Ask the doctor: Can I treat myself for a yeast infection?
Prescription fluconazole (Diflucan) is most effective for treating infrequent yeast infections, and it is now available in an inexpensive, single-dose generic form. However, you can first try an over-the-counter antifungal cream such as miconazole nitrate (Monistat), clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin), or tioconazole (Vagistat-1), especially if it has worked for you in the past. These products usually come in one-to-three-day regimens. For complicated infections, you may need to stay on one or more antifungal drugs for seven to 14 days.
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