Boric acid suppositories are a medication delivered into the vagina, containing boric acid. They are designed to dissolve within the vaginal canal to promote a balanced vaginal environment. These suppositories are for vaginal use only and must never be taken by mouth.
Primary Applications
Boric acid suppositories are often considered for managing recurrent vaginal yeast infections, also known as candidiasis. This treatment option is relevant when standard antifungal medications have not been effective or when infections frequently return. Boric acid can be effective against various Candida strains, including Candida albicans and the more treatment-resistant Candida glabrata. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests its use as a secondary treatment for these persistent cases.
Boric acid suppositories are also used off-label for recurrent bacterial vaginosis (BV). While research on its effectiveness for BV is less extensive, it is sometimes recommended with prescribed antibiotics, such as nitroimidazoles, to enhance treatment outcomes for recurring cases. Boric acid is not intended for pregnancy prevention or treating sexually transmitted infections.
How Boric Acid Works
Boric acid is a mild acid composed of boron, oxygen, and hydrogen. It influences the vaginal environment by helping to restore and maintain the natural acidic pH balance within the vagina. This acidic environment inhibits the overgrowth of certain microorganisms, including yeast and bacteria, which can disrupt vaginal health.
The compound possesses both antifungal and antiseptic properties. It interferes with the growth cycle of fungi like Candida, preventing excessive multiplication. For bacterial imbalances, boric acid may help by clearing away bacterial mucus, which can harbor disease-causing organisms that might be resistant to conventional antibiotic treatments. When used as a vaginal suppository, boric acid is not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream.
Important Usage and Safety Information
Boric acid suppositories are inserted vaginally, typically once daily, often at bedtime. Insertion can be done using a clean finger or an applicator, pushing the suppository as far as comfortably possible into the vagina. After insertion, remaining lying down for about 10 to 15 minutes can help it dissolve properly and prevent leakage. Wearing a panty liner is recommended to manage any watery discharge.
A common dosage involves a 600 mg suppository used daily for 7 to 14 days. For recurrent issues, a healthcare provider might recommend a maintenance regimen, such as two to three times per week for several months. Mild side effects can include a sensation of burning, itching, redness, or irritation in the vaginal area, along with increased watery vaginal discharge. Sexual intercourse should be avoided during treatment, as boric acid can cause irritation for a male partner and may compromise the integrity of condoms or diaphragms.
Boric acid suppositories are strictly for vaginal use and must never be swallowed, as oral ingestion can be highly toxic and potentially fatal. They should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to potential harm. Avoid using them if there are open sores, cuts, or wounds in the vaginal area. Boric acid is not a substitute for a medical diagnosis or a first-line treatment for vaginal infections. Consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist, worsen, or if new symptoms like fever, pelvic pain, or unusual bleeding develop.