Before using clotrimazole for thrush

To make sure this is the right treatment for you, before you start using clotrimazole for thrush, make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant.
• If you have previously had a sexually transmitted disease, or have had a partner with a sexually transmitted disease.
• If you have had more than two episodes of thrush in the previous six months.
• If you are under 16 or over 60 years of age.
• If you have a foul-smelling or blood-stained vaginal discharge, or if you have blisters or sores in the vaginal area.
• If you are in pain, feel sick, or have diarrhoea or a fever.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to a similar medicine.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.

How to use clotrimazole for thrush

• Before starting this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. The leaflet will give you more information about how to use the clotrimazole preparation you have been given.
• If you have been given clotrimazole cream, apply the cream to the area around the outside of your vagina and back passage two or three times daily.
• If you have been given clotrimazole intravaginal cream (for example Canesten 10% VC® or Canesten® Internal Cream), insert one dose high into your vagina at bedtime using the applicator.
• If you have been given clotrimazole pessaries, use the applicator to insert the pessary high up into your vagina at bedtime. The usual dose is a single 500 mg pessary, although this may be repeated once if needed. If you are pregnant, do not use the applicator to insert the pessary unless your doctor has recommended you to do so.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If you are using pessaries, these will dissolve in the vaginal fluid. You may notice some undissolved bits of pessary, especially if you suffer from vaginal dryness, but this is nothing to worry about.
• Clotrimazole may reduce the effectiveness of condoms and diaphragms. Consequently, you should use an alternative method of contraception (or avoid sexual intercourse) while you are being treated with clotrimazole and for five days afterwards.
• Do not use tampons, intravaginal douches, spermicides or any other vaginal products while you are using clotrimazole.
• If you are using the cream or have been told to use clotrimazole pessaries for more than one day, remember to complete the course even if your symptoms have improved. This will help to prevent your infection from coming back.
• In general, you can use these topical treatments if you are pregnant but you should always check with your doctor or pharmacist. Treatment may be needed for longer during pregnancy.
• If your symptoms have not improved within seven days of using clotrimazole, see your doctor for further advice.
• If your symptoms improve but then return, you may use a second course of clotrimazole. Do not use more than two courses of clotrimazole within six months without speaking to your doctor first.
• Other things that may help to relieve the symptoms of thrush include avoiding wearing tight-fitting underwear and clothing, and avoiding using perfumed products, such as soaps and shower gels, around the vaginal area.

Can clotrimazole for thrush cause problems?

Clotrimazole is unlikely to cause any unwanted symptoms. Occasionally, it may cause irritation and soreness. If you experience any other symptoms, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

How to store clotrimazole for thrush

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

References

• Manufacturer's PIL, Canesten® Cream 1%, Bayer plc, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated December 2010.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Canesten® 10% Vaginal Cream, Bayer plc, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated October 2009.
• Manufacturer's PIL, Canesten® 500 mg Vaginal Pessary, Bayer plc, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated October 2009.
• British National Formulary; 62nd Edition (Sep 2011) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF)