A yeast infection suppository is a solid medication designed for insertion into the vagina. Its primary purpose is to deliver antifungal medication directly to the site of a yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis. These suppositories are formulated to release their active ingredients locally, targeting the overgrowth of Candida fungi that cause the infection.
Factors Influencing Dissolution Time
The time it takes for a vaginal suppository to dissolve can vary, generally ranging from 10 to 30 minutes, though some may take longer. This dissolution process is influenced by several factors, including the suppository’s base type, body temperature, and specific formulation.
Different types of suppository bases affect how rapidly the medication is released. Oil-based or fatty bases, such as cocoa butter or semi-synthetic fatty acid glycerides, melt at body temperature, within 3 to 7 minutes, to release the drug. Water-soluble bases, like polyethylene glycols (PEGs) or glycerin-gelatin, dissolve in the vaginal fluids. These water-soluble suppositories dissolve more slowly, over 30 to 40 minutes, and their dissolution rate can be influenced by the amount and composition of vaginal secretions.
Body temperature plays a significant role, particularly for oil-based suppositories, as the warmth of the body facilitates their melting. For water-soluble bases, the presence and dynamics of vaginal fluids are more impactful; increased vaginal moisture and thinner discharge can promote faster dissolution. The specific active ingredients and other components within the suppository’s formulation can also influence its dissolution rate.
What to Expect After Insertion
After a yeast infection suppository has dissolved, the body begins to absorb the medication locally. It is common to experience some discharge as the melted suppository base exits the body. This discharge can appear waxy, oily, or watery, and its presence is a normal part of the treatment process, distinct from the infection itself.
Symptom relief, such as a reduction in itching and burning, may not be immediate. While some individuals might start feeling better within 24 hours of the first dose, it can take up to three days to notice significant improvement. Complete symptom resolution requires a full seven days or even longer, depending on the severity of the infection and the specific medication used. It is important to continue the full course of treatment as directed, even if symptoms begin to improve earlier, to ensure the infection is completely cleared.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Consult a healthcare professional if the suppository does not appear to dissolve or is expelled largely intact. This could indicate an issue with the product or its application.
Contact a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or do not improve within the expected timeframe, typically after a few days of treatment. New or severe irritation, pain, or signs of an allergic reaction, such as a rash, also warrant medical attention. If you experience frequent yeast infections, defined as four or more in a year, seek professional guidance to identify any underlying causes and discuss appropriate long-term management strategies.