Yeast Infection Pills: Is Diflucan Good for Treating Vaginal Yeast Infections?

A yeast infection is a fungal infection that can cause vaginal itching and burning, as well as a thick, white, and clumpy discharge. While Candida albicans is a fungus normally found in the vagina, an overgrowth of it can lead to vaginal yeast infections. Yeast infection pills, such as Diflucan (fluconazole), are effective in treating vaginal yeast infections and restoring the balance in the vagina between natural bacteria and yeast.

For some, prescription yeast infection pills are a popular treatment choice for yeast infections instead of many over-the-counter (OTC) options. Let’s take a closer look at how yeast infection pills like Diflucan work, potential side effects, and if an oral treatment is a good option for your yeast infection.

Benefits of yeast infection pills

There are several options available to help treat yeast infections — including pills and OTC vaginal creams. However, many people seem to prefer yeast infection pills. This is because they tend to be less messy and easier to use than creams.

Here are some other upsides of yeast infection pills:

• They’re extremely effective in eliminating fungal infections.

• A single-dose pill is usually all that’s necessary to clear an infection.

• The generic fluconazole as a single dose is typically less expensive than OTC yeast infection medications.

You might consider yeast infection pills if you have a moderate-to-severe infection or you’ve previously tried OTC creams and they didn’t work. But keep in mind that yeast infection pills like fluconazole aren’t safe in pregnancy or if you have certain liver or heart rhythm conditions. It also interacts with a lot of medications, so make sure to discuss any risks with a healthcare professional.

What is Diflucan?

Diflucan is a common yeast infection pill that treats fungal infections in men and women. It’s not an antibiotic. Rather, it’s an antifungal that kills yeasts like those responsible for vaginal yeast infections. Diflucan is available by prescription only. That means you can’t buy it OTC.

In addition to treating Candida albicans — the fungus that causes most vaginal yeast infections — Diflucan can be used for fungal infections of the mouth, lungs, and blood. It’s also prescribed to prevent fungal infections in individuals who have lower immunity, including people living with cancer or HIV.

Diflucan works by damaging the cell wall of the fungus that causes the infection. This makes it more difficult for fungal yeast like Candida albicans to multiply further.

Diflucan dosage for vaginal yeast infection

The most common Diflucan dosage for a vaginal yeast infection is a single 150 mg oral pill. One dose of Diflucan is usually all it takes to cure a yeast infection. This is because the medication stays in vaginal secretions for at least 72 hours.

Diflucan vs. other yeast infection pills

Due to its widespread availability and low cost, Diflucan is still the preferred yeast infection pill.

If Diflucan isn’t working well for you, or if you tend to get yeast infections frequently, a healthcare professional may consider other yeast infection pills.

Vivjoa (oteseconazole) is a pill that’s FDA approved for people who have recurrent vaginal yeast infections (more than 4 per year). It’s typically taken daily for 2 weeks, then once a week for at least 10 weeks. It can stay in the body for up to 2 years after the last dose. 

Vivjoa is a brand-name-only medication that’s available through specialty pharmacies and shouldn’t be used if you’re considering pregnancy in the next few years.

Brexafemme (ibrexafungerp) is a yeast infection pill that’s currently unavailable in the U.S. after a voluntary recall. It’s unclear when it’ll return to the market. The dosage includes 4 pills taken over 24 hours. Brexafemme doesn’t have a lower-cost generic option.

Diflucan side effects

As with all medications, Diflucan can also cause potential side effects. Luckily, the side effects of Diflucan are usually minor. The most common ones are:

• Headache

• Nausea

• Abdominal discomfort

• Diarrhea

It’s rare to have an allergic reaction to Diflucan. But it’s important to get medical attention right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Shortness of breath

• Coughing

• Wheezing

• Fever

• Rash

• Swelling

• Hives

• Blisters of the skin

Yeast infection pills vs. OTC creams: Which is better?

Diflucan and the OTC creams both work more than 90% of the time. So, ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on which yeast infection medication you’re more comfortable using.

Other considerations that might impact your decision include:

• Whether the medication requires a prescription

• How quickly you need relief

• Cost

Let’s take a look at how yeast infection pills compare to topical creams.

Buying yeast infection pills online

It’s possible to get yeast infections pills online. Many telehealth services (like GoodRx Care) can prescribe treatment for a yeast infection without a trip to a clinic. A virtual appointment may be an option for you if it’s hard for you to find a clinic or make it to an in-person appointment.

How to save on Diflucan

Diflucan is available as a lower-cost generic (fluconazole), and most insurance plans cover it.

With a free GoodRx coupon, a fluconazole 150 mg tablet can cost as low as $9.51 at certain pharmacies. 

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Written by:

Maria Robinson, MD, MBA

Maria Robinson, MD, MBA, is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist who has practiced dermatology and dermatopathology for over 10 years across private practice, academic, and telehealth settings. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society of Dermatopathology.

Edited by:

Karla Robinson, MD

Karla Robinson, MD, is a medical editor for GoodRx. She is a licensed, board-certified family physician with almost 20 years of experience in health through varied clinical, administrative, and educational roles.

Reviewed by:

Christina Aungst, PharmD

Christina Aungst, PharmD, is a pharmacy editor for GoodRx. She began writing for GoodRx Health in 2019, transitioning from freelance writer to editor in 2021.

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