. If your symptoms return in less than two months, contact your doctor.
6. Do not use miconazole vaginally if you have abdominal, back, or shoulder pain; fever; or foul-smelling vaginal discharge. Contact a doctor immediately.
7. If you have a vaginal infection, wear clean cotton panties, not panties made of nylon, rayon, or other synthetic fabrics.
8. Do not swallow this medication or allow it to get into your eyes.
9. Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. If you remember a missed dose at the time you are scheduled to apply the next one, omit the missed dose completely and use only the regularly dose.

Side Effects : Although side effects from miconzole are not common, they can occur. Increased burning, itching, irritation of the skin or vagina. Consult your doctor.

Other Precautions :
1. Women who are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding should inform their doctors before using miconazole vaginal cream or suppositories.
2. Tell your doctor if you are using a condom for birth control and are being treated for a vaginal infection. Miconazole vaginal cream and suppositories can interact with the condoms, so you should use another method birth control.

Storage Conditions : Keep miconazole in the container it came in and out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature.