Terzol

Indications

Terconazole is used inside the vagina to treat vaginal yeast infection (vulvovaginal candidiasis, often called thrush), which causes itching, burning, soreness and a thick white discharge. It is available as a vaginal cream and as vaginal suppositories (pessaries).

How It Works

Terconazole is a triazole antifungal. It blocks the fungus from making ergosterol, an essential part of its cell membrane. The membrane becomes leaky and the yeast (Candida) stops growing and dies.

Dosage and Administration

• 0.4% vaginal cream: one applicatorful inserted into the vagina at bedtime for 7 nights in a row.
• 0.8% vaginal cream: one applicatorful at bedtime for 3 nights in a row.
• 80 mg vaginal suppository: one inserted at bedtime for 3 nights in a row.

Use the full course even during a menstrual period and even if symptoms improve early. Wash your hands before and after use. Lie on your back to insert the dose and remain lying down to reduce leakage; a panty liner may help. Use as directed by your doctor.

Interactions

Very little terconazole reaches the blood, so interactions are uncommon. The base of the cream and suppositories can weaken latex condoms and diaphragms, so they may not protect against pregnancy or infections during treatment and for 3 days after. Avoid tampons, douches and other vaginal products during treatment.

Contraindications

Do not use if you are allergic to terconazole or any ingredient of the product.

Side Effects

• Headache
• Vaginal burning, itching or irritation
• Painful periods, stomach pain
• Fever or chills (uncommon)

Stop using it and get urgent medical help if you develop a widespread rash, hives, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, or flu-like symptoms with fever, chills, dizziness or low blood pressure soon after a dose.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Do not use in the first 3 months of pregnancy unless a doctor advises it; later in pregnancy, use only under medical advice, and the applicator should be used gently or avoided. It is not known if it passes into breast milk; ask your doctor before use while breastfeeding.

Precautions and Warnings

For vaginal use only; do not swallow. See a doctor before use if this is your first yeast infection, if you have frequent infections (4 or more a year), fever, pelvic or abdominal pain, a foul-smelling discharge, diabetes, a weak immune system or a possible sexually transmitted infection. See a doctor if symptoms do not improve within 3 days or are not gone after 7 days. Avoid sex during treatment.

Overdose

Overdose is unlikely with vaginal use. If the product is swallowed, contact a doctor or poison centre.

Therapeutic Class

Vaginal antifungal, triazole antifungal agent.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Do not freeze the cream; keep suppositories away from heat so they do not melt.