Clotrimazole for Thrush

About clotrimazole for thrush

This belongs to the group of medicines known as Antifungals.

Clotrimazole is used to treat fungal infections such as vaginal thrush. Some forms of clotrimazole are specifically designed for vaginal 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.

Vaginal clotrimazole is available as vaginal pessaries and vaginal cream. Clotrimazole is also available as a combination pack containing both cream and pessaries.

It is also sometimes known as: Abtrim; Candiden; Canesten; Canesten Combi Pack; Canesten Once. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before using clotrimazole for thrush

Before using clotrimazole make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you have diabetes
• 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 any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to use clotrimazole for thrush

• Use clotrimazole exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the printed information leaflet, if possible before beginning treatment.
• If you have been given the vaginal pessaries follow the manufacturers instructions and use the applicator to insert the pessary high up into the vagina.
• Clotrimazole is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Complete the prescribed course of clotrimazole, even if your symptoms have improved or menstruation occurs to prevent recurrence of the infection.
• 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.
• If you are pregnant and are using the pessary form of clotrimazole, do not use the applicator to insert each 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.
• Clotrimazole is for vaginal (external) use only. Do not put it in your mouth or swallow it. If you do accidentally swallow it tell your doctor immediately or contact the accident and emergency department of your local hospital.
• Before taking or using any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to use alongside clotrimazole.

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.

How to store clotrimazole for thrush

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 27/09/2005