Thrush is a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans, the same type of yeast that causes vaginal and some skin and internal infections. When it affects the tongue and inner lining of the mouth it is given the name thrush. It is usually seen in infants, and older adults as well as others with a weakened immune system. But it can also be seen in otherwise healthy adults. The infection has a white appearance. In infants it can be distinguished from milk in that milk is easily removed from the tongue with a light touch. However if the white plaques on your tongue cannot be removed or if it does not respond to an antifungal treatment course then it could be a different cause (e.g. hairy leukoplakia).
Prescription Medications Used to Treat Thrush
- Diflucan (fluconazole) is taken by mouth in a dose of 200 mg the first day, followed by 100 mg each day for 2 weeks.
- Mycelex Troche (clotrimazole) is a lozenge that slowly dissolves in the mouth. The dose is 5 lozenges every day for 2 weeks.
- Nystop, Nyata (nystatin) liquid should be swished throughout the mouth for several minutes 4 times a day for as long as directed. Two lozenges should be dissolved in the mouth 4 to 5 times a day for 2 weeks.
- Sporanox (itraconazole) is reserved for patients who find other treatments ineffective, and for patients with AIDS. The liquid is taken in a dose of 100 mg twice a day or 200 mg once a day for one week.
- AmBisome, Fungizone (amphotericin B) is used in severe cases. The liquid should be swished and swallowed after every meal for 14 days.
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