Canesten Thrush Soft Gel 500mg Pessary

Description

Canesten Thrush Soft Gel 500mg Pessary

Canesten Thrush Soft Gel 500mg Pessary is an antifungal treatment used to relieve and treat vaginal thrush (candidiasis) in women aged 16 and over. It contains clotrimazole, a well-established antifungal medicine that works to clear the infection and ease symptoms such as itching, soreness, and discharge.

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How It Works

Clotrimazole works by targeting the cell membranes of the Candida fungus that causes thrush. It disrupts the production of a substance called ergosterol, which the fungus needs to survive, causing the fungal cells to break down and die. This helps to clear the infection and relieve uncomfortable symptoms.

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Directions for Use

This product is suitable for women aged 16 and over. Insert one 500mg soft gel pessary as high as possible into the vagina, preferably at bedtime, using the applicator provided. A single dose is usually all that is needed; however, if symptoms persist, speak to your doctor. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If you are unsure about the correct dose, speak to your PillSorted pharmacist.

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Active Ingredients

• Clotrimazole 500mg per pessary

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Possible Side Effects

• Local irritation, burning, or stinging in or around the vagina
• Redness or swelling of the vaginal area
• Vaginal discomfort or pelvic pain
• Skin rash or peeling in the treated area
• Allergic reaction (rash, hives, difficulty breathing) — rare but possible

If you experience any serious side effects, stop taking this medicine and seek medical advice immediately.

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Who Should Not Take This Medicine

• Women under 16 years of age
• Women who have had more than two thrush infections in the last six months
• Those who have previously had an allergic reaction to clotrimazole or any other ingredient in this product
• Women with any abnormal or irregular vaginal bleeding, blood-stained discharge, or ulcers
• Those with symptoms including fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or lower abdominal pain
• Women who have had a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or contact with a partner with an STI in the last 12 months

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Interactions

Clotrimazole pessaries may weaken latex condoms and diaphragms, so alternative contraceptive methods should be used during treatment and for at least five days afterwards. There are no significant known interactions with other oral medicines when used as a pessary, but caution is advised. Tell your PillSorted pharmacist or doctor about all medicines you are currently taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.

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Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

If you are pregnant, the applicator should not be used to insert the pessary — it should be inserted carefully by hand instead. Clotrimazole is generally considered safe to use during breastfeeding as systemic absorption is minimal. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.

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Alcohol

There is no known interaction between alcohol and clotrimazole pessaries. This product is applied locally inside the vagina, and alcohol is not expected to affect how it works or increase the risk of side effects.

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Driving and Operating Machinery

Canesten Thrush Soft Gel 500mg Pessary is not expected to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is used locally in the vagina and does not have a sedating effect.

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Storage

Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct heat and sunlight. Keep out of sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date shown on the packaging.

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Important Information

• This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking any other medication or complementary therapy.
• If symptoms worsen or persist, contact your doctor.
• If pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, seek medical advice before use.
• If you suffer from allergies, confirm suitability with your PillSorted pharmacist before use.
• Store out of sight and reach of children.
• Read the enclosed patient information leaflet carefully before use.
• Contact your GP where appropriate.

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Patient Information Leaflet

For the full Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) for this medicine, visit the electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). For further information about this medicine, visit NHS.uk.

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This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: February 2026.

Brand	Canesten