10 best remedies for thrush

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

Mushrooms occupy a separate kingdom among living things, different from plants and animals. Many of them are parasites that use the human body either as a habitat or as a food source. And, perhaps, the first of the fungi that settle in the body of a newborn are Candida, or representatives of conditionally pathogenic fungi of the genus Candida, and most often this is the Candida Flbicans species. The term opportunistic means that in a healthy person with good immunity, this fungus is part of the normal microflora of the intestines, oral cavity, vagina, and does not cause any inconvenience.

Joining the normal microflora does not imply intensive reproduction of the fungus. It can simply be detected using various analyzes, and even then in small quantities. In the same case, If the fungi begin to multiply intensively, then we are talking about mycosis, or fungal infection. The term 'thrush' reflects the visual picture of the development of the fungus on the mucous membranes. Against the background of bright red hyperemia, whitish, bluish spots appear, resembling spilled milk or kefir.

Most often in adults, thrush occurs as a marker of decreased immunity associated with other infections, and in women of childbearing age, thrush most often develops against the background of bacterial vaginosis, or gardnerellosis, when the protective properties of the vaginal mucosa are lost, and the acidic environment changes to alkaline .

In modern dermatovenerology and gynecology, there are a large number of different agents for the treatment of thrush, or vaginal candidiasis. Consider the most popular and effective drugs for eliminating candidal infection. There are both a remedy for topical use, in the form of suppositories, ointments and gels, and preparations in tablets. The most commonly used and sold are candles.

Rating of the best remedies for thrush

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
The best candles for thrush	1	Klion-D (metronidazole + miconazole)	348 r
	2	Livarol (ketaconazole)	391 RUB
	3	Betadine (povidone iodine)	394 RUB
	4	Zalain (Sertaconazole)	RUB 479
	5	Macmiror Complex (nystatin + nifuratel)	RUB 699
The best ointments and creams for thrush	1	Pimafucin (Natamycin)	344 r
	2	Candide (clotrimazole)	249 r
	3	Gynofort cream (butoconazole)	645 RUB
The best pills for thrush	1	Diflucan (fluconazole)	427 r
	2	Orungal, Irunin, (itraconazole)	RUB 3,115

The best candles for thrush

Drugs administered intravaginally in the form of suppositories have their own advantages. This is, first of all, the possibility of treating deep-seated foci of fungal infection by deep injection. In the event that the upper part of the vagina, the cervix, the mouth of the fallopian tubes and even the tubes themselves are affected, which is rare, then the use of suppositories is more effective than the application of ointments and gels.

Also, candles are most often produced not with one medicinal preparation, but with several components, which affects the fungus more effectively than an ointment. Therefore, in the event that a gynecologist prescribed suppositories to a patient with vaginal candidiasis, this can be considered the most effective way to eliminate a fungal infection. Sometimes the fat-soluble suppository base is replaced with another, in which case a topical form is obtained, which are called vaginal tablets.

The technology for the production of suppositories is such that at normal room temperature they are in a solid state, but, being inserted into the vagina, or into the rectum, when the temperature reaches 36 ° C, the material of the candle begins to melt – basically, it is a mixture of paraffin, with glycerin and gelatin.

What are the benefits of using suppositories to treat thrush?

1. Speed. After the candles have melted, the active action of the released components begins, within one or two minutes after administration;
2. action in the local circulatory system of the small pelvis. Medicinal substances can affect not only mucous membranes. Due to the well-developed capillary network inside the vagina, some of the active substances enter the bloodstream, but, unlike drugs administered orally, they do not pass through the liver, and sometimes act in lower concentrations and with greater effect;
3. the vast majority of drugs administered in the form of suppositories do not enter the systemic circulation, and therefore, in patients with impaired renal excretory function, the method of treating thrush with suppositories is the method of choice;
4. it is very important that many patients with gastrointestinal tract pathology, gastric ulcer, gastroduodenitis, can poorly tolerate oral medications. Suppositories for thrush are devoid of these disadvantages, and can be used by these persons without restrictions.

For the treatment of thrush, various groups of suppositories for vaginal administration are used. Consider the most effective and affordable drugs, evaluate their advantages and disadvantages.

