Terconazole Description

Generic Name : TERCONAZOLE

Pronunciation : (ter kone' a zole)

Trade Name(s) : Gyno-Terazol VAG

Why it is prescribed: Terconazole, an antifungal agent, is used to treat fungal infections of the vagina.

When it is to be taken: Terconazole is used once a day at bedtime for either three or seven days. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor to explain any part that you do not understand.

How it should be taken: Terconazole comes in cream and suppositories to be inserted into the vagina with a special applicator. Read the instructions provided with the medication and follow these steps:
(1) Remove the cap from the tube of cream and puncture the seal over the opening with the pointed end of the cap. Screw the applicator onto the tube, fill it with cream, and then unscrew it from the tube. OR Unwrap a suppository and place the flat end in the open section of the applicator as shown in the accompanying instructions.
(2) Lie on your back with your knees drawn upward and spread apart.
(3) Grasp the ribbed portion of the applicator and gently insert it into your vagina. Then push the plunger to release the medication.
(4) Withdraw the applicator.
(5) Pull the applicator apart, clean it thoroughly with soap and warm water, and dry it completely after each use.
(6) You may use your finger instead of the applicator to insert a suppository', place the suppository on the tip of your finger and insert it as far as it will go.
(7) While using this medication, you may wish to wear a sanitary napkin to protect your clothing against stains. Do not use a tampon because it will absorb the drug. Do not douche unless your doctor tells you to do so. Continue using terconazole even if you get your menstrual period.

Special Instruction :
1. Use terconazole for as long as directed, even after your symptoms improve. If you stop the medication early, your infection might return.
2. If you have used terconazole for as long as directed and still have symptoms, contact your doctor. Wear clean cotton panties, not panties made of nylon, rayon, or other synthetic fabrics. Keep all appointments with your doctor.
3. If you forget to apply a dose, insert the missed dose as soon as you remember it but do not use a double dose to make up for a missed dose. Terconazole must be used regularly to be effective.

Side Effects :
1. Increased burning, itching, or irritation of the vagina. If these effects are severe, contact your doctor.
2. Headache, body pain, genital pain. If these effects persist, contact your doctor.

Other Precautions :
1. Tell your doctor if you are using a diaphragm for birth control. Terconazole suppositories can interact with the latex in diaphragms, so you should use terconazole cream or another method of birth control.
2. If you are pregnant or think that you may be pregnant or breast-feeding, inform your doctor before using terconazole.
3. Although terconazole has been used safely during the last six months of pregnancy, it is not known whether the use of this drug during the first three months or while breast-feeding is safe.

Storage Conditions : Store terconazole at room temperature and out of the reach of children.