Gyno-Daktarin

What is Gyno-Daktarin?

Gyno-Daktarin is an antifungal cream which is used to treat vaginal thrush. It contains the active ingredient miconazole nitrate, an antifungal that destroys the fungus Candida albicans, which causes thrush. The cream comes with a special applicator, which makes it easier to apply inside the vagina, but it can also be applied externally to help relieve the associated irritation.

Gyno-Daktarin cream is no longer available as it has been discontinued. If you are looking for a thrush treatment, our clinicians can help.

Understanding Vaginal Thrush

Vaginal thrush is a fungal infection which is caused by a naturally occurring fungus called Candida. This organism is typically found in the vagina and does not typically cause any problems. However, if the fungus multiplies exponentially, it can cause thrush.

The symptoms of vaginal thrush include:

• Irritation and itching around the vagina
• Pain during intercourse and urination
• Thick white or creamy-coloured, odourless discharge

Gyno-Daktarin clears the infection by killing the fungus.

How Does Gyno-Daktarin Work?

Gyno-Daktarin contains an antifungal called miconazole nitrate. This ingredient prevents fungal cells from producing ergosterol, which they need to survive. Without this chemical, fungal cell membranes weaken, and cell contents spill out. This kills the fungus, treats the infection, and relieves the uncomfortable symptoms of thrush.

Gyno-Daktarin treats thrush in the following ways:

1. Blocks the ergosterol-producing enzyme. Miconazole nitrate blocks the enzyme 14α-sterol demethylase, which is required for the production of ergosterol, an important component of fungal cell membranes.
2. Stops ergosterol production. By blocking the ergosterol-producing enzyme, Gyno-Daktarin prevents ergosterol from being made.
3. Weakens fungal cell membranes. Without the ability to produce ergosterol, the cell membrane develops holes, causing the cell contents to leak out.
4. Prevents fungal growth. Together, these actions stop the fungus from growing, multiplying, and reproducing, killing the fungus responsible for the infection.

How Long Does Gyno-Daktarin Cream Take to Work?

Some people notice an improvement in symptoms, such as itching and redness, within 2 to 3 days of starting Gyno-Daktarin, but it takes around 7 days to fully clear the thrush infection.

How Effective is Gyno-Daktarin Cream for Thrush?

An early study found that once daily treatment with 2% miconazole nitrate cream for 14 days resulted in 74.5% of people being cured of vaginal thrush during one course of therapy. The same study also found that side effects were minimal.

More recent research has shown that miconazole nitrate has a clinical cure rate of 80 to 95% when used intravaginally once daily for 2 weeks. Treatment regimens of 7 days or longer have cure rates similar to those of 14-day regimens.

How to Use Gyno-Daktarin Vaginal Cream

Gyno-Daktarin is available as a topical cream, which is applied to the vagina. It can also be applied to external thrush infections on the vulva if necessary.

Your clinician may suggest your treatment lasts for 7 days. This means you will need to apply the cream once daily before bedtime for 7 days. They will advise you on how much to use and how long you will need to use it for. To use Gyno-Daktarin vaginal cream, follow these instructions:

Filling the Applicator

1. Remove the cap from the tube, then use the cap top to pierce the metal seal.
2. Screw the yellow end of the applicator with the green band onto the tube.
3. Gently squeeze the tube while slowly pulling the applicator's inner white plunger until it reaches the stop mark.

Applying the Cream

1. Unscrew the filled applicator and replace the cap on the tube.
2. Lie down with your knees bent and spread apart. Insert the yellow end of the applicator with the green band into your vagina as far as it will comfortably go.
3. Push the plunger firmly but gently to release the cream into your vagina by pushing the plunger as far as it will go.
4. Remove the applicator and throw it away in your household rubbish.
5. Wash your hands with warm soapy water.
6. You may wish to use a sanitary towel, but the cream will not stain your skin or your clothes.

Treating an External Infection

1. Apply the cream to the affected area twice a day.
2. Lightly cover the skin around your vagina with a thin, even layer of cream.
3. Wash your hands with warm, soapy water after applying the cream.

You should continue to use Gyno-Daktarin for as long as your doctor tells you to, even if your symptoms subside. Stopping treatment early can lead to the infection recurring.

If You Forget to Use Gyno-Daktarin

If you forget to use Gyno Daktarin 2% vaginal cream as you usually would, there’s no need to worry. Simply apply the next dose as usual and keep to your usual schedule thereafter. Do not try to double-up your dose to make up for one you have missed.

If You Swallow Gyno-Daktarin Cream

Gyno-Daktarin should not be ingested. If you accidentally eat or swallow a large amount of cream, consult a doctor immediately or go straight to your nearest accident and emergency department.

Gyno-Daktarin Side Effects and Cautions

Before applying Gyno-Daktarin, it is important that you understand the potential side effects and cautions so you know what signs to look out for and when to contact a doctor for advice.

Possible Side Effects of Gyno-Daktarin

As with all medications, Gyno-Daktarin 2% vaginal cream can cause side effects, though not everyone will experience them. Nevertheless, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what to expect before starting treatment.

Potential Gyno-Daktarin side effects include:

• Stomach pain
• Skin rash or hives
• Low stomach pains
• Urine infections or pain when passing urine
• Feeling sick (nausea)
• Redness of the face
• Headaches
• Vaginal bleeding

You may also experience some local irritation around or inside the vagina, or an itching or burning sensation in the treated area. This is much milder than an allergic reaction, but you should tell your clinician or doctor if these symptoms continue.

If you get any side effects that are persistent or difficult to manage, speak to your doctor or clinician for advice. You can also report any side effects, even those not listed here, to the Yellow Card Scheme.

When to Stop Using Gyno-Daktarin

Stop using Gyno-Daktarin vaginal cream and seek advice immediately if you notice the following, as you may need medical treatment:

• Severe irritation or reddening of the skin
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing
• Light-headedness
• Other signs of allergies

These symptoms are quite rare and occur in only a small number of people.

Gyno-Daktarin Interactions and Warnings

Gyno-Daktarin vaginal cream may not be suitable for everyone. You should therefore read the following information or consult the Patient Information Leaflet before starting treatment to see if it’s safe for you to use. If you are still unsure, a clinician can help you make an informed decision.

You should not use Gyno-Daktarin cream if you are allergic to miconazole nitrate, any of the other ingredients in this medication, or similar antifungal treatments.

Precautions Before Treatment

It’s important that you tell your clinician or doctor if you are using a “barrier” method of contraception, such as condoms or diaphragms. Gyno-Daktarin cream can damage the latex and prevent them from working properly, so another type of contraceptive may be needed.

You should also ensure that you do not allow other people to use the same flannels or towels as you, so you do not pass on the infection.

Other Medicines and Gyno-Daktarin

Gyno-Daktarin cream may interact with other treatments you may be taking. As a result, you should always inform your clinician of any medicines you have bought, including prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal remedies.

This is especially the case if you are taking:

• Blood-thinning medicines (anticoagulants) such as warfarin
• Oral diabetes medications
• Medicines that act on the blood and heart vessels, such as verapamil and dihydropyridines
• A type of epilepsy treatment called phenytoin
• Medications to lower cholesterol called simvastatin or lovastatin

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Ask your clinician or doctor for advice before starting treatment if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant, or are planning a baby. You may still be able to use Gyno-Daktarin vaginal cream, but only if they think it is safe and suitable to do so.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gyno-Daktarin Cream