Miconazole

What is Miconazole?

Miconazole is an antifungal cream used to treat angular cheilitis, an inflammatory condition where painful sores form at the corners of your mouth. This condition is often caused by saliva buildup, which can lead to a fungal or bacterial infection.

Although miconazole is FDA-approved for other fungal infections, it’s used off-label for angular cheilitis. This simply means that the patient package insert that comes with your medication won’t menton angular cheilitis under Uses. Your doctor, however, will only prescribe it for this condition if they deem it to be safe and appropriate for you to use.

You don’t always need to use medication for angular cheilitis because it can heal on its own. But treating it with miconazole can speed up the recovery process.

How does Miconazole work?

Miconazole works by stopping the fungus from making ergosterol, which is an important part of its cell membranes. Without ergosterol, the fungus cannot survive or reproduce, making it easier for your immune system to fight the infection, helping speed up the healing process.^[1]

How does Miconazole compare with Tioconazole?

Miconazole and Tioconazole are both the same type of antifungal medication. As a result, they both work in largely the same way (by inhibiting ergosterol production, which stops fungal cell wall growth).

While both are effective fungal treatments, they’re used to treat different conditions. Miconazole is used for many fungal conditions, including angular cheilitis, ringworm, and fungal nail infections, whereas Tioconazole commonly only comes as an ointment for vaginal yeast infections.

Is Miconazole safe for pregnant women?

It’s best to avoid miconazole during pregnancy as it can be absorbed through the skin and, in high doses, it can be toxic. But it’s typically safe in low doses and is unlikely to cause any birth defects. Generally, your doctor will only recommend using miconazole while pregnant if necessary.^[2]

What doses of Miconazole are there?

With Treated, Miconazole is only available in one strength: 2%. It’s generally applied twice daily for up to six weeks. After this period, it can be applied as needed if symptoms return.

How to use Miconazole

To use Miconazole:

1. Wash and dry the affected area. 
2. Apply a small amount of cream to the affected area. 
3. Wash your hands after application. 
4. Apply it twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. 

Avoid sharing your towels with other people, as the infection can be contagious. You should also limit the amount of skin products you use, as these can cause irritation and worsen your symptoms.