Private Oral Thrush
Oral Thrush (Oral Candidiasis)
Book online at a pharmacy in 4 towns in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
About Oral Thrush
Oral thrush is a fungal infection of the mouth. It is not contagious. A pharmacist can check your symptoms and, if suitable, supply an antifungal liquid (nystatin).
Who it’s for
- Adults, children and babies aged 4 months and over (5 to 6 months if born early)
- See a GP if you have had symptoms for more than 3 weeks, pain or difficulty swallowing, or weight loss you cannot explain
- See a GP if you have a weakened immune system or are having chemotherapy or radiotherapy
- See a GP if treatment you bought has not helped after 7 days
Common questions
How much does it cost?
Each pharmacy sets its own price. You can see it when you choose a pharmacy.
What are the symptoms?
White patches that can often be wiped away, leaving red areas that may bleed slightly. You may also have a burning feeling, cracks at the corners of your mouth, or a change in taste.
How long does treatment take?
The pharmacy treatment is used for 7 days, and for 48 hours after the patches have gone.
What causes oral thrush?
It can happen after antibiotics, using a steroid inhaler, wearing dentures that do not fit well, a dry mouth or smoking.
Can I get oral thrush treatment on the NHS at a pharmacy?
If you live in Scotland or are registered with a GP practice there, you can use NHS Pharmacy First Scotland. Oral thrush is on its list of conditions. You can book the private service if you prefer, or if the NHS service does not cover you.
How can I stop it coming back?
Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. If you use a steroid inhaler, rinse your mouth after using it.
More information
- ScotlandNHS inform: Oral thrush in adults (opens in a new tab)
- Northern Irelandnidirect: Oral thrush in adults (opens in a new tab)
- England and WalesNHS: Oral thrush (mouth thrush) (opens in a new tab)
Sources: NHS inform: Oral thrush in adults, NHS inform: NHS Pharmacy First Scotland.
How it works
Choose a service
Pick the service you need.
Find a pharmacy
Enter your town or postcode to see pharmacies near you that book it online.
Book a time
Choose a day and time, answer the pharmacy’s questions and send your booking. The pharmacy confirms it by email.