The active ingredient in Monistat is miconazole nitrate [1].
What is Miconazole Nitrate Used For?
Miconazole nitrate is an antifungal medication. It is primarily used to treat vaginal yeast infections caused by Candida species [1]. It works by stopping the growth of fungi [1].
How Does Miconazole Nitrate Work?
Miconazole nitrate functions by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, a vital component of fungal cell membranes. This disruption leads to increased cell membrane permeability and ultimately cell death [2].
What Other Monistat Products Exist?
Beyond vaginal creams, Monistat also offers products for other fungal infections. These include treatments for athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm, which also utilize miconazole nitrate as the active ingredient [3]. Some Monistat products may also contain other active ingredients for additional symptom relief, such as itching or burning [4].
When Does Miconazole Nitrate Go Off Patent?
Miconazole nitrate has been available for many years, and its primary patents have long expired. This means that generic versions of miconazole nitrate treatments are widely available [5].
Who Makes Monistat?
Monistat is a brand of vaginal antifungal medications manufactured by Insight Pharmaceuticals [6].