A patient with vaginal candidiasis is to be prescribed what medication?

Fluconazole 150mg taken orally once is considered an effective treatment for vaginal candidiasis, also known as a yeast infection. This antifungal medication works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes, ultimately leading to cell death. The single-dose regimen of fluconazole is convenient and has been shown to be effective in clearing yeast infections.

Other options may not be the best choice for this condition. Metronidazole is primarily used for bacterial infections and is not effective against the fungal species responsible for candidiasis. Clotrimazole can treat yeast infections, but it is typically used in a longer treatment course or as an intravaginal cream or suppository, which might not be as convenient as an oral dose for some patients. Nystatin is also effective against Candida species; however, its use is less common for vaginal candidiasis compared to fluconazole due to its need for more frequent application and administration.

In summary, fluconazole is usually preferred for treating vaginal candidiasis due to its efficacy, ease of use with a single dosing, and well-established safety profile.