Canesten (Clotrimazole) 2% Cream
Description
What is Canesten 2% Cream?
Canesten 2% cream is an antifungal medication that is used to treat extreme irritation caused by fungal infections of the vagina. The cream specifically provides relief from symptoms of vaginal thrush that irritates the vulva.
How Does Canesten 2% Cream Work?
Vaginal thrush is an infection that is caused by an overgrowth of yeast. Candida albicans is a yeast that lives naturally in the bowel and some small portions in the vagina. However, when the numbers start increasing, the yeast begins to become harmful. Factors such as menopause, pregnancy, use of perfumed soap, contraceptive pills or certain antibiotics, poor health, tight clothing among others create a perfect environment for thrush to thrive. However, Canesten 2% cream works by inhibiting the growth of the fungus that causes the infection. As a result, the fungi are unable to reproduce or thrive in the body, thus it eventually dies and the symptoms are relieved.
What Does Canesten 2% Cream Treat?
- Vaginal candidiasis
- Unusual vagina discharge
- Thrush symptoms
Warnings
- Consult your doctor before using Canesten Cream if you are allergic to the ingredients it contains.
- Avoid engaging in sexual activities when infected with a thrush.
- Inform your doctor of your pregnancy and breastfeeding status before using Canesten cream.
- Consult your doctor before using Canesten cream if you have blisters or sores around your vulva.
- Do not use Canesten cream after the expiry.
Directions
- Canesten cream is only for external use and should not be ingested.
- If your doctor prescribed Canesten cream to you, follow all the instructions given by your doctor.
- If you are self-medicating, read the instructions provided on the prescription label.
- Wash your hands and dry them thoroughly before and after using the cream.
- Pierce the seal of the tube, invert the cap over the end of the tube and press to release the cream.
- To treat the itchiness of the vulva, apply the cream evenly two to three times a day and rub it gently.
- For men, apply the cream at the end of the penis two to three times a day for the recommended period.
- You must continue with the treatment for the duration recommended by your doctor even if the symptoms disappear sooner.
Ingredients
- Clotrimazole is the active ingredient in Canesten 2% cream
- The inactive ingredients are Benzyl Alcohol, Purified Water, Cetyl Palmitate, Polysorbate 60, sorbitan Stearate, Cetostearyl alcohol, and Octyldodecanol.
Side Effects
- Lower abdominal pain
- Swelling or redness in the vagina
- Lower abdominal pain
- Vaginal bleeding
FAQs
1. How do I use Canesten 2% Cream?
Apply the cream thinly and evenly to the affected area 2 to 3 times daily. Gently smooth it in and continue treatment until symptoms disappear. Consult your doctor if symptoms do not improve within 7 days.
2. Can I use Canesten 2% Cream while pregnant?
Yes, the cream can be used during pregnancy. However, consult your doctor or midwife before using the cream if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying for a baby.
3. Does Canesten 2% Cream treat internal thrush?
No, this cream is intended for external use only. For internal treatment of thrush, a different product, such as a pessary or oral medication, may be required.
4. Can men use Canesten 2% Cream?
Yes, male partners can use the cream to prevent re-infection in cases of recurrent thrush, even if they do not show symptoms.
5. What should I do if I miss an application?
If you miss an application, apply the cream as soon as you remember and continue as usual. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