Klion-D (metronidazole + miconazole)

Rating: 4.9

The drug for thrush Klion-D is a unique complex that contains not only an antifungal drug, but also a remedy for the treatment of anaerobic infection. These are miconazole and metronidazole, which are contained in each 100 mg deep-vaginal tablet. The remedy helps to treat not only thrush, but also trichomoniasis, various pathogenic protozoa, vaginal gardnerella and various opportunistic anaerobes, such as bacteroids, fusobacteria and other microbes.

Opportunistic anaerobic flora often joins in the case of alkalization of the vaginal environment, and facilitates more serious infections to enter and the process of chronicity. Shown Klion-D in the case of fungal and mixed vaginitis, in which not only the fungal flora multiplies, but also other microorganisms, for example, Trichomonas. Klion-D is prescribed one tablet at a time, which is pre-moistened with water and inserted deep into the vagina once a day at night. The course of treatment is 10 days.

Vaginal tablets Klion-d of the Hungarian company 'Gedeon Richter' are produced, one pack of 10 pieces will cost 280 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantage of this drug is a rather affordable price, the ability to treat not just thrush, but associated and complex vaginitis, with the presence of anaerobic microflora. This drug is quite effective and has been used for a long time. Side effects include local allergic reactions, such as burning and pain, especially at the first administration, the inability to combine Klion-D with alcohol intake, and in case of an overdose, the development of symptoms such as leukopenia, or a decrease in the number of leukocytes in the general blood test.

But in the event that this drug is used according to indications, and according to the instructions, then in most cases the symptoms of thrush disappear after a few days.

Livarol (ketaconazole)

Rating: 4.8

Vaginal suppositories Livarol for thrush contain an effective fungicide ketoconazole. Each candle with a dosage of 400 mg, in a package of 5 or 10 candles. Large packaging is available at a price of 550 rubles, the drug is produced by the domestic pharmaceutical company Nizhpharm.

Livarol, like other antifungal suppositories, is indicated for endometritis as a means of covering so that the concomitant fungal flora does not become active, or if there is already an underlying candidal vaginitis, or thrush. Livarol is used one suppository per day, on average, for 5 days, and in chronic forms of candidiasis – for 10 days. Manufacturers warn against self-termination of treatment when the disturbing symptoms disappear, as this can lead to chronicity of the fungal infection.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantage of ketoconazole is its high efficiency against opportunistic pathogenic fungi, and the disadvantages include the development of side effects associated with local irritation of the mucous membrane, itching and manifestation of allergies.

Interaction with other drugs in Livarol is unknown, so it can be used together with tablets and other topical drugs without restrictions, due to the low resorptive capacity of ketoconazole.

Betadine (povidone iodine)

Rating: 4.7

Vaginal suppositories for thrush with betadine are sold in packs of 7 and 14 suppositories, each containing 200 mg of povidone iodine. A pack of 7 candles, which is produced by the Hungarian company Egis, can be bought for 300 rubles, and a double pack of 14 candles – for 485 rubles.

Everyone knows the bactericidal effect of iodine, but for intravaginal administration, of course, an alcohol solution is not applicable, therefore povidone-iodine is used. One candle corresponds to approximately 20 mg of active iodine. Povidone iodine destroys E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, is active against protozoa, viruses and fungi. It is characteristic that iodine is not absorbed from the mucous membrane, that is, there is no resorptive effect.

Suppositories with Betadine are indicated in the complex therapy of endometritis, vaginitis and bacterial vaginosis, with trichomoniasis, candidal colpitis, and also as a prophylaxis before surgery.

The drug is administered once a day, deeply intravaginally, preferably before bedtime. In acute endometritis, administration is recommended twice a day for 7 days.

Advantages and disadvantages

Betadine helps not only with thrush, as it is also produced in the form of a solution, it is able to prevent contamination of a clean wound with pathogenic flora, prevents the appearance of wound infection in surgical and burn patients, with open injuries. Also, Betadine in solution can also be used not only intravaginally, but also for disinfecting the skin around various probes, catheters and drains, for treating pressure sores and trophic ulcers. But Betadine is contraindicated in pregnancy and chronic renal failure, with excessive sensitivity to iodine, and with thyroid pathology. Usually, the drug is well tolerated, but sometimes there is an individual intolerance in the form of itching and allergies.

Zalain (Sertaconazole)

Rating: 4.6

Sertaconazole is a highly effective fungicide derived from both imidazole and benzothiophene. It has high activity against vaginal candidiasis, as well as staphylococci and streptococci. This drug increases the permeability of the cell membranes of fungal structures, which destroys the cells of the parasite. Each intravaginal suppository contains 300 mg of sertaconazole nitrate. It is necessary to use the drug after using the external genital organs once a day, before going to bed, deeply intravaginally. It is most convenient to use candles while lying on your back.

