Everything You Need
to Know About Fluconazole

Written by Kathleen Morrison
Medically Reviewed by Andrea Sleeth WHNP-BC, MSCP

Anyone who's felt that familiar yeast infection itch knows that when it strikes, you're looking for relief-fast. Over-the-counter creams are some of the first treatments people turn to, but they can be messy and often require multiple applications to work.

Providers tend to prefer a prescription yeast medication called fluconazole (Diflucan). These yeast pills are just that—a Fluconazole 150 mg tablet that you take orally.

It's simple and easy to take and is one of the most effective and reliable yeast infection prescription treatments. If you're looking for an easy yeast infection solution and are considering Fluconazole, here's what you need to know.

Wisp treatment options are available only after consultation with a licensed medical professional. You should consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement or treatment regimen. Individual results may vary.

How does Fluconazole work?

Fluconazole is an antifungal medicine used to treat infections caused by, well, fungus.

And yeast infections (vaginal candidiasis) are fungal infections that happen when something disrupts your vagina’s natural pH balance and natural balance of bacteria. This disruption can lead to an overgrowth of a yeast called Candida, an infection-causing fungus that often exists in your vagina without causing any problems.

However, when populations of Candida increase, it leads to inflammation, unusual discharge (people often describe it as having a “cottage cheese” look and texture), and that dreaded itch.

Fluconazole helps your body fight back against Candida fungal infections by limiting its ability to multiply and killing off existing yeast cells.

Often, one dose of Fluconazole (a single 150 mg dose) is enough to treat a yeast infection completely, but if not, a second tablet may be prescribed to get the job done.

Fluconazole may also be prescribed for people receiving chemotherapy or radiation, or before a bone marrow transplant. This is to stop fungal infections from occurring due to weakened immune systems.

Fluconazole side effects (so you’re not caught off guard)

Most people tolerate Fluconazole pretty well, but like any medication, it can come with side effects.

Here’s the quick rundown.

• Common side effects: headache, nausea, stomach pain
• Rare but serious side effects: liver problems, serious skin reactions, anaphylaxis

This list doesn’t include all possible side effects. If anything feels off or unexpected, it’s always a good idea to check in with your health care provider and make sure you’re on the right track.

Should I take Fluconazole for a yeast infection?

If you are someone who experiences recurring infections or are sure you have a yeast infection, taking Fluconazole is a great option! Recurring infections (4 or more per year) likely require additional evaluation from your provider.

It's a very effective medication and can work to interrupt a cycle of frequent infections. Plus, it's super affordable and easy to get a prescription for Fluconazole online.

Keep in mind that yeast infections do have symptoms that overlap with other common vaginal infections, so if you aren't quite sure what you're dealing with, take a symptoms quiz or message a doctor to ask questions.

Typically, vaginal yeast infection symptoms consist of:

• Itching
• White and chunky discharge
• Odorless discharge, or a very mild yeast infection smell
• Burning when urine touches raw, irritated skin

A yeast infection can also be confused with bacterial vaginosis, but there are key differences when it comes to BV symptoms:

• Intense “fishy” vaginal odor
• Thin grey or greenish discharge
• Itching
• Burning during urination

If you’re experiencing unusual odor and grey or green discharge, you’re likely dealing with BV.

But if you just aren’t sure, it’s always best to consult with a doctor who can provide the proper diagnosis and treatment!

Does Fluconazole treat BV?

Fluconazole is a go-to for yeast infections, but when it comes to bacterial infections like BV, it’s not quite the right fit.

BV happens when there’s an imbalance in the vaginal microbiome, often leading to a fishy odor, unusual discharge, and discomfort.

Since it’s caused by bacteria—not yeast—it needs a different approach. Prescription antibiotics like metronidazole or intravaginal clindamycin are typically the best way to clear up BV.

If you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with a yeast infection or BV, you’re not alone. They can have overlapping vaginal symptoms, and it’s easy to mix them up.

Checking in with a healthcare provider can help determine the right treatment and get things back on track.

Can I take Fluconazole and Boric Acid together?

Yes! Fluconazole and boric acid can work well together in certain situations. Fluconazole is used to treat yeast infections from the inside out, while boric acid suppositories can help support a balanced vaginal environment.

Some people use boric acid even after taking prescription antifungal medication to help support their vaginal health and keep things balanced down there, infection or not.

That said, boric acid is powerful, so it's important to follow proper dosing instructions and check in with a healthcare provider if you're not sure it's right for you.

If symptoms aren't clearing up or infections keep coming back, there may be an underlying cause worth exploring.

Side effects to watch out for with this combination:

First and foremost, medical-grade boric acid is for vaginal use only. It can be toxic if swallowed, so it should never be taken by mouth and must be kept away from children and animals.

Now, as for side effects, here’s what to watch for:

Side effects to report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions, such as skin rash, itching, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Unusual vaginal discharge, itching, or odor

Side effects that usually don’t require medical attention:

• Vaginal irritation at the application site

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Always speak with your health care provider if you have questions or concerns.

