Oral thrush is a fungal infection in the mouth caused by Candida. It shows up as white patches on the tongue or inner cheeks, sometimes with soreness, a loss of taste, or cracks at the corners of the mouth. It's common in babies, denture wearers and people using steroid inhalers, and often follows a course of antibiotics.
Treatments & products
POM
Nystatin oral suspension
Prescription antifungal suspension for oral thrush, adults 18+
From £22.99
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P
Daktarin Oral Gel
Antifungal oral gel that treats and prevents oral thrush (Candida) in adults and...
from £7.99
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Oral Thrush — your questions, answered
How is oral thrush treated?
With an antifungal used in the mouth. Daktarin oral gel (miconazole) is available from the pharmacy after a few questions from our pharmacist to check it's suitable. If a gel isn't right for you, nystatin suspension is a prescription liquid our pharmacist can supply after a consultation — see our oral thrush treatment service. Treatment usually takes a week or two.
Can I stop oral thrush coming back?
Good mouth care makes a real difference: brush your teeth twice a day, clean dentures well and don't sleep in them, and if you use a steroid inhaler, rinse your mouth out — or use a spacer — after each dose. If thrush keeps returning, it's worth a check, as recurrent thrush can point to something else, such as diabetes.
When should I see a GP about oral thrush?
See your GP if it hasn't improved after treatment, if it keeps coming back, or if you have pain or difficulty swallowing — that can mean the infection has spread further down the throat and needs different treatment. Babies with thrush who are struggling to feed, and anyone with a weakened immune system, should also be seen.
Information only — always read the patient leaflet and ask our pharmacist if you're unsure. Prescription treatments are supplied only after a consultation and our pharmacist's approval.