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Key takeaways
Yeast infections, primarily caused by Candida albicans, can be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medications, including azole antifungals in various forms.
Single-dose oral treatments (such as fluconazole) are taken in one day, though symptoms may take a few days to improve.
If left untreated, mild yeast infections may resolve on their own within a few days, but more serious infections require medical intervention to prevent worsening symptoms.
Yeast infections are common fungal infections that can cause uncomfortable symptoms, such as vaginal irritation, pain, and discharge that resembles cottage cheese. Most women experience a vaginal yeast infection at least once in their lives due to various causes, including antibiotic use or hormonal changes due to birth control or pregnancy. Although they more commonly affect women, yeast infections can also occur in men. Nevertheless, yeast infections are often mild and easy to treat, with an array of treatment options available. If you’re wondering how to get rid of a yeast infection, continue reading to learn about the potential treatment options available, including over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications.
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How to get rid of a yeast infection
A vaginal yeast infection, also known as vulvovaginal candidiasis, is typically caused by a type of yeast or fungus called Candida albicans. Different factors can affect the natural balance of bacteria and fungi in the vagina, leading to yeast overgrowth. The most common causes and risk factors of a yeast infection include:
- Use of antibiotics, steroids, or contraceptives
- Pregnancy
- Weakened immune system
- Diabetes
Yeast infection treatment options include prescription and OTC medicines, which come in brand-name and generic forms. Treatment options also come in different dosage forms, such as oral tablets and vaginal creams.
Mild or uncomplicated yeast infections usually resolve within a few days with short-course vaginal antifungal treatment. Certain OTC topical medications are designed to be used as a single dose to clear a mild infection quickly. However, if symptoms are more severe or do not improve, a prescription oral antifungal may be needed.
Azole antifungals are the main class of drugs used to treat yeast infections. They work by disrupting the fungal cell membrane, which stops the growth of the fungi causing the infection. Vaginal azole antifungals can be found both over the counter and by prescription, while oral pill forms need a prescription from a healthcare provider.
Can a yeast infection go away in one day?
Although some mild yeast infections resolve on their own, severe infections require treatment. Regardless, if you’re wondering how to get rid of a yeast infection in 24 hours, chances are slim. Even mild yeast infections could take a few days to clear. It’s best to consult a healthcare provider and get rid of a yeast infection early with an OTC or prescription treatment.
A single-dose oral drug, such as fluconazole, is one of the fastest ways to clear up a yeast infection. It can be taken in one day, but it may take a few days for symptoms to improve—and some people will need to take a second or third dose if advised by their healthcare provider. Single-dose vaginal treatments are available over the counter or with a prescription, depending on the drug, but fluconazole is available by prescription only.
Over-the-counter yeast infection treatments
Over-the-counter antifungal medications are available in creams or suppositories for internal application. They can be purchased as one-, three-, and seven-day treatments at local drug stores. These treatments are also available online for those who are uncomfortable buying them in the store.
With numerous OTC medications out there, it can be confusing to choose the best treatment. Some anti-itch creams or herbal remedies may seem attractive because of their cost and ease of use. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends treating vaginal yeast infections with intravaginal imidazoles, such as Monistat or Vagistat.
Monistat-1 (miconazole), Gyne-Lotrimin 3 (clotrimazole), and Vagistat-3 (miconazole) are available over the counter at pharmacies or online.
| Over-the-counter yeast infection treatments | |
|---|---|
| Monistat-1 (miconazole) | Coupons |
| Gyne-Lotrimin 3 (clotrimazole) | Coupons |
| Vagistat-3 (miconazole) | Coupons |
Remember to read the instructions for vaginal suppositories or creams carefully or ask for medical advice from a healthcare provider. Avoid stopping the medicine early, even if symptoms have subsided. While OTC treatments may be helpful, you might need a prescription medication if symptoms worsen or don’t seem to improve.
