Why is this medication prescribed?

Monistat 7 Cream is a common over-the-counter (OTC) medication used to treat vaginal yeast infections, also known as vaginal candidiasis. It is not typically prescribed by a healthcare professional, as it is available without a prescription at most pharmacies and drugstores.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Monistat 7 Cream is typically used:

• Read the Instructions: Always start by carefully reading the product’s package insert and instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will provide important information about proper usage and any potential side effects or contraindications.
• Wash Your Hands: Before applying the cream, wash your hands thoroughly to ensure cleanliness.
• Prepare the Applicator: Monistat 7 Cream usually comes with applicators. Fill the applicator with the cream as directed on the package. It’s important to use the applicator to ensure proper and even distribution of the medication.
• Administer the Cream: Typically, you will lie on your back with your knees bent and gently insert the filled applicator into the vagina as far as it comfortably goes. Slowly press the plunger to release the cream. Withdraw the applicator and discard it properly.
• Wash Your Hands Again: After application, wash your hands again to avoid spreading the cream to unintended areas.
• Follow the Dosage Instructions: Monistat 7 Cream is usually used once a day at bedtime for seven consecutive days, as indicated by the “7” in its name. Make sure to use the cream for the full course, even if your symptoms improve before completing it.
• Avoid Sexual Activity: It’s generally recommended to avoid sexual activity while using Monistat 7 Cream, as it may weaken latex condoms and diaphragms, potentially reducing their effectiveness as contraception or protection against sexually transmitted infections.
• Monitor and Consult: If your symptoms do not improve or worsen after using Monistat 7 Cream as directed, or if you experience severe irritation, rash, or any other unusual side effects, stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

It’s essential to follow the instructions provided with the product and consult a healthcare professional if you have any doubts or concerns about using Monistat 7 Cream or if you are unsure whether a vaginal yeast infection is the cause of your symptoms. Pregnant women, individuals with certain medical conditions, or those taking specific medications should also seek medical advice before using this or any other medication.

Other uses for this medicine

Monistat 7 Cream is primarily intended for the treatment of vaginal yeast infections (vaginal candidiasis), and its usage for other purposes should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Using it for conditions other than what it is designed for may not be effective and could lead to unnecessary risks or complications.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to consider when using Monistat 7 Cream include:

• Consultation with a Healthcare Provider: If you are unsure about your symptoms or have never had a vaginal yeast infection diagnosed by a healthcare provider, it’s advisable to seek medical advice before using Monistat 7 Cream. Other vaginal infections or conditions may present similar symptoms, and a proper diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Pregnant women should consult a healthcare provider before using Monistat 7 Cream. While it is generally considered safe during pregnancy, a healthcare provider can provide guidance on its usage. If you are breastfeeding, consult a healthcare professional before using this medication as well.
• Allergies and Sensitivities: Inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have allergies to any of the ingredients in Monistat 7 Cream or if you have experienced allergies or sensitivities to similar medications in the past.
• Condoms and Diaphragms: Monistat 7 Cream may weaken latex condoms and diaphragms. If you are using these forms of contraception or protection against sexually transmitted infections, it’s advisable to use alternative methods or avoid sexual activity while using the cream and for a few days afterward.
• Adverse Reactions: If you experience severe irritation, burning, itching, rash, or any other unusual or severe side effects while using Monistat 7 Cream, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
• Incomplete Treatment: Ensure you complete the full seven-day course of Monistat 7 Cream, even if your symptoms improve before the treatment is completed. Stopping too soon may not fully clear the infection and could lead to a recurrence.
• Vaginal Discharge: It is normal to have a small amount of vaginal discharge during the course of treatment with Monistat 7 Cream. However, if you experience abnormal or increased discharge or other unexpected symptoms, contact a healthcare provider.
• Avoid Tampons: While using Monistat 7 Cream, it’s generally recommended to avoid using tampons, as they may absorb and reduce the effectiveness of the medication. Use sanitary pads or panty liners instead.

Always follow the instructions provided with the product and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about using Monistat 7 Cream, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications. Your healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance based on your specific health situation

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions associated with the use of Monistat 7 Cream. However, it’s a good practice to maintain a healthy diet and avoid excessive sugar intake, as excessive sugar can contribute to yeast infections in some individuals.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to use Monistat 7 Cream, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Monistat 7 Cream, when used as directed, is generally considered safe and well-tolerated by most individuals. However, like any medication, it can potentially cause side effects in some people. Common side effects of Monistat 7 Cream may include:

• Mild Vaginal Irritation: Some individuals may experience mild burning, itching, or irritation in the vaginal area after applying the cream. This is usually temporary and should subside shortly after application.
• Abnormal Discharge: During treatment with Monistat 7 Cream, you may notice changes in your vaginal discharge, such as increased discharge or a different consistency. These changes are typically a temporary reaction to the medication.
• Rash or Redness: In rare cases, some individuals may develop a rash or experience redness or swelling in the genital area. If this occurs and is severe or persistent, discontinue use of the cream and consult a healthcare provider.

It’s important to note that these side effects are usually mild and short-lived. If you experience severe or persistent discomfort, rash, or any unusual or severe side effects while using Monistat 7 Cream, it’s essential to discontinue use and seek medical advice.

Additionally, it’s possible, though uncommon, for individuals to be allergic or hypersensitive to any of the ingredients in Monistat 7 Cream. If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

It’s always a good practice to read the package insert that comes with the product for a complete list of potential side effects and to consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any concerns about using Monistat 7 Cream. They can provide guidance based on your individual health and medical history.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage:

• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Keep Monistat 7 Cream in a cool, dry place at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid storing it in the bathroom, as the humidity can affect the stability of the medication.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children and Pets: Store the medication out of the reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion or contact.
• Check Expiry Date: Always check the expiration date on the packaging and do not use the product if it has expired.

Disposal:

• Dispose Properly: Dispose of the empty cream applicators and any unused or expired Monistat 7 Cream according to local regulations and guidelines for the disposal of pharmaceutical waste. Do not flush it down the toilet unless instructed to do so on the product label or by your healthcare provider.

In case of emergency/overdose

In the case of an emergency or if you suspect an overdose (e.g., accidental ingestion or excessive use of the cream), contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 (in the United States) or seek immediate medical attention. Be prepared to provide information about the product and the circumstances of the overdose.

What other information should I know

• Complete the Full Course: It’s important to complete the full seven-day course of Monistat 7 Cream as prescribed or as directed on the product label, even if your symptoms improve before the treatment is completed. Stopping treatment too soon may not fully clear the infection and could lead to a recurrence.
• Avoid Sexual Activity: During the course of treatment with Monistat 7 Cream, it’s generally recommended to avoid sexual activity, as the cream may weaken latex condoms and diaphragms, potentially reducing their effectiveness.
• Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your symptoms persist or worsen after using Monistat 7 Cream, or if you experience any unusual or severe side effects, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment.
• Allergies and Sensitivities: Inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have known allergies to any of the ingredients in Monistat 7 Cream or if you have experienced allergies or sensitivities to similar medications in the past.

Always follow the specific instructions provided with the product, and consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about using Monistat 7 Cream, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications. Your healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance based on your specific health situation.