MICONAZOLE (20MG/ML ORAL GEL)

Miconazole is an imidazole anti-fungal. It acts by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, a constituent of the fungal cell membrane, resulting in disruption of the cell. It is licensed for OTC treatment of infants from age four months, as well as for children and adults.

Dosage and administration

For infants from four to 24 months, 1.25ml administered in small amounts with a clean finger to the affected areas, four times daily. Care should be taken to avoid application to the back of the throat to avoid the possibility of choking.

For adults and children over two years, 2.5ml applied four times a day. The gel should be retained in the mouth for as long as possible before swallowing. Treatment should continue for at least one week after all signs of infection have disappeared.

Interactions and cautions

Miconazole gel is absorbed from the oral mucosa and at least part of a dose will be swallowed and absorbed systemically. Miconazole potentiates the activity of anticoagulants, antiepileptics and hypoglycaemic drugs and pharmacists should consult with the patient’s doctor if they are receiving any of the above drugs.

In animal studies, miconazole has been shown to be fetotoxic, although not teratogenic. The oral gel should not be supplied to pregnant women without consultation with the patient’s doctor.

CHLORHEXIDINE
Dosage and administration as for gingivitis (see below). Usage should continue for 48 hours after all lesions have cleared.