miconazole, Monistat, M-Zole, Micatin

What is miconazole, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?

Miconazole is an anti-fungal medication related to fluconazole (Diflucan), ketoconazole (Nizoral), itraconazole (Sporanox), and clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex). It is used either on the skin or in the vaginal for fungal infections. Miconazole was approved by the FDA in 1974.

What brand names are available for miconazole?

Monistat, M-Zole, Micatin

Is miconazole available as a generic drug?

Yes

Do I need a prescription for miconazole?

yes, but not for some formulations

What are the side effects of miconazole?

Irritation, burning, rash and itching have been reported by patients using topical or vaginal miconazole.

What is the dosage for miconazole?

Miconazole vaginal cream and suppositories are for use only in the vagina. These products are not to be taken by mouth. The vaginal suppositories are inserted, one per dose, in an applicator. Alternatively, the tube containing the vaginal cream is screwed onto the end of a special applicator tube, and the tube is then squeezed to fill the applicator. The patient then lies on her back with bent knees, inserts the applicator containing either the suppository or cream so that the tip of the applicator is high in the vagina, and then pushes the plunger in to deposit the suppository or cream into the vagina. The applicator should be washed with warm soap and water after each use.

Miconazole usually is used once daily at bedtime. The 200 mg suppositories (Monistat 3) are inserted once nightly for 3 nights. The 100 mg suppositories (Monistat-7) and intravaginal cream are inserted once nightly for 7 nights. The 1200 mg formulation (Monistat 1) is applied once for one night.

For fungal skin infections, the topical cream is applied as a thin layer to cover the affected skin and surrounding area, usually once or twice daily for 2-4 weeks. The hands should be washed before and after application.

Which drugs or supplements interact with miconazole?

There are no known drug interactions with vaginal or topical miconazole.

Is miconazole safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

There is very limited information on the use of miconazole during pregnancy. The physician must weigh the potential benefits against possible but unknown risks to the fetus.

It is not known if miconazole is secreted in breast milk in amounts that can affect the infant.

What else should I know about miconazole?

What preparations of miconazole are available?

Preparations are as follows:

• Vaginal suppositories: 100 and 200 mg;
• Vaginal cream: 2 and 4%;
• Topical cream, aerosol powder, spray or tincture: 2%.
• Combination Packs: 100, 200, or 1200 mg suppository plus 2% vaginal cream.

How should I keep miconazole stored?

All formulations should be stored at room temperature, 15 C to 30 C (59 F TO 86 F).