Thrush (Oral Candidiasis)
Table of Contents
What is the treatment for thrush?
Treatment of thrush depends on the cause and severity of the infection.
If thrush is caused by something reversible, such as taking antibiotics, smoking, ill-fitting dentures, or poorly controlled diabetes, these factors must be corrected as part of the treatment.
Infants, toddlers, and children with thrush often do not require treatment. In cases that last more than a few weeks, a child's pediatrician may prescribe antifungal nystatin (Mycostatin, Nilstat, Nystex) drops.
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.
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). For severe or resistant thrush, amphotericin B may be prescribed.