Dr. Greene logo

Treating Thrush

Question

My baby has thrush. What should I do?

Dr. Greene's Answer

In otherwise healthy children, thrush is a self-limited condition, usually resolving within a month from its first appearance. No treatment is required. Even though it will improve on its own, treatment is often recommended either to alleviate oral discomfort or to treat (or prevent) painful yeast diaper rashes.

Treatment usually consists of an antifungal medicine such as nystatin suspension. This can be applied, gently, directly to the plaques with a cotton-tipped applicator, or given orally 1-2ml four times daily. Sidney Hurwitz, M.D., in Clinical Pediatric Dermatology, suggests using a cotton-tipped applicator dipped into a mixture of one-fourth teaspoon of baking soda and one or two drops of mild liquid detergent (without ammonia or bleach) mixed in a glass of warm water.

Stronger medicines are available, though usually unnecessary. If the thrush persists, yeast on nipples or pacifiers should be considered as sources for reinfection. Nystatin can also be placed on mother’s breasts; artificial nipples and pacifiers can be sterilized.

Last medical review on: June 22, 2011
About the Author

Alan Greene MD

Photo of Alan Greene MD
Dr. Greene is a practicing physician, author, national and international TEDx speaker, and global health advocate. He is a graduate of Princeton University and University of California San Francisco.
Get Dr. Greene's Wellness RecommendationsSignup now to get Dr. Greene's healing philosophy, insight into medical trends, parenting tips, seasonal highlights, and health news delivered to your inbox every month.
About Us
  • About DrGreene.com
  • Contact Us
  • Awards
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
Content
  • Dr. Greene's Blog
  • Recipes
  • Books by Dr. Greene
  • Subscribe to our newsletter
DrGreene logo

Our goal is to improve children's health by inspiring parents to become knowledgable partners who can work with their children's physicians in new and rich ways.

  • Facebook
  • Twitter

© 1995 - 2025 DrGreene All Rights Reserved