Generic name: terconazole vaginal [ ter-kon-a-zole-vaj-in-al ]
Drug class: Vaginal anti-infectives
Availability: Prescription only
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data available
What is Terconazole vaginal?
Terconazole is an antifungal medication that fights infections caused by fungus.
Terconazole vaginal (for use in the vagina) is used to treat vaginal Candida (yeast) infections.
Terconazole vaginal may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
How should I take Terconazole vaginal
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Do not take terconazole vaginal by mouth. It is for use only in your vagina.
This medication comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use. Follow these directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Terconazole vaginal is available as a cream or vaginal suppository. Each form comes with an applicator for measuring and inserting the vaginal medicine. The cream is also available in prefilled applicators that each contain one daily dose of terconazole. You may insert the vaginal suppository using your finger if desired.
Wash your hands before and after inserting the cream or suppository.
Terconazole vaginal is usually applied once daily at bedtime for 3 to 7 days in a row. Follow your doctor's instructions.
Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may also increase your risk of further infection that is resistant to antifungal medicine.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 3 days, or if you still have symptoms for longer than 7 days. Frequent vaginal yeast infections that do not clear up with treatment may be a sign of a more serious condition.
Terconazole vaginal suppositories contain ingredients that can damage a diaphragm. You should not use this form of birth control during treatment with terconazole vaginal suppositories.
The single-use cream applicator is for one use only. Throw the applicator away after one use, even if there is still some medicine left in it after inserting your dose.
Your sexual partner should contact a doctor if they develop redness, itching, or other discomfort in the genital area. These may be signs that you have passed a yeast infection to your partner.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Dosing information
Usual Adult Dose for Vaginal Candidiasis:
Vaginal cream 0.4%: 1 applicatorful intravaginally once a day at bedtime for 7 consecutive days
Vaginal cream 0.8%: 1 applicatorful intravaginally once a day at bedtime for 3 consecutive days
Vaginal suppository: 1 suppository intravaginally once a day at bedtime for 3 consecutive days
Comments:
-Only effective for vulvovaginitis due to Candida; diagnosis should be confirmed by KOH smears and/or cultures.
Use: For the local treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis (moniliasis)
Before Taking
You should not use terconazole vaginal if you are allergic to it.
Do not use terconazole vaginal if you have never had a vaginal yeast infection that has been confirmed by a doctor.
To make sure terconazole vaginal is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
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fever, chills, vomiting;
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pelvic pain, vaginal discharge with a bad odor;
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if you are having vaginal itching or discomfort for the first time; or
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if you think you may have been exposed to HIV (human immunodeficiency virus).
It is not known whether terconazole vaginal will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether terconazole vaginal passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.
Do not give this medication to anyone under 18 years old without medical advice.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of terconazole vaginal is unlikely to occur.
What should I avoid while using Terconazole vaginal?
Avoid having sexual intercourse during treatment, unless your doctor says that you may.
Do not use a tampon, vaginal douche, or other vaginal products while you are using terconazole vaginal.
Avoid wearing tight-fitting, synthetic clothing such as nylon underwear or panty hose that does not allow air circulation. Wear loose-fitting clothing made of cotton and other natural fibers until your infection is healed.
Terconazole vaginal side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Terconazole vaginal may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:
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new or worsening symptoms;
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fever, chills, flu symptoms;
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severe vaginal irritation; or
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severe skin reaction--fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain, followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.
Common side effects of terconazole vaginal may include:
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headache;
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body pain;
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vaginal pain, burning, or itching;
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stomach pain; or
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increased menstrual cramps.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See more: Terconazole vaginal Side Effects