When should I take a second Fluconazole?

Once you’re sure you have a yeast infection and decide to get prescription Fluconazole treatment, your healthcare provider may prescribe two to three 150 mg tablets.

The first dose should do the trick, but a stubborn yeast infection may require an extra antifungal kick to get the job done. In this case, a second (and even a third) dose can be taken 72 hours later. However, it's important to get the go-ahead and exact Fluconazole dosage details from your healthcare provider.

How dosing typically works (adult examples)

Based on established medical references and prescribing guidelines, common dosing includes:

• Vaginal yeast infection: One single 150 mg oral dose. Some people may need repeat doses or weekly preventive dosing, especially with frequent infections or a compromised immune system.
• Uncomplicated yeast infections of the mouth or throat: 200 mg on day one, followed by 100-200 mg once daily for 7-14 days.
• Other infections: For infections such as certain UTIs or peritonitis caused by fungi, studies have used daily doses ranging from 50 mg to 200 mg, depending on severity and organism involved.

Should your symptoms fail to improve after the allotted time, let your provider know, and they may prescribe you a different medication or a more intensive treatment regimen with Fluconazole.

How long does it take for Fluconazole to work?

Fluconazole typically starts working within 24 hours to bring relief from yeast infection symptoms.

But how long it takes for symptoms to fully clear depends on the infection being treated.

Mild infections generally take a few days, while severe infections may take longer to reach full effect.

If itching, irritation, or discharge persists beyond that window, the infection may need a little extra attention-sometimes, a second dose is necessary.

Everyone's body responds differently, and factors like the severity of the infection being treated or overall health can play a role in how long Fluconazole takes to work.

People who take certain medications or have weakened immune systems may take longer to see results.

Staying hydrated, wearing breathable fabrics, and giving the body time to heal can help support the process. If symptoms linger or come back frequently, checking in with a healthcare provider is a good next step.

What can happen within 24 hours

If you're wondering how quickly Fluconazole can start to work, here's a breakdown of what you might notice in the first day:

Symptoms that often improve quickly:

• Itching
• Burning
• Irritation

Symptoms that may take longer:

• Thick discharge
• Full internal healing

The Fluconazole starts reducing your discomfort pretty fast, but clearing the infection completely can take one to two weeks for some people.

So, try to be patient with your body while it does its thing.

How to get rid of a yeast infection in a day?

Let's be real-if you're dealing with a yeast infection, you probably want it gone yesterday.

But yeast infections cannot be fully cured in 24 hours. Even with prescription treatment, your body needs time to rid itself of the overgrown yeast and restore balance.

The good news? Symptom relief can begin within a day when treated correctly. Many people notice reduced itching and burning within the first 24 hours.

But even though you might feel better fast, the medication continues working behind the scenes for several days to fully clear the infection.

For stubborn infections, Fluconazole may be prescribed as multiple doses, sometimes with the second dose taken 72 hours after the first. In more complex cases, like oral thrush or serious infections, treatment can take one to two weeks or even longer.

The key is following your provider's instructions and giving your body the time it needs to fully heal.

Why does my yeast infection keep coming back?

Many people experience recurrent or chronic yeast infection symptoms that leave them wondering, “Why does my yeast infection keep coming back?”

There are a few different possible causes of these repeat symptoms:

• Your initial infection wasn't treated completely
• You're creating humid or moist conditions for Candida to thrive
• You have a drug-resistant strain of yeast
• Your vaginal bacteria is out of whack
• You have a weakened immune system

At the end of the day, your body chemistry might just make you a bit more prone to yeast infections.

Staying clean and dry in cotton undies, sticking with loose-fitting clothes, and making sure you consult with a doctor when you have yeast infection symptoms are all great ways to stay on top of your vaginal health and break a cycle of recurrent infections.

Can you get yeast infections from having sex?

If you do have frequent yeast infections, especially if they occur after sex, you may be wondering if you can get a yeast infection from sex.

Yes, it's entirely possible for sex to trigger a yeast infection, but that doesn't mean it's an STI.

Sex can be a contributing factor in disrupting your vaginal ecosystem, which in turn can lead to a yeast infection.

In rare cases, a person with a penis can get a yeast infection if they have vaginal sex with someone who has a yeast infection. It's also possible to pass yeast infections between female partners.

That's why it's usually best to put yourself out of commission until your infection clears up.

Kicking Yeast Infections to the Curb

Yeast infections are frustrating, but they don’t have to take over your life. Fluconazole is a trusted, effective way to get relief and get back to feeling like yourself. Whether it’s your first infection or a recurring issue, understanding how this medication works—and when to reach out for extra support—can make all the difference.

If you’re dealing with an infection and need fast, hassle-free prescription treatment, Wisp has got you covered. Skip the in-person waiting room and get Fluconazole delivered discreetly to your door or sent to your local pharmacy. Get the help you need today.

This blog post is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the information provided here.