References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
Diflucan is the brand name for fluconazole, an antifungal medication commonly used to treat thrush (candidiasis). It works by killing the Candida yeast that causes the infection. A single 150mg capsule is the standard treatment for uncomplicated vaginal thrush. It’s available from pharmacies without prescription for mild cases.
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Uses
| Condition | Dose |
|---|---|
| Vaginal thrush | Single 150mg capsule |
| Penile thrush | 150mg capsule (sometimes with cream) |
| Oral thrush | 50-100mg daily for 7-14 days |
| Recurrent thrush | Weekly or monthly doses |
How It Works
- Fluconazole disrupts the yeast cell membrane
- Kills Candida fungi
- Works systemically (throughout the body)
- Single dose often sufficient
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhoea
- Rarely: liver effects or allergic reaction
When to See a Doctor Instead
- First-ever episode (confirm diagnosis)
- Pregnancy
- Frequent recurrence (more than 4/year)
- Symptoms not improving
- Diabetes or immune suppression
Read more: What is thrush? | Thrush or STI? | Yeast infection smell
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy it without prescription?
Yes for uncomplicated vaginal thrush in pharmacies.
How quickly does it work?
Usually within 1-3 days.
Can men take fluconazole?
Yes — for penile thrush.
Related reading
- Using Antibiotics to Prevent STIs: DoxyPEP Explained
- Azithromycin: Uses in Sexual Health
- Best Antibiotics for STIs: A Practical Guide
- Ciprofloxacin for STIs: Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects
- Clindamycin: Uses in Sexual Health
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
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