How do you clean Monistat out of its reusable applicator?

If you are using a Monistat product that contains a reusable applicator, after you have inserted the medicine, pull the two pieces of the applicator apart and wash both with soap and warm water. Let the pieces air-dry, then put them back together. The applicator should be reused for one course of treatment, then discarded.

Monistat is one of several brand names for the drugs miconazole and tioconazole. Both drugs are from the class of antifungal medicines known as “azoles.”

Fungal infections can occur in many parts of the body, and there are several azole antifungal drugs available for treatment. The Monistat products containing miconazole or tioconazole are specifically made to treat fungal infections of the vaginal area.

These infections are sometimes referred to as vaginal yeast infections or vaginal candidiasis because they are frequently caused by various species of the fungus Candida. Vaginal yeast infections are common in women of reproductive age. Up to 75% of women will have at least one vaginal yeast infection during their lifetime.

The Monistat products come in several forms—as a cream, an ointment, a vaginal suppository, or an ovule (an oval-shaped suppository)—to be inserted directly into the vagina or spread on the skin around the opening to the vagina. They come in varying strengths, with the higher strengths requiring fewer days of treatment. Some of the products provide disposable applicators, while others contain a reusable applicator.

*Each is also available as a “combination pack” that includes a tube of 2% miconazole cream to be applied with the fingertips to the skin outside the vagina for itching or irritation.

All products are equally effective if used as directed. Product selection is based on personal preference. All forms of Monistat are made using an oil base, which can weaken latex condoms or diaphragms.