Advantages and disadvantages

It is necessary to use the remedy for thrush Zalain once, but if necessary, you can repeat the introduction of the candle in a week. The undoubted advantages of Zalain include a single administration of the drug, the rare development of side effects, and the absence of overdose symptoms. However, during treatment, it is necessary to refuse sexual intercourse within a few days after the administration of the suppository, but not due to the harmful effect of the drug on the partner, but in connection with the possibility of the spread of candidal infection. Also, during menstruation, you can freely treat with this drug.

Macmiror Complex (nystatin + nifuratel)

Rating: 4.5

These intravaginal suppositories for thrush are a complex antifungal, antimicrobial, and protozoan agent. Quite often, a situation arises in which thrush is a concomitant infection, and most importantly, diseases such as trichomoniasis, chlamydia, and other infections have a destructive effect. Therefore, McMiror is indicated primarily for the treatment of just such conditions. It contains nifuratel, a derivative of nitrofuran, as well as the antifungal antibiotic nystatin. It is necessary to apply Macmiror daily before bedtime, inserting 1 suppository deep into the vagina for 7 days. Macmiror Complex is also produced in the form of a vaginal cream, which is used, if necessary, to treat children. Macmiror complex is produced by the Italian pharmaceutical company Doppel Pharmaceuticals, and the cost of packing 8 vaginal suppositories, 500 mg each, starts from 630 rubles. in summer 2018 prices.

Advantages and disadvantages

The positive effect is effectiveness in trichomoniasis and chlamydia, higher compliance, that is, the possibility of using one agent instead of several, application once a day, as well as the presence of a creamy form. The disadvantages of McMirora include rare allergic reactions, which are most often represented by a skin rash, individual drug intolerance, as well as low efficiency in relation to anaerobic microflora. Thus, it is necessary to apply this drug topically only when infected with chlamydial infection, candidiasis and Trichomonas.

The best ointments and creams for thrush

In addition to intravaginal suppositories, tablets and suppositories, there is an extensive range of drugs for the treatment of vaginal candidiasis in the form of ointments and creams. They have their own advantages, different from candles. For example, ointment and cream, unlike suppositories, act very quickly when applied to the surface of the mucous membranes, since the absorption rate of ointments and creams is much higher than that of suppositories.

It is when using ointments and creams that the unpleasant symptoms of a fungal infection, such as rash, redness, swelling, and itching, decrease faster. Also, ointments and creams can be used in men, which cannot be said about vaginal suppositories. Commercially available creams and ointments occupy a more affordable price niche than intravaginal suppositories, and especially special intravaginal tablets. In addition, ointment and cream are much easier to use than tablets and suppositories. A woman, and even more so a man, does not need to take a special position, no need to use applicators for guidance, but you just need to distribute the ointment or cream on the surface of the vaginal vestibule and in its anterior third, and men should apply it to the head of the penis and to the inner leaf of the extreme flesh.

Consider the most popular representatives for the treatment of vaginal candidiasis in the form of creams and ointments sold in Russian pharmacies.

Pimafucin (Natamycin)

Rating: 4.9

The active ingredient of Pimafucin is the active antifungal antibiotic natamycin. This agent is embedded in the cell membranes of fungal structures, while they begin to break down and lose their strength. The point of application of natamycin is sterol groups.

Pimafucin is able to treat not only candidiasis. In addition to thrush, other representatives of yeast fungi are also sensitive to it, and pathogens of dermatophytosis are less sensitive to it. Each gram of cream contains 20 mg of the active ingredient in the form of natamycin.

In addition to thrush, among the indications for the use of this cream are various candidal changes in the appendages of the skin (hair, nails), the agent is used in the complex therapy of otitis externa, which was complicated by candidiasis, as well as in various forms of dermatomycosis.

Typically, the cream is applied in a strip 2 to 3 cm long, once a day, and rubbed in slowly. With an uncomplicated course of vaginal candidiasis, the duration of the course does not exceed 7 or 10 days. In addition to the cream, Pimafucin can be produced in the form of enteric tablets, as well as in the form of vaginal suppositories. Pimafucin is produced by the Italian pharmaceutical company Temmler, and one package of cream weighing 30 g and a concentration of 2% natamycin can be purchased at a pharmacy for 271 rubles.

