Candidiasis

3 medicines

Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by Candida yeast, affecting the mouth, genitals, skin folds or nails. It is treated with azole antifungals matched to the site of infection.

Diflucan

Fluconazole

50/100/150/200mg

Diflucan is a antifungals medication containing Fluconazole, available as 50/100/150/200mg tablets.

from $1.16 / tablet View

Lomexin Cream

Fenticonazole

30g

Lomexin Cream is a antifungals medication containing Fenticonazole, available as 30g tubes.

from $25.50 / tube View

Sporanox

Itraconazole

100mg

Sporanox is a antifungals medication containing Itraconazole, available as 100mg tablets.

from $5.00 / tablet View

Key facts

  • Candidiasis is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast, most often Candida albicans; it can appear on the skin, in the mouth (thrush), on the genitals, or in the nails.
  • Candida lives harmlessly on most people's skin and mucous membranes; it causes problems when antibiotics reduce competing bacteria, blood sugar is high, skin stays moist for long periods, or immunity is weakened.
  • Most infections respond well to azole antifungals: fluconazole for vaginal and oral infections, itraconazole for nail or resistant cases, and fenticonazole as a topical option for localised skin and vaginal infections.
  • Recurring infections need a look at the underlying cause; candidiasis spreading to the oesophagus or bloodstream needs prompt medical assessment.

Where and why it flares

Candida lives harmlessly on most people's skin and mucous membranes. It causes problems when local conditions shift in its favour: antibiotics that reduce competing bacteria, high blood sugar, prolonged moisture on the skin, or a weakened immune system. Vaginal candidiasis is common in women; oral thrush often affects infants, denture wearers, and people using inhaled corticosteroids; skin-fold infections are frequent in warm weather or after long periods in wet clothing.

Antifungal treatment options

Most candidiasis infections respond well to azole antifungals. Topical or oral fluconazole is widely used for vaginal and oral infections. Itraconazole covers a broader fungal spectrum and is often chosen for nail or resistant cases. Fenticonazole is available as a topical formulation suited to localised skin and vaginal infections. All three belong to the antifungals category; some topical options also appear under skin care.

When to get checked

Recurring infections warrant a closer look at the underlying cause rather than repeated treatment alone. Persistent or spreading candidiasis, particularly in the oesophagus or bloodstream, needs prompt medical assessment.

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.