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Miconazole Coupon - Miconazole 2% tube of cream

miconazole

Generic Monistat
Used for Yeast Infection, Athlete's Foot, Ringworm, Jock Itch
Used for Yeast Infection, Athlete's Foot, Ringworm, Jock Itch

Monistat (miconazole) is a medication that's used to treat vaginal yeast infections. It comes as creams, inserts, and suppositories that are placed into the vagina. Common side effects include mild vaginal burning, irritation, and itching. It's best not to have sex while using Monistat (miconazole) and to wait until your infection has gone away. There are several brand names of this medication (e.g., Monistat 1 Combination Pack, Monistat 3, Monistat 7), with the number representing how many days you have to take it. You can find Monistat (miconazole) over the counter, and it doesn't require a prescription from your provider.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Christina Aungst, PharmD
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
Last reviewed on May 9, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Monistat (miconazole)?

What is Monistat (miconazole) used for?

  • Treatment of vaginal yeast infection

  • Relief of vaginal yeast infection symptoms (itching and irritation outside of the vagina)

How Monistat (miconazole) works

Monistat (miconazole) is an antifungal medication. It kills the fungus causing the vaginal yeast infection by damaging its protective outer layer.

Are you looking for information on Oravig (miconazole tablets), miconazole cream (Zeasorb) for fungal skin infections, or tioconazole (Monistat 1) instead?
When does Monistat (miconazole) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsMonistat 1 Combination Pack, Monistat 3, Monistat 7, Vagistat 3
Drug ClassAntifungal
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityOver-the-counter
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$12.43(save 58.04%)
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What are the side effects of Monistat (miconazole)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Vaginal burning
  • Vaginal irritation
  • Vaginal itching

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

Blistering, burning, redness, skin rash, or other sign of skin irritation not present before use of this medicine

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Monistat (miconazole)

thumbs-up

Pros

Works as well as certain prescription options

Has mild side effects

Can use the 7-day version if you're pregnant

Available without a prescription

thumbs-down

Cons

Can cause vaginal burning, itching, or irritation

Can stain clothes and bedsheets

Can't use tampons, douches, or spermicides while using Monistat (miconazole)

Interferes with Coumadin (warfarin) and raise the risk of bleeding or bruising

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Monistat (miconazole)

pharmacist

  • If this is your first vaginal yeast infection, talk to your healthcare provider before using Monistat (miconazole). The symptoms of a yeast infection (e.g., burning, itching, irritation) are similar to those of other vaginal or urinary tract infections. Monistat (miconazole) won't treat these other infections, so your provider can double check that you're getting the appropriate treatment for your symptoms.

    • Use Monistat (miconazole) at bedtime. For the 1-day version, you can use the medication at any time of day. Wear a pad or panty liner. This helps with possible leakage. The medication can also stain your clothes and bedsheets.

      • To insert Monistat (miconazole), lie flat on your back, bend your knees, and place the applicator into your vagina. Throw the applicator away after each dose. Don't reuse the applicators.

        • If there's a tube of miconazole cream provided in the packaging, you can apply a small amount of the cream to the outside of the vagina (vulva) and the area around the opening of the vagina. This cream will help with itching and irritation until Monistat (miconazole) starts to kick in.

          • Don't use tampons, douches, or spermicides while you're using Monistat (miconazole). They can affect how well the medication works. It's okay to use Monistat (miconazole) when you have your menstrual period, but just use pads or other sanitary napkins.

            • Don't have sex while using Monistat (miconazole). Sex can make your symptoms worse.

              • If you have frequent yeast infections (one infection a month or more), speak with your healthcare provider. While Monistat (miconazole) should still work for you, your provider can help figure out what's causing these frequent infections. There might be better treatment options for you.

                • Stop using Monistat (miconazole) and contact your healthcare provider if you don't feel any better in 3 days or if you're still having symptoms for longer than 7 days. You might need a different medication to treat your infection, or you might have a different type of infection other than a yeast infection.

                  • If you experience lower stomach, back, or shoulder pain, fever, chills, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge, let your healthcare provider know right away. These aren't typical symptoms for a yeast infection, and you might need medical attention.

                    faqs

                    Frequently asked questions about Monistat (miconazole)

