OTC Yeast Infection Treatment: 8 of the Best Creams, Pills, and More

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The best yeast infection treatments are often available over-the-counter (OTC). Here, we look at the best options including creams, pills, and vaginal suppositories.
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“Most topical over-the-counter treatments (azols like monistat and Terazol) are equally effective and use of 1, 3 or 7 day therapy should be based on cost, availability and patient preference.” — Valinda Nwadike MD, MPH
A quick look at 8 of the best OTC yeast infection treatment options
Best pill: Wisp Fluconazole | Skip to review
Wisp Fluconazole
Skip to review
Best preventive treatment: Uqora Promote | Skip to review
Uqora Promote
Skip to review
Best for balancing the vaginal microbiome: Bonafide Clairevee | Skip to review
Bonafide Clairevee
Skip to review
Best range of treatments: Monistat | Skip to review
Monistat
Skip to review
For rapid treatment: FemiClear Yeast Infection 2-Day Treatment | Skip to review
FemiClear Yeast Infection 2-Day Treatment
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Best preventive suppository: Love Wellness The Killer | Skip to review
Love Wellness The Killer
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Best budget treatment: CVS Health Miconazole 7-Day Vaginal Treatment | Skip to review
CVS Health Miconazole 7-Day Vaginal Treatment
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Best subscription option: Sesame Care | Skip to review
Sesame Care
Skip to review
Our top picks for yeast infection treatment
We considered many prescription and OTC yeast infection treatments before choosing our favorites. All of our top picks have scientific evidence of their effectiveness.
However, do not use these as a substitute for medication. People should contact a doctor immediately if these remedies do not relieve symptoms.
Yeast infection medication is usually safe to take with minimal side effects. However, it is important to keep in contact with a healthcare professional to ensure the medication effectively treats Candida overgrowth and to monitor any potential side effects.
Other general advice includes:
Dosage: Take the entire course of medication to clear an infection. For example, with a 7-day suppository, a person inserts suppositories daily for the full 7 days, even if symptoms begin to clear before the 7-day period ends.
Birth control: The oils in certain suppositories and creams can interfere with barrier birth control methods. They can weaken the materials in condoms, making them less effective. When using these yeast infection treatments, a person needs to use a different form of birth control or abstain from sex during the duration of the treatment if they would typically use a condom.
birth control
condoms
Pregnancy: Pregnant people should always consult a doctor before using any prescription or nonprescription medication to treat an infection.
Before starting treatment, people should contact a qualified healthcare professional, such as a primary care doctor, for a diagnosis.
Knowing exactly which infection a person has ensures they get the appropriate treatment and avoids creating fungus resistant to future treatments.

Wisp Diflucan, Generic Fluconazole (Yeast Antifungals)

Type: pill
Active ingredient: fluconazole
Number of doses: two
Delivery time: 3 to 5 days, or pick up at your local pharmacy
Prescription needed: yes

*Price may vary.

Fluconazole is a generic version of the prescription pill Diflucan, which people can take to treat yeast infections.
Fluconazole

People need to take a single pill first. If symptoms do not improve after 2 days, they can take a second pill.

Online pharmacies, such as Wisp, offer quick delivery of fluconazole. Wisp can also provide same-day or rushed prescriptions to a person’s local pharmacy.
Wisp
A one-time purchase costs $65, while a quarterly subscription costs $15 a month.

Read our review of Wisp.
review of Wisp

Wisp offers subscriptions for people who regularly have yeast infections. The pharmacy accepts FSA and HSA cards as payment.

This product may be most suitable for people who regularly develop yeast infections or when creams have not worked.

available for same-day pick up from a local pharmacy
FSA- and HSA-eligible
subscription service available
one-time purchases are expensive
Wisp does not accept insurance
available for same-day pick up from a local pharmacy
FSA- and HSA-eligible
subscription service available
one-time purchases are expensive
Wisp does not accept insurance
Accepts insurance: no, but accepts HSA/FSA
Location availability: available in the United States (Alaska and Hawaii included)
Shipping: free shipping
Accepts insurance: no, but accepts HSA/FSA
Location availability: available in the United States (Alaska and Hawaii included)
Shipping: free shipping

Uqora Promote Capsules

Form: capsules
Count: 30
Number of servings: 30
Dose: 1 capsule per day
Active ingredients:
$30.00 AT UQORA
*Price may vary.