Advantages and disadvantages

Natamycin is a highly effective fungicide, and contraindications to its use are extremely limited, only with increased sensitivity to the components of the drug. Of the side effects, mild irritation is often noted, or a slight burning sensation that goes away on its own, and does not require discontinuation of the drug. In the event that Pimafucin is used together with pills for thrush, and the treatment is under the supervision of a gynecologist, then in 89% of cases there is either recovery or persistent clinical remission with cleansing of the mucous membranes.

Candide (clotrimazole)

Rating: 4.8

Candide vaginal cream containing 1% clotrimazole is produced by the famous Indian pharmaceutical company 'Glennmark Pharmaceuticals'. A tube of cream weighing 20 g can have a cost of 203 rubles, the price range is from 203 to 290 rubles in August 2018 prices.

Each gram of cream contains 10 mg of clotrimazole, a known fungicide. This cream interrupts the synthesis of the cell wall of the fungi, which leads to their destruction. In addition to thrush, pathogens of various molds, multi-colored lichens and erythrasma are very sensitive to the action of clotrimazole. In addition to vaginal candidiasis, the ointment is used to treat other fungal diseases, while the cream has a slight antiprotozoal and antibacterial effect. It is necessary to apply the ointment to the mucous membranes of the genital organs after using the toilet. Apply it in a thin layer, rubbing in carefully and slowly. In the case of candidal vaginitis in women, Candide must be applied to the vaginal mucosa at least twice a day, morning and evening. In men, the drug is thoroughly rubbed into the glans penis and the inner layer of the foreskin after hygiene procedures, also 2 to 3 times a day. The course of treatment is determined by a gynecologist or dermatovenerologist, but not less than 5 days, as part of complex therapy, and with monotherapy – at least a week.

Advantages and disadvantages

The disadvantage of Candida is a sufficient degree of addiction of pathogens of fungal infections to clotrimazole. Still, Clotrimazole has been used for many years, and like all organisms that resist harmful substances, fungi gradually develop immunity to clotrimazole. But in uncomplicated cases, Candide copes quite effectively with thrush, especially in patients with good immunity. For this drug, contraindications for use are pregnancy, hypersensitivity to clotrimazole, and in women, when applied topically, the period of menstruation. Also, Clotrimazole can cause various side effects, of which most often patients note itching, hives, skin redness and a slight burning sensation. It must also be remembered that this drug should never be applied to the skin near the eyes.

Gynofort cream (butoconazole)

Rating: 4.7

The Gynofort vaginal cream, which is produced by the Hungarian pharmaceutical company Gedeon Richter, can be purchased in a retail pharmacy for 600 rubles. for a package of 5 grams of the drug in a special box. The active ingredient is butaconazole. Each gram of vaginal cream contains 20 mg of active ingredient. In addition to the causative agents of thrush, this drug is active against the causative agent of microsporia, trichophytes and epidermophytes, and even some gram-positive microorganisms with a thick cell wall.

But still, it is preferable to use Gynofort for candidiasis. It, gradually accumulating in the cell membrane of the fungus, increases its permeability, which leads to the death of fungal cells. Cream for vaginal use is an emulsion, therefore, the ability to adhere to the cells of the vaginal mucosa in butoconazole increases. This leads to increased bioavailability, and the adhesion to the surface itself is called bioadhesion. As a result, with a single application of this cream, it is able to stay on the vaginal mucosa and provide a therapeutic effect for at least 4 days. This medication is applied with the applicator once a day, at any time, regardless of the intake of other medications.

Advantages and disadvantages

The big advantage of the cream from thrush Gynofort is the ability to stay on the vaginal mucosa for a long time after a single use. A relative disadvantage of Gynofort is a rather high price, which starts from 600 rubles, and ranges for the same package up to 770 rubles, as well as the possibility of irritation of the mucous membrane, after which it is necessary to stop treatment.

The best pills for thrush

In the treatment of any fungal disease, there are indications when only one local therapy, using suppositories, creams or ointments, will not be enough. In this case, oral preparations for internal use are needed, in capsules or tablets that are capable of creating an effective concentration of antifungal or fungicidal drug in the blood.