                    How fast does Monistat (miconazole) work?
                    Most people will start to feel relief within the first 24 hours after the first dose of Monistat (miconazole). Don't worry if it takes a little longer for you though. Symptom relief typically occurs within the first 3 days after starting Monistat (miconazole). And you'll most likely feel completely better within 7 days of treatment. If you don't feel any improvement within 3 days or you're still having symptoms for over a week, please contact your healthcare provider.
                    Does Monistat (miconazole) burn if you don't have a yeast infection?
                    Monistat (miconazole) can cause mild vaginal burning, itching, or irritation when you use it. If you're not sure whether you have a yeast infection or something else, talk with your healthcare provider first before using this medication.
                    Does Monistat (miconazole) cure a urinary tract infection (UTI)?
                    No. Monistat (miconazole) is an antifungal, meaning it treats infections caused by a fungus. Most UTIs are caused by bacteria and require treatment with an antibiotic. Sometimes, the symptoms of a yeast infection and a UTI are similar. So if you're not sure which type of infection you have, give your healthcare provider a call to make sure you get the appropriate treatment.
                    How long after I use Monistat (miconazole) can I have sex?
                    Before having any kind of sex, make sure that you've finished your Monistat (miconazole) treatment course and that your yeast infection and symptoms are completely gone. It typically takes about 7 days after you start using Monistat (miconazole) for your infection to be fully treated. But, keep in mind that the time infections take to go away can vary. Having sex while you have a vaginal yeast infection and while you're using Monistat (miconazole) can worsen your symptoms.
                    Can you use Monistat (miconazole) while pregnant?
                    If you're pregnant, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you can use the particular Monistat (miconazole) product you have. The CDC guidelines recommend using only the 7-day treatment courses of Monistat (miconazole) to help with vaginal yeast infections during pregnancy.
                    Why can't I use tampons while using Monistat (miconazole)?
                    Tampons can absorb some of the Monistat (miconazole) in the vagina. They also might make your symptoms worse when they're inserted into the vagina. While it's okay to use Monistat (miconazole) during your menstrual period, it's best to stick to pads and panty liners until your yeast infection is better.
                    Is fluconazole (Diflucan) better than Monistat (miconazole)?
                    Both fluconazole (Diflucan) and Monistat (miconazole) work equally well to treat vaginal yeast infections. The choice for most people comes down to personal preference and convenience. While fluconazole (Diflucan) is a pill that's taken only once, it does require a prescription and tends to cause side effects like nausea and stomach pain. Monistat (miconazole) is available over the counter and can cause or worsen vaginal burning, itching, and irritation. Learn more about the similarities and differences between fluconazole (Diflucan) and Monistat (miconazole). Speak with your provider about which medication is right for you.
                    Which Monistat product is best?
                    Each Monistat (miconazole) product works equally well and takes 7 days to fully treat your yeast infection. They differ in the number of days you need to use the medication and the strength of the medication. Monistat 1 Combination Pack is a 1-day course that provides the highest dose of miconazole. Monistat 3 is a 3-day course that provides a moderate dose of miconazole. And Monistat 7 is a 7-day course with the lowest dose of miconazole. No matter which version you choose, if your symptoms don't start to improve after 3 days or if you still have symptoms after 7 days, talk with your healthcare provider.
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                    What are the risks and warnings for Monistat (miconazole)?

                    Monistat (miconazole) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                    risk-warning

                    Damage to condoms and diaphragms

                    Monistat (miconazole) can cause condoms and diaphragms to weaken and break. This puts you at risk for an unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It's important to avoid having sex until your infection is cleared up. Sex can make your symptoms worse, and it's possible to give your infection to your partner.

                    risk-warning

                    Treatment failure

                    If your vaginal yeast infection symptoms (itching, irritation, or thick discharge) haven't gotten any better after 3 days of using Monistat (miconazole), let your healthcare provider know. Also speak with your provider if your infection isn't completely cleared up after 7 days. Monistat (miconazole) shouldn't be used for more than 7 days in a row unless instructed by a provider. In both of these situations, you might need a different medication to treat your infection.

                    dosage

                    Monistat (miconazole) dosage forms

                    The average cost for 30 tubes of 2% of Monistat (miconazole) is $6.07 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 51.17% off the average retail price of $12.43.
                    bottle of powder
                    Bottle of powder
                    DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                    71g of 2%1 bottle$5.22$5.22
                    85g of 2%1 bottle$5.75$5.75
                    suppository
                    Suppository
                    DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                    200mg3 suppositories$38.96$12.99
                    tube of cream
                    Tube of cream
                    DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                    2%30 tubes$6.07$0.20

                    Typical dosing for Monistat (miconazole)

                    Monistat (miconazole) is available as vaginal creams, inserts, and suppositories. Read the package label carefully to see how many days you need to use the medication for (either 1, 3, or 7 days).

                    • Vaginal cream only: Insert 1 applicatorful of medication into the vagina at bedtime.

                      • For the 7-day treatment cream, use a new applicator each night for 7 nights in a row. You can also apply extra cream to the outside of the vagina 2 times a day for up to 7 days as needed for itching and irritation.

                      • For the 3-day treatment cream, use a new applicator each night for 3 nights in a row.

                    • Vaginal suppository only: For the 7-day treatment course, insert 1 suppository into the vagina at bedtime for 7 nights in a row.

