Miconazole

Description

Miconazole is an antifungal medicine used to treat various fungal infections of

the skin, nails, and intimate areas by disrupting the fungal cell membrane and inhibiting fungal growth. Before and after applying it, wash your hands and keep the affected area clean and dry to help the treatment work better. Avoid getting the medicine in your eyes, and use it exactly as your doctor has advised for the full recommended duration. Apply it regularly to get the best results, and if you notice irritation, worsening of symptoms, or any unusual reaction after use, contact your doctor or visit a nearby clinic.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses

Miconazole is an antifungal medicine used to treat fungal infections of the skin, nails, and vagina. It helps by damaging the fungal cell membrane, preventing the fungus from growing and clearing the ...

Contraindications

When should one not use Miconazole

If you are allergic to Miconazole.

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Skin burning sensation
Reddening of skin
Application site reactions such as irritation, burning, redness, itching and warmth.
Blister on skin
Swelling of face, toes

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Miconazole during pregnancy?

Miconazole should be used with caution during pregnancy because only a very small amount, if any, is absorbed into the body, but the safety data is limited. It should be taken only under the supervision of your doctor, who will decide if the benefits outweigh the risks. Always consult your doctor before using this medicine.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Miconazole while breastfeeding?

Miconazole should also be used cautiously while breastfeeding. It should not be applied to the breast area, on large areas of skin, or for long durations, as this may increase the chance of the baby coming into contact with the medicine. Use it only under medical supervision, and always consult your doctor before using this medicine.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Miconazole?

Miconazole does not affect driving ability.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Miconazole?

It is safe to drink alcohol while taking Miconazole, as it does not interact with alcohol. Talk to your doctor if you have a habit of consuming it regularly.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You are on any anti-clot or blood thinner medicine like warfarin.
You experience an allergic reaction.
You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
You or your child has accidentally swallowed the medicine.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Miconazole works by blocking the production of ergosterol, an essential component of the fungal cell membrane. Without ergosterol, the membrane becomes weak and leaky, causing the fungus to die and th...

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Miconazole may increase the effect of blood thinners like warfarin, which can raise the risk of bleeding.
Miconazole can interact with oral diabetes medicines, possibly lowering blood sugar more than expected.
Miconazole may increase the levels or effects of medicines broken down by the liver, such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, some anti-anxiety or sedative medicines, and certain cholesterol-lowering drugs.
Miconazole can interact with immunosuppressants such as ciclosporin or tacrolimus, increasing their levels in the body.
Miconazole may interfere with some antihistamines and increase the chance of side effects.
Always tell your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are taking to avoid harmful interactions.

Dosage

Overdose

If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest hospital.

Missed a Dose

If you missed a dose of the medicine, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double ...

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Ravindra Ghongade

B. Pharm

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Nikita Toshi

BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is Miconazole used for?

A: Miconazole is used to treat fungal infections of the skin, nails, and private areas. It works by killing the fungus and stopping its growth.

Q: How does Miconazole work?

It damages the protective layer of the fungus, which weakens and destroys it, helping the infection clear up.

Q: Are there any side effects of Miconazole?

Some people may experience mild burning, redness, irritation, or itching at the application site. If symptoms worsen, contact your doctor.

References

EMA. SmPC. Miconazole nitrate. [Accessed 08 Dec 2025] (online)

Last Updated on: 09 Dec 2025 | 01:04 AM (IST)

Share This With Your Friends

Recent articles

See All

Disclaimer

The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.