Genital candidiasis (yeast infection) may be treated with either prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medications. If a yeast infection is diagnosed by a physician, prescription medication is likely to be given in the form of a cream, suppository or oral pill. Since most people rely on self-treatment, however, OTC medications are more commonly used to treat the condition. Because men are more likely to experience mild symptoms, if any, OTC medications are usually sufficient to clear up a yeast infection in men.

The OTC medications for yeast infections are antifungal drugs that work to break down the wall of the Candida organism until it disappears. The drugs also inhibit the ability of the fungus to multiply and form new membranes. OTC medications for yeast infections contain one of four active ingredients:

• Butoconazole nitrate
• Clotrimazole
• Miconazole
• Tioconazole

The medications for treatment are available in two forms: topical and oral. Topical medications are available by prescription and OTC. They include vaginal creams and ointments that are inserted by the woman into the vagina using a special applicator, or creams that can be applied to the penis. Vaginal suppositories that dispense medicine as they dissolve can also be placed directly into the vagina for treatment. Treatment with these medications can range from several days to two weeks.

Oral medications are only available by prescription and come in the form of tablets or capsules. The dosage and frequency depends on the severity of the yeast infection. People with mild infections may only require a single dose or daily doses for a short duration.

The use of oral or topical forms of medication depends on a number of factors, including the severity of the yeast infection and whether or not the infection is recurrent. A patient’s personal medical history also affects the type of medication that should be used. For example, certain medications should not be used by pregnant women or individuals with a comprised immune system or diabetes. People with these conditions must consult with their physician before beginning treatment for yeast infections.

Some drug regimens may include a combination of treatments, such as an oral agent followed by topical application of a cream. Severe or recurrent infections may require changing the type of medicine or remaining on a medicine for maintenance treatments.

Drug or food interactions may occur with several types of oral medications. Antacids or other drugs that decrease stomach acidity may decrease the effectiveness of oral antifungal drugs. In addition, creams and suppositories may contain oil that can weaken latex condoms. Patients should check with their physician or pharmacist if they are taking other medications before starting yeast infection treatment.

The most common side effects experienced with topical medications include burning or itching of the vagina or penis. Less common side effects include contact dermatitis, inflammation and pain during urination or sexual intercourse. Common side effects with oral medications include fever, dizziness, mild itching and nausea.

Yeast infections generally respond to treatment within a few days. However, individuals are instructed to complete the entire course of treatment, even if symptoms subside before treatment has concluded. It is important to note that although these treatments have an 80 percent to 90 percent success rate, frequent or prolonged use can reduce their effectiveness, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

If an infection clears up for a period of time but the same symptoms reappear, the patient may be advised by a physician to use a different type of treatment. A new type of medication may be able to completely cure the infection. People should contact their physician if:

• All of the symptoms do not go away completely
  
  
• The symptoms return immediately or shortly after completion of treatment
  
  
• They have any serious medical problems such as diabetes or immune disorder
  
  
• They are pregnant or breastfeeding