Thrush is uncomfortable, but it's usually easy to clear. The right thrush treatment depends on where the infection is, whether it's your first time, and what suits you best, whether that's a single tablet, a pessary or a cream.
This guide walks through the main options, including Fluconazole, Canesten and clotrimazole creams, how to treat thrush in women and men, and what to do if it keeps coming back. Want to know why you got it in the first place? Our guide to what causes thrush covers the triggers.
Most thrush clears within one to two weeks of starting treatment. If it doesn't, that's a sign to get checked rather than try another pack.
What are the symptoms of thrush?
It's worth being sure it's thrush before you treat it. Other infections, such as bacterial vaginosis or some STIs, can cause similar symptoms.1
Genital thrush
In women, thrush usually causes white discharge that looks a bit like cottage cheese and doesn't normally smell. It's often itchy and sore around the vagina and vulva, and it may sting when you pee or have sex.1
In men, it usually causes redness, irritation and burning around the head of the penis and under the foreskin. You might notice a white discharge, an unpleasant smell or difficulty pulling the foreskin back.1
Oral thrush
Oral thrush causes white patches in the mouth that can be wiped off, leaving red areas underneath that may bleed a little. Your mouth may feel sore or burning, food may taste odd, and the corners of your mouth can crack.2
First time with these symptoms? See a GP or sexual health clinic to confirm it's thrush before treating it yourself.
Thrush treatment options
Thrush is treated with antifungal medicines. They come as tablets you swallow, pessaries or creams you insert into the vagina, and creams you apply to the skin.1
Fluconazole
Fluconazole is a single capsule you swallow. It stops candida, the yeast that causes thrush, making ergosterol, a key part of its cell membrane. Without it, the yeast can't grow.3
It's convenient because it's one dose, and it works for both women and men. Pharmacy fluconazole is suitable for people aged 16 to 60.3
Canesten pessary and internal cream
The Canesten Pessary is a small tablet you insert into your vagina with an applicator, usually at bedtime. It contains clotrimazole and treats the infection directly where it is.
If you'd rather not use a pessary, Canesten Thrush Internal Cream does the same job as a cream with an applicator.
It's normal to notice small, chalky bits of the pessary coming out over the next day or two. That doesn't mean it hasn't worked.
Clotrimazole external creams
External creams help ease the itching and soreness on the outside.
Canesten Duo
Canesten Duo combines a 150mg fluconazole capsule with a 2% clotrimazole external cream. The capsule tackles the infection, while the cream soothes the itching while you wait for it to work.
Pairing an internal treatment with an external cream is a good way to get some relief from itching while the infection clears.
How to treat thrush in women
Women can use any of the options above: a fluconazole capsule, a pessary or internal cream, an external cream, or a combination.
You should not take fluconazole if you're pregnant, trying for a baby or breastfeeding. Speak to a GP or midwife instead, as they can recommend a treatment that's suitable.1
Antifungal creams and pessaries can damage latex condoms and diaphragms, so they may not protect you during treatment.1 Your leaflet will say how long to use other protection afterwards.
Do not use fluconazole if you're pregnant or could be. Speak to a GP or midwife about a safer option.
For more on keeping things healthy down there, see our guide to feminine hygiene.
How to treat thrush in men
Men can treat thrush with a fluconazole capsule, an external clotrimazole cream, or Canesten Duo. Pessaries and internal creams are for vaginal thrush only.
Wash the area with water rather than soap, dry it gently under the foreskin, and wear loose cotton underwear while it heals.1
If you have diabetes and get thrush, or it keeps coming back, see a GP. They may want to check your blood sugar.
How to treat oral thrush
Oral thrush is usually treated with miconazole gel, such as Daktarin Oral Gel, which is available from pharmacies. Our guide on how to use Daktarin Oral Gel explains how to apply it.
If you take warfarin, you should not use over-the-counter Daktarin Oral Gel, as the combination can cause serious bleeding.4 A GP can suggest an alternative.
How to treat recurring thrush
If you get thrush more than 4 times in 12 months, it's classed as recurring thrush. A GP can confirm the diagnosis, look for an underlying cause and may recommend a longer course of treatment for up to 6 months.1
You should not use pharmacy thrush treatment more than twice in 6 months without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.1 Our guide to recurring thrush explains more.
Thrush that keeps returning deserves a proper look. Repeated self-treatment can mask another infection or condition.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if the Canesten pessary is working?
You should notice your symptoms, such as itching, soreness and discharge, start to ease within a few days. It’s normal to see small, chalky bits of the pessary come out afterwards. Thrush should clear within 7 to 14 days of starting treatment. If your symptoms haven’t improved by then, speak to a pharmacist or GP.
Why am I still itchy after using a Canesten pessary?
Some itching can carry on for a few days while your skin recovers, even when the treatment is working. An external clotrimazole cream can help soothe it in the meantime. If itching is getting worse, or hasn’t eased within 7 days, see a pharmacist or GP, as it could be a different infection.
How long does thrush last?
With treatment, thrush should clear up within 7 to 14 days. Most people start to feel better within a few days. Without treatment, it can last much longer and may keep coming back. If symptoms haven’t improved after a week or two of treatment, speak to a pharmacist or GP.
Can thrush go away on its own?
Mild thrush sometimes clears up by itself, but it often lingers or comes back without treatment. Antifungal treatment is quick and easy, so it’s usually worth using. If it’s your first time with symptoms, see a GP or sexual health clinic to confirm it’s thrush before treating it.
How long does fluconazole take to work?
Many people start to feel better within a few days of taking a fluconazole capsule, and thrush should clear within 7 to 14 days of starting treatment. If your symptoms haven’t improved by then, or they come back, speak to a pharmacist or GP. You may need a different treatment or a check for other infections.
References
- NHS. Thrush in men and women. NHS website; 2023. nhs.uk
- NHS. Oral thrush in adults. NHS website; 2023. nhs.uk
- NHS. Fluconazole. NHS website; 2023. nhs.uk
- Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. Miconazole (Daktarin): over-the-counter oral gel contraindicated in patients taking warfarin. GOV.UK; 2017. gov.uk
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with your medication and speak to a healthcare professional if you have specific concerns.