Canesten vaginal cream (Clotrimazole) is an over-the-counter medication used to treat vaginal yeast infections (thrush). Thrush is not an STI or a serious condition, but it may feel uncomfortable. Symptoms of vaginal thrush include itching, swelling, redness, unusual discharge, burning, and soreness. The active ingredient in Canesten vaginal cream is Clotrimazole. Clotrimazole belongs to a class of drugs called antifungals. It works by killing the overgrowth of yeast causing the infection. Clotrimazole relieves symptoms of vaginal yeast infection within hours of starting the medicine.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Canesten vaginal cream from Canada manufactured by Bayer in the strength of 1%/15 gm and 2%/15 gm cream. The generic Clotrimazole is also available from Canada by a different manufacturer in the strength of 1%/50 gm and 2%/25 gm cream with applicator.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Canesten vaginal cream. The most common side effects of Canesten vaginal cream may include the following:
• Abdominal cramps;
• Bloating;
• Itching;
• Rash
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Blistering;
• Peeling;
• Vaginal bleeding
These are not all of the side effects of Canesten vaginal cream. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Canesten vaginal cream if you are allergic to Clotrimazole or any ingredient in Canesten vaginal cream. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are experiencing a vaginal yeast infection for the first time;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant;
• Have foul-smelling vaginal discharge;
• Have frequent vaginal yeast infections;
• Have multiple sexual partners
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Canesten vaginal cream and progesterone, sirolimus, tacrolimus, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Canesten vaginal cream should not be used in pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is not known if Clotrimazole passes into breast milk or if it may affect a nursing infant. Use Canesten vaginal cream precisely as prescribed by your doctor. The drug is for use in and outside the vagina. Do not take it by mouth. Wash your hands before using Clotrimazole. Use the applicator provided to insert the cream high into your vagina once daily, preferably at bedtime. Insert the applicator gently and deeply into the vagina and slowly depress the plunger to instill the cream. Apply a thin layer of the topical cream to the vaginal area to relieve external symptoms. Use and complete your treatment with Clotrimazole before menstruation begins. Do not use this drug when menstruating. Avoid using tampons, douches, or vaginal spermicides when using Canesten vaginal cream. Clotrimazole may reduce the effectiveness of latex condoms, diaphragms, and vaginal spermicides. Use alternative forms of birth control while using this medication. Avoid vaginal intercourse to prevent transmission of HIV and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) during treatment until symptoms of thrush have resolved. If you do not see improvement within 3 days or your symptoms do not disappear in 7 days, it may be due to a condition other than a yeast infection. Stop using the drug and contact your doctor immediately. Keep this medicine out of the sight of children. Store between 150C-300C.