Yeast infections, also called candidiasis, are a fungal disease that is caused by a fungus-like yeast, according to HealthScout. Until recently, patients with yeast infections needed to consult a doctor and get a prescription for an antifungal drug. However, patients can now purchase some over-the-counter antifungal drugs. Know the options for treating yeast infections so that you can choose the best drug for your particular situation.
Polyenes
Amphpotericin B and Nystatin are antifungal drugs from the polyene family, according to the American Society for Microbiology. Polyenes have been reported to interfere with the proper formation of fungal cell walls. Nystatin is used for simple yeast infections, according to HealthScout.com, and is usually given as a vaginal suppository that is used twice daily for seven to 10 days.
Amphotericin B is the more powerful polyene drug. However, amphotericin B has can also affect mammalian cells as well as fungal cells. Therefore, Amphotericin B has been associated with numerous side effects and is usually not used for yeast infections.
Older Imidazoles
A family of antifungal drugs, called imdazoles, includes miconazole and clotrimazole. Both of these drugs are listed by DiscoveryHealth.com as examples of prescription drugs that have been reclassified into over-the-counter drugs.
Imidazole drugs work by interacting with a substance on the fungal cell wall called ergosterol. According to the American Society for Microbiology, ergosterol regulates the integrity of fungal cells. The drug causes the fungus to not form properly, resulting in it being destroyed.
Newer Imidazoles
Older imidazoles had side effects, and new fungal strains were becoming resistant to the drugs. Newer imidazoles, like butoconazole and ketoconazole, according to the American Society for Microbiology, are used to avoid some of the older imidazoles' side effects.
These newer imidazoles can be used in patients who have had recurrent yeast infections. Patients who are experiencing their first yeast infection, have abdominal pain with a yeast infection, or are diabetic, HIV-positive or pregnant, should consult their doctor before using an over-the-counter antifungal medication. Patients with these conditions will be prescribed a specific antifungal treatment that may require a longer period of treatment.