The makers of Uqora Promote say the product promotes vaginal health rather than specifically targeting yeast infections.

It contains Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus), Lactobacillus rhamnosus (L. rhamnosus), and Lactobacillus reuteri, which the company claims can help balance vaginal bacteria.
Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus)

Some research suggests Lactobacilli, such as L. acidophilus and L. rhamnosus, show promise in preventing vaginal infections.
research

The company recommends taking this supplement daily with a glass of water.

Uqora Promote may be suitable as a preventive treatment for people who regularly get yeast infections. It is vegan-friendly and gluten-free, meaning it may also suit people following certain diets.
vegan
gluten-free

Read our review of Uqora.
review of Uqora
BBB reviews
On BBB, the average review rating is 1.5 out of 5. Customers complain about difficulty canceling subscriptions.
BBB

useful as a preventive treatment
suitable for vegans
gluten-free
free shipping
subscription is possible, making it cheaper by 15%
targets vaginal health instead of treating yeast infections specifically
higher cost than other options
does not have FDA approval
useful as a preventive treatment
suitable for vegans
gluten-free
free shipping
subscription is possible, making it cheaper by 15%
targets vaginal health instead of treating yeast infections specifically
higher cost than other options
does not have FDA approval
Returns: returns within 30 days
Returns: returns within 30 days
Bonafide Clairvee

Type:
Main ingredient:
Number of doses:
Prescription needed: no
Accepts insurance: no
Location availability: available in the United States (Alaska and Hawaii included)
$55.00 AT BONAFIDE
*Price may vary.

Bonafide claims that one daily Clairvee pill over 15 days can reduce:
vaginal odor
vaginal itching
vaginal discharge

A single box of Clairvee costs $55 and each box contains 15 pills. Alternatively, the monthly plan costs $39 a month and the 3-month plan costs $35 a month.

Bonafide claims that Clairvee keeps the vaginal microbiome balanced month after month. This supports the vagina’s natural defenses and helps to prevent symptoms from developing.

Clairvee uses live probiotic strains specific to the vaginal flora to target the cause of a person’s symptoms.

The brand states that this product will suit people experiencing hormonal fluctuations associated with perimenopause or menopause. It may also help people who regularly experience vaginal discomfort, itching, or discharge.

A person cannot use their insurance to cover the cost of Bonafide’s products. However, if a person has a HSA or FSA card, they should check with their insurance provider as to whether it can cover part or all of the cost.

BBB reviews

On BBB, the average review rating is 1.2 out of 5. However, there are just 5 reviews, meaning this set of reviews does not reflect the experiences of a wide range of people. These reviews feature complaints about problems with automatic shipping.
BBB

it can help keep the vaginal microbiome balanced for a month
it may help reduce itching and discomfort
the brand says it can be suitable during the peri- and postmenopause period
it is a more expensive option
there are very few reviews about the product or brand online
it can help keep the vaginal microbiome balanced for a month
it may help reduce itching and discomfort
the brand says it can be suitable during the peri- and postmenopause period
it is a more expensive option
there are very few reviews about the product or brand online
Delivery time: 2–3 days
Returns: $7 return fee
Shipping: free shipping
Delivery time: 2–3 days
Returns: $7 return fee
Shipping: free shipping
Monistat 3-Dose Yeast Infection Treatment Cream

Type: cream
Active ingredient: miconazole
Number of doses: three
Delivery time: calculated at checkout
Prescription needed: no
$14.27 AT WALMART
*Price may vary.

Monistat is available in several U.S. pharmacies and retail stores, including Walmart. It provides treatment options that include 1, 3, and 7 days’ worth of doses.

