What Is Terconazole? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Terconazole is a prescription antifungal medication used to treat vaginal yeast infections. It's been FDA-approved since December 1987 and is available as a generic medication under several brand names. Here's everything you need to know about what Terconazole is, how it works, how to use it, and what to do if you're having trouble finding it.

What Is Terconazole?

Terconazole is a triazole antifungal medication — meaning it belongs to the azole class of antifungals, which work by disrupting the fungal cell membrane. It is FDA-approved specifically for the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis, commonly called a vaginal yeast infection, in adult females.

Brand names include Terazol 3 (0.8% vaginal cream and 80 mg vaginal suppository, both 3-day regimens) and Terazol 7 (0.4% vaginal cream, 7-day regimen). It is also sold under the brand Zazole. All are available in generic form.

Unlike over-the-counter antifungals such as Monistat (miconazole) and Gyne-Lotrimin (clotrimazole), Terconazole requires a doctor's prescription. It is not a controlled substance, so any licensed prescriber can write for it.

What Is Terconazole Used For?

Terconazole is FDA-approved for one indication:

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC): Vaginal yeast infections caused by Candida species, most commonly Candida albicans.

It is typically prescribed when:

OTC treatments like Monistat or Gyne-Lotrimin haven't worked

The infection is recurrent (3 or more episodes in 6 months)

The infection may be caused by a non-albicans Candida species

The patient is in the second or third trimester of pregnancy and an oral antifungal isn't desired

Terconazole Dosage Forms and How to Use Them

Terconazole comes in three FDA-approved formulations for vaginal use:

0.4% vaginal cream (Terazol 7): Insert one full applicator (20 mg terconazole) vaginally once nightly at bedtime for 7 consecutive days.

0.8% vaginal cream (Terazol 3): Insert one full applicator (40 mg terconazole) vaginally once nightly at bedtime for 3 consecutive days.

80 mg vaginal suppository (Terazol 3): Insert one suppository vaginally once nightly at bedtime for 3 consecutive days.

General tips for use:

Wash hands before and after each application

Use at bedtime — lying down minimizes leakage

Complete the full course even if symptoms improve before the last dose

Do not use tampons during treatment

Avoid sexual intercourse during treatment

The suppository base can degrade latex condoms and diaphragms — use non-latex barrier methods or wait 3 days after completing treatment

How Quickly Does Terconazole Work?

Most patients begin to notice improvement in symptoms (itching, burning, discharge) within 2-3 days of starting treatment. Full resolution typically occurs by the end of the treatment course (3 or 7 days). If symptoms haven't improved after 3 days of the 3-day regimen, or are not resolved after completing the 7-day regimen, contact your healthcare provider.

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Common Side Effects

Terconazole is generally well-tolerated. The most commonly reported side effects include:

Headache (reported in 21-30% of patients in clinical trials)

Vaginal burning, itching, or irritation

Dysmenorrhea (painful periods)

Mild abdominal pain

Rare but serious reactions include anaphylaxis and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Stop using Terconazole and seek emergency care if you develop hives, difficulty breathing, or blistering/peeling skin.

Is Terconazole Safe During Pregnancy?

Terconazole is generally avoided in the first trimester of pregnancy due to systemic absorption concerns. In the second and third trimester, it may be prescribed when the benefit to the mother outweighs potential risk. The FDA recommends against oral fluconazole in pregnancy, making vaginal terconazole a preferred option for pregnant patients in many clinical situations. Always discuss with your OB-GYN or midwife.

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How to Get Terconazole

You need a prescription from your OB-GYN, PCP, NP, or a telehealth provider. Once you have the prescription, use medfinder to find which pharmacy near you has it in stock. For help getting a prescription, see: How to Find a Doctor Who Can Prescribe Terconazole Near You.