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Prescription yeast infection treatments
Diflucan (fluconazole) is an azole drug that can only be purchased with a prescription from a gynecologist or other licensed healthcare provider. It can be taken as a single-dose oral medication for mild infections or as a single dose every three days for several doses for more severe infections. Many cases of vaginal candidiasis respond to single-dose therapy with fluconazole.
Oral prescription pills can only be used to treat yeast infections with guidance from a healthcare provider. Azole antifungals may interact with other medications, especially when taken orally. Certain people, such as pregnant women and people with kidney problems, may need to avoid azole antifungals like fluconazole.
| Prescription yeast infection treatments | |
|---|---|
| Diflucan (fluconazole) | Coupons |
| Terazol (terconazole) | Coupons |
| Gynazole-1 (butoconazole) | Coupons |
| Brexafemme (ibrexafungerp) | Coupons |
| Vivjoa (oteseconazole) | Coupons |
Some vaginal yeast infections don’t respond to treatment with usual antifungal agents like fluconazole. For resistant yeast infections, a healthcare provider may recommend other options such as boric acid inserted into the vagina.
While some prescription treatments are taken as a single dose, some treatments may require use for several days, a week, or even longer. For people with yeast infections that recur often, healthcare providers may recommend ongoing treatment—such as weekly doses of fluconazole, and/or taking Vivjoa (oteseconazole), which is a prescription antifungal medicine used for chronic or recurrent yeast infections.
RELATED: Monistat vs. Diflucan, Fluconazole side effects
How to get rid of a yeast infection at home
Some people may prefer home remedies to treat yeast infections. Although they may seem convenient, the scientific evidence for their use is lacking. Common alternative treatments for yeast infections include apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, tea tree oil, garlic, cranberry juice, plain yogurt, and probiotic supplements. Consult a healthcare provider before using a home remedy.
How long will a yeast infection last without treatment?
Yeast infections with mild itching or irritation may go away on their own within a few days. More serious yeast infections can take one to two weeks or longer to clear up and will often require a prescription medication. The severity and symptoms of the infection will determine the best course of action. However, if a vaginal yeast infection is left untreated, symptoms could worsen.
After a yeast infection resolves, it’s a good idea to take steps to prevent it from happening again. Ways to prevent a yeast infection include:
- Wiping from front to back after using the toilet
- Avoiding tight-fitting clothing
- Wearing breathable clothing, such as cotton fabrics
- Managing high blood sugar levels or diabetes
- Avoiding scented or irritating feminine products
- Avoiding douching
- Minimizing excessive sweating
- Changing out of wet or sweaty clothes as soon as possible
- Reducing stress when possible
When to see a doctor
Schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen despite using an appropriate treatment, such as an OTC antifungal cream. You may be experiencing a resistant or more serious yeast infection that requires a prescription medication to treat.
In some cases, the infection may not be caused by yeast, but by bacteria or other microbes. Other vaginal infections or medical conditions can cause similar symptoms of a yeast infection, such as vaginal itching or a burning sensation. These conditions include bacterial vaginosis, allergic reactions, sexually transmitted infections (such as trichomoniasis), and certain skin conditions, such as lichen sclerosis or eczema. A healthcare provider can evaluate your symptoms and perform tests to identify what is causing the problem.
You may need a healthcare provider’s assessment and diagnosis if:
- You experience pelvic pain or a fever
- It is your first yeast infection
- You have recurring infections
- You are pregnant
- You have a weakened immune system
- You are concerned about STIs (sexually transmitted infections)
During a diagnosis, a healthcare provider may ask about your medical history, sexual activity, and medications you are currently taking. They may also perform a pelvic exam and take a sample of vaginal discharge to pinpoint the cause of your symptoms. After determining the cause of the infection, a healthcare provider can recommend an effective treatment plan tailored to your symptoms.
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- Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2021)
- Vaginitis, Cleveland Clinic (2024)
- Vivjoa, DailyMed (2024)
- Brexafemme, DailyMed (2024)