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Vaginal antibacterials (Into the vagina)

Treats vaginal infection caused by bacteria.

Brand Name(s):

Azo Boric Acid, Fem pH, MetroGel-Vaginal, Nuvessa, Relagard, Summer's Eve Douche, TopCare Feminine Douche, Trimo-San, Vandazole, vH Essentials Boric Acid Plus

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to an antibacterial such as clindamycin (Cleocin®), lincomycin (Lincocin®), or metronidazole (MetroGel®). You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an intestinal disorder such as ulcerative colitis, or colitis from using antibiotics.

How to Use This Medicine:

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
  • This medicine is to be used only in the vagina. Use at bedtime unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
  • Avoid getting this medicine in your eyes. If it does get in your eyes, rinse them thoroughly with cool water.
  • Wash the applicator with warm, soapy water after you use it. If the medicine comes with disposable applicators, use each applicator only once, and then throw it away.

If a dose is missed:

  • Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine applicator(s), containers and any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using cimetidine (Tagamet®), disulfiram (Antabuse®), lithium, or a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin®).
  • Tell your doctor if you are using medicine to treat a muscle disorder, such as ambenonium (Mytelase®), neostigmine (Prostigmin®), or pyridostigmine (Mestinon®).
  • Avoid using douches or other vaginal products unless your doctor tells you to.
  • Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Tell your doctor if you have any nerve disorders, liver disease, or a history of alcohol abuse.
  • Do not have sexual intercourse while you are using this medicine and for 3 days after your treatment ends.
  • This medicine can cause diarrhea. Call your doctor if the diarrhea becomes severe, does not stop, or is bloody. Do not take any medicine to stop diarrhea until you have talked to your doctor. Diarrhea can occur 2 months or more after you stop taking this medicine.
  • This medicine may leak out of your vagina during the day. You may wear a sanitary pad to protect your clothing, but do not use a tampon.
  • Keep using this medicine for the full time of treatment, even if your symptoms improve after the first few doses. Do not stop using the medicine if your menstrual period begins during your treatment time. Use sanitary pads rather than tampons.
  • Tell any doctor or dentist who treats you that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect certain medical test results.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
  • Diarrhea that may contain blood.
  • Menstrual-type pain.
  • Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands, arms, legs, or feet.
  • Problems with urination.
  • Seizure.
  • Unusual bleeding.
  • Vaginal pain.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Diarrhea or constipation.
  • Dry mouth.
  • Headache.
  • Mild skin rash or itching.
  • Mild vaginal burning or dryness.
  • Pain in your pelvic area.
  • Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain.
  • Vaginal itching or discharge.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 12/4/2023

 
 
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