                    • Combination pack (vaginal suppository or insert and cream): Place 1 vaginal suppository or insert into the vagina at bedtime. These combination packs come with a small tube of miconazole 2% cream that you can apply to the outside of the vagina 2 times a day for up to 7 days as needed for itching and irritation.

                      • For the 3-day pack, place a suppository or insert into the vagina for 3 nights in a row.

                      • For the 1-day pack, use the vaginal insert for one time only at any time of day.

                    interactions

                    Interactions between Monistat (miconazole) and other drugs

                    Monistat (miconazole) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Monistat (miconazole). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                    How much does Monistat (miconazole) cost?

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                    contraindications-icon

                    Monistat (miconazole) contraindications

                    Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Monistat (miconazole) will not be safe for you to take.

                    • First vaginal yeast infection and you haven't seen a provider about it yet

                    alternatives

                    What are alternatives to Monistat (miconazole)?

                    There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Monistat (miconazole). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                    Monistat (miconazole)
                    Used for:

                    • Treatment of vaginal yeast infection

                    • Relief of vaginal yeast infection symptoms (itching and irritation outside of the vagina)

                    $5.22 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    Fluconazole (Diflucan)
                    Used for:
                    $1.74 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    latest news

                    What is the latest news about Monistat (miconazole)?

                    Say goodbye to discomfort with GoodRx’s guide on treating vaginal yeast infections. Get expert tips for quick and effective relief.

                    How to Get Rid of a Vaginal Yeast Infection

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                    Yeast Infection vs. UTI: How to Tell the Difference

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

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                    Tinea versicolor is a treatable condition. But it often recurs, so ongoing treatment may be recommended. There are many topical treatments for tinea versicolor that work well. There are also prescription medications that reduce symptoms. Learn more about tinea versicolor treatment, here.

                    Tinea Versicolor Treatment: Everything You Need to Know

                    Tinea versicolor is a treatable condition. But it often recurs, so ongoing treatment may be recommended. There are many topical treatments for tinea versicolor that work well. There are also prescription medications that reduce symptoms. Learn more about tinea versicolor treatment, here.
                    You should notice symptoms of your yeast infection improve within one day of taking Monistat, though it can take a full week to cure an infection.

                    What Pharmacists Say About How Long Monistat Takes To Work (Plus 5 More Tips)

                    You should notice symptoms of your yeast infection improve within one day of taking Monistat, though it can take a full week to cure an infection.
                    Antibiotics, antiepileptics, antiretrovirals, and St. John’s wort are the most likely medications to interact with hormonal birth control. If you are about to start taking one of these medications, you may need to talk to your provider about alternative contraceptives. Learn more, with GoodRx.

                    How Do Antibiotics and Other Medications Interfere With Birth Control?

                    Antibiotics, antiepileptics, antiretrovirals, and St. John’s wort are the most likely medications to interact with hormonal birth control. If you are about to start taking one of these medications, you may need to talk to your provider about alternative contraceptives. Learn more, with GoodRx.
                    images

                    Monistat (miconazole) images

                    This medicine is Colorless Tube Of Cream.
                    white - Miconazole Nitrate 2% Antifungal Topical Cream
                    This medicine is White Tube Of Cream.white - Miconazole Nitrate 2% Antifungal Topical Cream
                    This medicine is Colorless Tube Of Cream.
                    white - Miconazole Nitrate 2% Antifungal Topical Cream
                    This medicine is White Tube Of Cream.white - Miconazole Nitrate 2% Antifungal Topical Cream
                    white - Miconazole Nitrate 2% Antifungal Topical Cream
                    This medicine is White Tube Of Cream.white - Miconazole Nitrate 2% Antifungal Topical Cream
                    This medicine is Colorless Tube Of Cream.

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                    References

                    Best studies we found

                    H2-Pharma, LLC. (2023). MICONAZOLE 7 - miconazole nitrate suppository [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    HEB. (2022). MICONAZOLE 1 - miconazole nitrate [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    Insight Pharmaceuticals LLC. (2019). MONISTAT 3 COMBINATION PACK 3 OVULE INSERTS - miconazole nitrate kit [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    View All References (6)

                    Insight Pharmaceuticals LLC. (2023). MONISTAT 1 COMBINATION PACK - miconazole nitrate kit [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    Insight Pharmaceuticals LLC. (2023). MONISTAT 3 3 DAY - miconazole nitrate cream [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    Insight Pharmaceuticals LLC. (2023). MONISTAT 7 7-DAY DISPOSABLE APPLICATORS - miconazole nitrate cream [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    McKeny, P. T., et al. (2023). Antifungal antibiotics. StatPearls.

                    Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines, 2021. (2021). Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

                    Sobel, J. D. (2014). Factors involved in patient choice of oral or vaginal treatment for vulvovaginal candidiasis. Patient Preference and Adherence.

                    GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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