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Patient instructions

Boric Acid Suppositories Patient Instructions

These instructions are for compounded boric acid vaginal suppositories. Boric acid is a weak topical antiseptic, antifungal, and antiviral agent prescribed for chronic or recurrent vaginal infections, including vaginal yeast infections. Available by prescription only.

Vaginal use only

Boric acid is poisonous if taken by mouth. Never swallow a suppository, and store them where they cannot be mistaken for an oral medication.

Plan around intimacy

Your partner may notice a gritty sensation during intercourse while you are on treatment. Avoid oral-to-genital contact for 24 hours after using a suppository.

Wash your hands

Wash your hands before and after every insertion.

How to Use

  1. 1Wash your hands before handling the suppository.
  2. 2Insert one suppository into the vagina, as directed on your prescription label.
  3. 3For treating an infection, the usual schedule is once or twice daily for 10 to 14 days, as recommended by your doctor.
  4. 4For preventing recurrent infections, one suppository twice weekly is a commonly prescribed schedule.
  5. 5Wash your hands again after insertion.

If You Miss a Dose

  • Use the missed dose as soon as you remember.
  • If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your regular schedule. Do not double up.
  • If you are unsure what to do, check with the pharmacist.

Side Effects

Boric acid suppositories are generally well tolerated. Side effects, when they occur, are most likely early in treatment:

  • Watery discharge — a liner can help protect clothing.
  • A burning sensation.
  • Redness of the skin.

If there is an open wound, cut, or scrape in the vaginal wall, boric acid can enter the bloodstream and cause nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting. If any of these appear, stop using the suppositories and wait until the area has healed before restarting.

Serious Allergic Reaction

A very serious allergic reaction to this medication is rare. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following:

  • Rash
  • Itching or swelling, especially of the face, tongue, or throat
  • Severe dizziness
  • Trouble breathing

Storage

Store at room temperature, away from extremes of heat or moisture, and keep them out of reach of children — boric acid is poisonous if swallowed. Check the beyond-use date on the pharmacy label.

When to Call the Pharmacy

  • You develop nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting — if there is an open cut or scrape in the vaginal wall, boric acid can enter the bloodstream. Stop using the suppositories and wait until the area is healed before restarting.
  • You are not sure whether your schedule is the treatment course or the twice-weekly prevention schedule.
  • Symptoms are not improving by the end of the prescribed course.
  • You are running low — compounded suppositories are prepared to order, so plan refills a few days ahead.