This product comes as internal suppositories and external creams with applicators that help people place the yeast infection treatment in the right area. Some packs include additional topical itch medications to help ease symptoms.

Each applicator contains 200 milligrams (mg) of miconazole nitrate, a medication that treats fungal infections.
miconazole nitrate

This product is most suited to people who currently have a yeast infection and would like to try multiple methods to treat it. However, the 1-day dose can be too potent for some people, adding to the irritation of the vulva. In these cases, the 3- or 7-day options may be more suitable.
irritation of the vulva

Read our review of Monistat.
review of Monistat

readily available in retail stores
various treatment options available in one pack
FSA- and HSA-eligible
affordable price
reviews mention burning, stinging, or itching sensations
may cause heavy discharge
readily available in retail stores
various treatment options available in one pack
FSA- and HSA-eligible
affordable price
reviews mention burning, stinging, or itching sensations
may cause heavy discharge
Accepts insurance: FSA/HSA only
Location availability: available in the United States (Alaska and Hawaii included)
Returns: free returns within 90 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Accepts insurance: FSA/HSA only
Location availability: available in the United States (Alaska and Hawaii included)
Returns: free returns within 90 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
FemiClear Yeast Infection Treatment Ointment

Type: ointment
Active ingredient: calendula
Number of doses: two
Delivery time: calculated at checkout
Prescription needed: no
$14.96 AT WALMART
*Price may vary.

FemiClear’s 2-day yeast infection treatment includes two suppositories a person inserts into their vagina and an external anti-itch ointment for symptom relief.

The product contains calendula, tea tree oil, olive extract, beeswax, and olive oil to combat itching and discomfort.
tea tree oil
olive oil

The company recommends using this yeast infection treatment before bed or wearing a panty liner to ensure that it does not leak.

The FDA classes this product as an unapproved homeopathic treatment. It states it has not tested it for safety or efficacy. The FDA writes that it is not aware of scientific research that supports the effectiveness of homeopathic remedies.
FDA classes

This may best suit individuals who currently have a yeast infection and prefer to use organic ingredients. However, it is unsuitable for vegans because it contains beeswax.

Read our review of FemiClear.
review of FemiClear

organic ingredients
affordable price
treatment lasts 2 days
unsuitable for vegans
does not have FDA approval
suppository may not suit some people
organic ingredients
affordable price
treatment lasts 2 days
unsuitable for vegans
does not have FDA approval
suppository may not suit some people
Accepts insurance: no
Location availability: available in the United States (Alaska and Hawaii included)
Returns: free returns within 90 days
Accepts insurance: no
Location availability: available in the United States (Alaska and Hawaii included)
Returns: free returns within 90 days

Love Wellness The Killer Tablets

Type: suppository
Main ingredient: boric acid
Number of doses: 14
Delivery time: calculated at checkout
Prescription needed: no
$17.99 AT LOVE WELLNESS
*Price may vary.

The Killer by Love Wellness aims to prevent yeast infections from developing and claims to keep vaginal bacteria healthy.

The capsule contains boric acid, which may be effective in treating recurrent yeast infections that have not responded to antifungal treatments.
may be effective

Learn more about using boric acid to treat yeast infections.
using boric acid to treat yeast infections

The brand recommends inserting this vaginal suppository once a day before bed for up to 14 days, as necessary. The brand also recommends the best times to use The Killer might be after sex, after a period, or when a person is experiencing symptoms of a pH imbalance.

