The goal of any oral thrush treatment is to stop the rapid spread of the fungus, but the best approach may depend on your age, your overall health and the cause of the infection.
Healthy adults and children
If an adult patient is
diagnosed with a mild case of thrush, the doctor may prescribe an antifungal
mouthwash (nystatin) or lozenges (clotrimazole [Mycelex]) for short-term use.
Miconazole buccal (Oravig) is an antifungal medication that consists of a
tablet placed in the upper gum region and dissolved in the mouth to get rid of
thrush.
Infants and children
Infants, toddlers, and children with thrush
often do not require treatment. In children who have thrush for more than a few
weeks, a child's pediatrician may prescribe antifungal nystatin (Mycostatin,
Nilstat, Nystex) drops.
Adults with weak immune systems
For more severe cases of thrush or if
someone has other reasons for a weakened immune system, he or she may need
stronger systemic medications, such as fluconazole (Diflucan) or itraconazole
(Sporanox). These medications usually work better than ketoconazole (Nizoral).
For severe or resistant thrush, amphotericin B may be prescribed.
