Hormones 2016

Thrush
It is very important to take the treatment as instructed and finish any course
of treatment even if the symptoms go away earlier.
Some antifungal products can weaken latex condoms. Polyurethane types
can be safely used. Ask the doctor, nurse or pharmacist for advice (fpa,
2014i).
The recommended treatment for thrush in men depends on which area of
the body is affected.
For thrush that doesn’t affect the penis, a type of anti-fungal cream called
topical imidazole is usually recommended.
Fluconazole is the first-choice treatment for thrush that affects the penis. It’s
also used as an alternative anti-fungal medication if your symptoms do not
improve within 14 days of using a topical imidazole (NHS, 2014n).
Topical imidazole
Topical imidazoles work by breaking down the membranes (walls) of the
fungi cells. Examples of topical imidazoles include -
• clotrimazole,
• econazole,
• ketoconazole,
• miconazole (NHS, 2014n).
Most of these are available from your pharmacist without a prescription.
Your pharmacist can advise which treatment is most suitable for you.
The most common side effect of a topical imidazole is a mild burning
sensation when you apply the cream.
In a few people, some topical imidazoles have caused more severe burning
and a serious skin irritation. If this happens, stop using the cream and
contact your GP for advice.
If your skin feels itchy, your GP may prescribe a corticosteroid cream as an
additional treatment. Corticosteroids reduce levels of inflammation within
the affected tissue. This should help to resolve the symptoms of itchiness
(NHS, 2014n).
Fluconazole
Fluconazole is usually taken as a tablet and is often available over the
counter without a prescription.
Fluconazole works by destroying some of the enzymes (a type of protein
that triggers useful chemical reactions inside the body) that fungi cells need
to survive and reproduce.
The most common side effects of fluconazole are -
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