Butoconazole belongs to the family of medications known as antifungals. It is used to treat vaginal yeast infections. It works by stopping the growth of the fungus responsible for the infection.

This medication may be available under multiple brand names and/or in several different forms. Any specific brand name of this medication may not be available in all of the forms or approved for all of the conditions discussed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are being given this medication, speak to your doctor.

Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to use this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

The usual recommended dose is one applicator of cream inserted into the vagina as a single dose. The single dose of butoconazole can be used at any time during the day. The applicator is already filled with cream.

To use the medication, simply extend the plunger by pulling back on the ring, insert the applicator into the vagina (in the way you would insert a tampon), and then push on the plunger to release the cream. Do not take the medication by mouth. Wash your hands after using the applicator, and avoid getting any of the cream in your eyes. If eye contact occurs, flush the eye out with plenty of water and consult your doctor.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is very important to use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to butoconazole or any ingredients of the medication.

Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent. The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.

The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

• pelvic or abdominal pain or cramping.
• vulvar or vaginal burning, itching, soreness, and swelling

Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.

Condition does not improve: Check with your doctor if your condition does not improve after treatment with butoconazole or if symptoms return within 2 months. A lack of improvement or a worsening of symptoms may mean that the infection is not fungal or that another infection has developed.

Condoms, diaphragms, and tampons: Some of the ingredients of this medication may interact with certain rubber products and can cause the latex in condoms and diaphragms to break down. For this reason, avoid using condoms or diaphragms for 3 days after treatment with butoconazole, as they may not be effective in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during this time. Avoid using tampons if you are using butoconazole during your period – use feminine pads instead.

Medical conditions: If you have diabetes or are HIV-positive, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Pregnancy: This medication should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor.

Breast-feeding: It is not known if butoconazole passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking this medication, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of using this medication have not been established for children.

Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications that you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:

• stop taking one of the medications,
• change one of the medications to another,
• change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
• leave everything as is.

An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.