In the event that the use of antifungal capsules or tablets is combined with local treatment, then thrush will be attacked 'from both sides', both from the surface of the mucous membrane or skin, and from the side of the bloodstream. It is this combined method of treatment that allows you to most quickly cope with the manifestations of candidiasis in patients with compromised immunity.

Diflucan (fluconazole)

Rating: 4.9

The drug Diflucan in capsules is produced by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer, USA, and one capsule with a dosage of 150 mg costs 200 rubles. In addition, 4 capsules are produced at a price of 700 rubles. Diflucan is a highly effective drug for the treatment of genital candidiasis. The active ingredient is fluconazole, a modern fungicidal preparation with a high degree of activity against both the vegetative forms of the fungus and its spores.

The mechanism of action of the drug is to stop the synthesis of the fungal cell of substances that make up its wall. Thus, the fungal cell becomes fragile and quickly degrades. In addition to various forms of thrush, fluconazole is indicated for the treatment of cryptococcal infections, microsporia, and trichophytosis. In the event that candidiasis has become disseminated, and has passed from the mucous membranes to the internal organs, then it is necessary to be treated under the supervision of specialists, and take at least 400 mg on the first day of treatment, which should be long-term. In the case of uncomplicated vaginal candidiasis, this drug is taken only once – one capsule of 150 mg.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of tablets for thrush Diflucan include the high chemical purity of the original substance, ideal compliance with uncomplicated forms of vaginal candidiasis, of the 'take and forget' type. But when treating with fluconazole, it is imperative to take into account the possibility of drug interactions with various anticoagulants, azithromycin, benzodiazepines, cytostatics, contraceptives and diuretics, as well as a variety of antiviral agents and drugs for the treatment of asthma. Therefore, treatment with fluconazole tablets must be performed only under medical supervision.

Orungal, Irunin, (itraconazole)

Rating: 4.8

Orungal, a drug made by the renowned pharmaceutical company Janssen-Cilag, is one of the most expensive of all itraconazole drugs on the domestic market. Compare for yourself: a package of 14 capsules of 100 mg each will cost starting from 2300 rubles. for one package.

If we compare Orungal with other itraconazole preparations, then the same package of Irunin will cost 690 rubles, Itrazol – 360 rubles, and itraconazole produced by Ratiopharm – only 285 rubles, this is an Indian drug. Thus, you can choose a drug to your taste at any cost, but, of course, the effect will be different.

Orungal, he effectively and provenly fights not only with various symptoms of candidiasis, both with nail and skin lesions, and with candidal stomatitis and vaginitis. Orungal is able to eliminate fungal sepsis, it fights sporotrichosis, it treats cryptococcal pneumonia, versicolor versicolor, and various other mycoses, including those with HIV infection. One capsule contains 100 mg of the active ingredient, and in case of banal vulvovaginal candidiasis, one capsule is swallowed whole immediately after a meal.

Treatment is carried out in the mildest cases with the use of 200 mg of the drug in the form of a single injection, or therapy continues for 3 days with the use of 200 mg of Orungal twice a day. In severe and systemic forms of candidiasis, such treatment can last up to 7 months.

Advantages and disadvantages

The remedy for thrush Orungal is one of the few highly effective fungicides available in tablets. The image of the Janssen-Cilag company does not allow for the production of products from low-quality or low-quality substances, which have dubious effectiveness. But itraconazole also has contraindications: in addition to hypersensitivity, it is very important for the patient to understand that if he has symptoms of chronic heart failure or signs of left ventricular dysfunction, then treatment with this drug must be stopped urgently. In the event that itraconazole and Orungal are used without a doctor's prescription, taking into account contraindications, then sometimes, however, in rare cases, there were edemas and symptoms of chronic heart failure. Also, Orungal is not used in patients with cirrhosis of the liver, in the case of chronic renal failure and in children.

After the destruction of pathogenic microflora and fungi, cleaning the mucous membranes of the vagina and uterine cavity from fungal infection, it is necessary to restore the protective barriers of vaginal mucus, the protective function of the cervix, eliminate alkalization of the internal genital organs and increase acidity. It is known that lactic acid is secreted by vaginal lactobacilli, or Dederlein's sticks. It is their disappearance that guarantees the free and unhindered introduction and reproduction of fungi. Therefore, after the treatment of vaginal candidiasis, it is necessary to start using drugs – eubiotics, which contain strains of ready-made lactobacilli, as well as an auxiliary medium that facilitates their settlement.

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Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.