How to Treat Candidiasis

Candidiasis, also known as thrush, is an infection of any yeast of the Candida genus. It is an opportunistic infection that usually affects the mouth and this form of the infection is called Oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC). Candida is found in the mouths of 25 to 50 percent of the population and Candida albicans is responsible for 70 to 80 percent of the cases of candidiasis.

Instructions

• 1

  Use topical medications for milder forms of candidiasis. Systemic therapy may be needed in severe cases, patients with suppressed immune systems and cases that cause painful swallowing. A prolonged condition of immunosuppression may require suppressive therapy.

• 2

  Take one 300,000 unit pastille or lozenge of nystatin once daily for 7 to 14 days. Nystatin also may be taken in a liquid form (500,000 units per dose) by swish and swallow.

• 3

  Suck on one troche of clotrimazole 5 times daily for 7 to 14 days.

• 4

  Take 100 mg of fluconazole once daily for 7 to 14 days. A dosage of 200 mg is recommended for severe cases and immunosupressed patients. High doses of up 800 mg are used in difficult cases.

• 5

  Take a 200 mg capsule of itraconazole once per day with food for 2 to 4 weeks. Itraconazole may also be taken in solution by swish and swallow for 7 to 14 days.