Diflucan is the brand name for the medication fluconazole. It can be used to treat several different types of fungal infections and is commonly used to treat yeast infections of the vagina, also called Candida vulvovaginitis.

Candida vulvovaginitis occurs when fungal microorganisms from the Candida family overgrow, leading to irritation, itching, and a burning sensation in the vaginal area. Diflucan acts by damaging Candidas cellular structure and inhibiting its ability to reproduce. Depending on the severity of the infection Diflucan can be prescribed as a single dose, as a series of doses taken every three days, or as a daily medication taken for ten to fourteen days.

How Long Does Diflucan Take to Work

For mild, uncomplicated, infections Diflucan is prescribed as a single 150 mg dose and an improvement in symptoms is usually seen within one to three days. If a single dose does not completely relieve symptoms, or the infection is severe, Diflucan can be prescribed as three consecutive doses given three days apart. With this regimen it's expected that symptoms should improve within one to two weeks. If symptoms continue despite appropriate treatment, Diflucan may be prescribed for every days use for ten to fourteen days, and even continued once per week for six months.

Other Ways to Control Infection

Candida and bacteria are a normal part of the vaginal environment. When the balance between bacteria and Candida is altered, either can overgrow. Conditions such as pregnancy, diabetes, HIV, use of antibiotics, or use of oral contraceptive pills can disrupt this balance and lead to an overgrowth of Candida. Additionally, habits that trap heat and moisture in the vaginal area can allow overgrowth.

While Diflucan can be an extremely quick and effective way to control an overgrowth of vaginal Candida, several other habits can help prevent an overgrowth from occurring or recurring. Examples of these are:

  • Avoiding tight fitting clothing
  • Wearing cotton, as opposed to synthetic, undergarments
  • Avoiding wearing wet clothes, such as bathing suits or gym clothes, longer than necessary
  • Avoiding washing with harsh antibacterial soaps and cleansers

Most women will develop a yeast infection at some point in their lives. If symptoms of Candida vulvovaginitis persist despite adequate treatment and avoidance of triggering activities, it is important to be evaluated for other potential causes or risk factors.

Discussions(7) Add New

  1. Abdieso September 02, 2011 09:27 PM Reply

    Someone told me that diflucan can be used for later pregnancy. But my doctor does not prescribe it for me. For baby’s safety, you should be careful. Monistat or some other creams may worth to have a try.

  2. Ayala September 07, 2011 09:39 PM Reply

    It seems only diflucan works for my yeast infection. Neither terazol nor monistat helped for me. But I’ve heard diflucan have some side effects and it should not be used during pregnancy. Is that true?

  3. Puranjay October 17, 2011 09:06 PM Reply

    I have been a yeast infection for a year. It annoys me. I like to add that my spot is red and sometimes I need a hard rub. I called on a gyno and she told me this is an ordinary infection. She prescribed me the cream and the pill. I felt slightly well after using them. But, it is still exasperating. How long does it take for a yeast infection to go away? Can I have sex normally? Such conditions make me crazy!

  4. Burgess October 24, 2011 09:27 AM Reply

    Thanks for the article! I am dealing with diabetes. I use monistat for easing yeast infection (I face yeast infection nearly each month!). It usually takes three to seven days to overcome. When the infection turns out to be bad, I need diflucan and it takes two weeks to finish the course. I know this is an irritating experience.

  5. Abha December 09, 2011 01:51 AM Reply

    Hello! I suffered from the yeast infection. I had the Monistat. I know everyone worry about how long does a yeast infection last. For my experience, it took four to five days to be cured. I need to use loose trousers. If you have the tight pants, these do not help you feel better. I do not have adequate knowledge about the effects of the medicines. However, I think you feel good. Sometimes, it takes time to heal it.

  6. Nandita March 09, 2012 11:02 PM Reply

    For treating yeast infection, it is better not to use soap for any type of wash. The normal water can work well for you. If you go to the gym, take some two-piece sports outfit before going home. You need to remove those sweaty clothes otherwise you are to be in problem. The annoyance shows the normal state in the morning. Depending on the strain, you can remove it. There are many medications to resist the strains and these take a long period to alleviate the problem. If the area turns out to be excessively red and annoyed than the last time, it means you are going to have a fully developed reaction. If the reaction is continued, you need to have yeast cultured and also need to figure out the kind of resistance as well. Sometimes, it takes a long course of treatment to eliminate the disease.

  7. Vedmundr April 03, 2012 06:14 AM Reply

    I do not know how long yeast infections last. I had the itching problem in my vulva just two months back. I met an NP. She informed that there was a yeast infection outside the vagina. She prescribed me a three-day Terazol. The area still remained red and irritated. I called on a gynecologist. She cultured the area and took an investigation. She found some yeast infection of the skin surrounding my vagina and provided me diflucan and Monistat 7. I used both pill and cream. Initially, I felt better but till now the area still remains red. I go to the gym often and I take Dial bar soap. Would you tell me about this soap and the problem please!