The FDA classes this product as an unapproved homeopathic treatment. It states it has not tested it for safety or efficacy. The FDA writes it is not aware of scientific research that supports the effectiveness of homeopathic remedies.
FDA classes

The Killer is suitable for anyone who may be prone to vaginal yeast infections. Love Wellness does not recommend a person to have sexual intercourse while using this product.

affordable
subscription service is possible, saving 15%
gluten- and dairy-free
does not have FDA approval
a person cannot have sexual intercourse during the treatment
shipping is not free unless customers spend over $35
unsuitable for vegans
affordable
subscription service is possible, saving 15%
gluten- and dairy-free
does not have FDA approval
a person cannot have sexual intercourse during the treatment
shipping is not free unless customers spend over $35
unsuitable for vegans
Accepts insurance: no
Location availability: available in the United States (Alaska and Hawaii included)
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Women-Founded
Accepts insurance: no
Location availability: available in the United States (Alaska and Hawaii included)
Returns: full refund within 30 days
Shipping: shipping calculated at checkout
Women-Founded
CVS Health Miconazole Vaginal Treatment Cream

Type: cream
Main ingredient: miconazole
Number of doses: seven
Delivery time: 1–3 days, or pickup at your local store
$10.99 AT CVS HEALTH
*Price may vary.

This CVS Health treatment comes with seven doses of disposable internal applicators and external cream.

Each applicator contains 100 mg of miconazole nitrate. The manufacturer recommends people insert an applicator before going to bed. People dispose of the applicator immediately after use.

The treatment is available both in-store and online. It may best suit individuals who would prefer a product that works while they sleep. However, a person should not use this if a doctor has not yet given them a diagnosis of a yeast infection.
BBB reviews
On BBB, the average review rating is 1.11 out of 5. Customers complain about problems using gift cards, but others found the service effective for deals on products.
BBB

affordable
uses both internal applicators and external cream
available to purchase in-store and online
works while a person sleeps
may cause burning and itching sensations
a person cannot use tampons while using this product
takes longer than other treatment options
cannot have sex while using this product
affordable
uses both internal applicators and external cream
available to purchase in-store and online
works while a person sleeps
may cause burning and itching sensations
a person cannot use tampons while using this product
takes longer than other treatment options
cannot have sex while using this product
Prescription needed: no
Accepts insurance: FSA/HSA only
Location availability: available in the United States (Alaska and Hawaii included)
Prescription needed: no
Accepts insurance: FSA/HSA only
Location availability: available in the United States (Alaska and Hawaii included)

Sesame Care Telehealth

Specialties: comprehensive, mental health, dental (symptom assessment), skin care, sexual health, and others
Prescriptions: yes
Service delivery: video
Insurance coverage: no
Subscription required: no
GET STARTED WITH SESAME CARE

Sesame Care offers same-day online doctor visits for people with yeast infections, as well as many other health and medical issues.

A person can also book online to request an online doctor prescription or refill for yeast infection treatments.

Sesame offers a choice of physicians that a person can select to meet with online. Prices for a same-day video appointment start from $29 for members.

Joining Sesame Plus for $10.99 a month or $99 a year allows a person to save $10 on all telehealth and primary care visits and provides one free lab test worth $65 each year.

If a Sesame physician determines that a person needs a prescription for a yeast infection, Sesame sends the prescription directly to the person’s pharmacy for collection the same day.

A person cannot combine Sesame Membership with their insurance or Medicare.

BBB reviews

On BBB, the average review rating is 3.95 out of 5. Customers left positive reviews about the level of patient care, but others complained about issues with refilling prescriptions.
BBB

