Clotrimazole for Thrush

About clotrimazole for thrush

Vaginal thrush (candidiasis) is usually caused by a yeast, Candida albicans, and is the most common type of vaginal infection. Common symptoms of thrush are itching, soreness, swelling and redness of the vaginal area and a white, odourless vaginal discharge.

Clotrimazole works by killing Candida albicans.

Before using clotrimazole for thrush

Before using clotrimazole for thrush make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have a previous history of sexually transmitted disease (STD) or have been exposed to a partner with a sexually transmitted disease.
• If you have had more than two episodes of thrush in the last 6 months.
• If you are under 16 or over 60 years of age.
• If you have foul smelling or blood stained vaginal discharge or have blisters or sores in the vaginal area.
• If you have abdominal pain or a fever.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or a similar medicine.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.

How to use clotrimazole for thrush

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Use clotrimazole exactly as directed by your doctor.
• If you have been given clotrimazole cream to apply to the area around the vagina and anus, apply it two or three times daily.
• If you have been given clotrimazole vaginal cream (for example Canesten® VC) insert one dose high into the vagina at bedtime using the applicator.
• If you have been given clotrimazole vaginal pessaries, follow the manufacturers instructions and use the applicator to insert the pessary high up into the vagina at bedtime.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If you have been told to use clotrimazole for more than one day, remember to complete the prescribed course even if your symptoms have improved. This will help prevent recurrence of the infection.
• If your symptoms have not improved within 7 days of using clotrimazole, tell your doctor.
• If your symptoms improve but then return, you may use a second course of clotrimazole. Do not use more than 2 courses of clotrimazole within 6 months without speaking to a doctor first.
• Clotrimazole damages latex condoms and diaphragms. You will need to use alternative methods of contraception or avoid sexual intercourse while you are being treated with clotrimazole and for 5 days afterwards.
• If you are pregnant and are using the pessary form of clotrimazole, do not use the applicator to insert the pessary unless instructed to do so by your doctor.
• The pessary will dissolve in the vaginal fluid. You may notice some undissolved bits of pessary especially if you suffer from vaginal dryness. You may wish to wear a panty liner to protect your underwear while using clotrimazole vaginal products.

Can clotrimazole for thrush cause problems?

This medicine is unlikely to cause any unwanted symptoms. Occasionally it may cause irritation and soreness. If you experience any worrying symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Important: If you experience fainting or difficulty breathing speak with a doctor or go to your local accident and emergency department without delay. These are signs that you may be allergic to clotrimazole.

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