Antifungal drugs, which work by changing the permeability of the fungal cell membrane, are the most effective treatment option for VVC. Both oral and topical antifungal medications treat the symptoms of VVC, but topical antifungals are more effective at reducing Candida colonization and are also available without a prescription.[1]
The most widely used antifungal drugs are azoles, such as ketoconazole and fluconazole (both of which are available over the counter). Prescription antifungal drugs may be more effective for infections caused by species other than C. albicans.[1]