people can get same-day appointments
the subscription is affordable
Sesame Care can send prescriptions to local pharmacies the same day
some customers had issues refilling their prescriptions with this service
people cannot get a physical examination online
people can get same-day appointments
the subscription is affordable
Sesame Care can send prescriptions to local pharmacies the same day
some customers had issues refilling their prescriptions with this service
people cannot get a physical examination online
Comparison of the best yeast infection treatment options
The table below compares each of the products for price, ingredients, and more.
Wisp
Uqora
Bonafide
Monistat
FemiClear
Love Wellness
CVS Health
Sesame Care
Learn more about other at-home and holistic yeast infection treatment options.
at-home and holistic yeast infection treatment options
How we chose the best OTC yeast infection treatment
We selected these products based on criteria we think are good indicators of safety, quality, and transparency.
As a part of our vetting process, we consider:
the product’s composition, ingredients, and overall quality
any third-party certifications
the company’s reputation and business practices
any lab test results
marketing claims
Read more about how we vet products and brands.
how we vet products and brands
Symptoms of yeast infections
Vaginal yeast infection symptoms are often mild.
often
Signs that a person has a yeast infection can include:
itching or soreness around the vagina
pain during sexual intercourse
pain or discomfort when urinating
abnormal discharge from the vagina
If a person develops a severe infection, they may experience:
redness
swelling
cracks in the vaginal wall
A person should contact a doctor if they experience any of these symptoms.
What causes yeast infections?
A yeast infection develops from an overgrowth of Candida, most commonly Candida albicans. Experts estimate around 70% of females will experience a Candida yeast infection at some point, and 8% will have recurrent infections.
Experts estimate
The body can usually handle Candida without the fungus causing any problems. However, people with chronic conditions, such as diabetes and HIV, as well as people who have obesity or take antibiotics, are more likely to experience Candida overgrowth.
When the Candida fungus penetrates the mucosal lining of the vagina, it causes inflammation. This inflammation then leads to yeast infection symptoms such as thick discharge, itchiness, and swelling.
Doctors typically recommend OTC antifungal medications to treat a vaginal yeast infection.
typically
antifungal medications
Treatments may come as one single dose or a daily dose over several days. A person can read the dosing instructions carefully to ensure they use the correct dosage.
Some of the products in this article are classed as homeopathic treatments. There are no Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved homeopathic products. This means any product sold in the United States and marketed as homeopathic is not FDA approved, and the FDA has not tested it for safety or effectiveness.
no Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved
Frequently asked questions about yeast infection treatment
Monistat is a popular 3-day OTC yeast infection treatment option. There are also several other 3-day OTC yeast infection treatments that include miconazole, an ingredient that can help reduce yeast infection symptoms quickly.
Monistat is a popular 3-day OTC yeast infection treatment option. There are also several other 3-day OTC yeast infection treatments that include miconazole, an ingredient that can help reduce yeast infection symptoms quickly.
According to Monistat, all of its miconazole yeast infection treatments are just as effective as each other, regardless of whether a person buys the 1-, 3-, or 7-day treatment.
According to Monistat, all of its miconazole yeast infection treatments are just as effective as each other, regardless of whether a person buys the 1-, 3-, or 7-day treatment.
The fastest way to eliminate a yeast infection is to use an antifungal medication on the skin or inside the vagina. People can also get oral pill treatments for yeast infections.
The fastest way to eliminate a yeast infection is to use an antifungal medication on the skin or inside the vagina. People can also get oral pill treatments for yeast infections.
A mild yeast infection may go away by itself. However, this is unlikely.
People can only effectively treat fungus overgrowth with prescription antifungals or certain OTC treatments, such as suppositories containing boric acid.
A mild yeast infection may go away by itself. However, this is unlikely.
People can only effectively treat fungus overgrowth with prescription antifungals or certain OTC treatments, such as suppositories containing boric acid.
A person may be able to get rid of a yeast infection without going to a doctor by trying over-the-counter products or alternative therapies. 
Some treatments people try at home include over-the-counter antifungal treatments, boric acid, tea tree oil, probiotic supplements, natural yogurt, coconut oil, garlic, and oregano oil. 
try
However, it is important to exercise caution when trying at-home treatments or alternative therapies. People should always speak with a doctor before trying these remedies.
A person may be able to get rid of a yeast infection without going to a doctor by trying over-the-counter products or alternative therapies. 
Some treatments people try at home include over-the-counter antifungal treatments, boric acid, tea tree oil, probiotic supplements, natural yogurt, coconut oil, garlic, and oregano oil. 
try
However, it is important to exercise caution when trying at-home treatments or alternative therapies. People should always speak with a doctor before trying these remedies.
Summary
Yeast infections are often mild. A person can typically treat them using OTC medications. Medications come in different forms and doses, so it is important to follow the instructions on the package.
A person should not self-diagnose a yeast infection. Many symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses and conditions.
Once a doctor diagnoses the infection and a person treats it, they should notice symptom improvement.