Canesten Thrush Combi Internal & External Creams

Description

Canesten Thrush Combi Internal & External Creams

Canesten Thrush Combi Internal & External Creams is a dual-action treatment for vaginal thrush. It contains clotrimazole and comes as two separate creams — one to treat the infection inside the vagina and one to relieve external itching and soreness.

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How It Works

Both creams contain clotrimazole, an antifungal medicine that works by damaging the outer layer (cell membrane) of the Candida fungus that causes thrush. This stops the fungus from growing and spreading, clearing the infection and relieving uncomfortable symptoms such as itching, burning, and discharge.

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Directions for Use

This product is for women aged 16 to 60 years who have previously been diagnosed with vaginal thrush by a doctor.

Internal cream: Using the applicator provided, insert one full applicator (5 g) of the internal cream as deeply as possible into the vagina, preferably at night before going to bed. This is used as a single dose.

External cream: Apply a small amount of the external cream (2%) thinly to the skin around the outside of the vagina (the vulva) two to three times daily for up to one to two weeks, or until symptoms have cleared. Wash hands before and after use.

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

• Internal cream: Clotrimazole 10% w/w (500 mg per 5 g applicator dose)
• External cream: Clotrimazole 2% w/w

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Possible Side Effects

• Mild burning, stinging, or irritation after applying the cream
• Redness or rash around the treated area
• Peeling or soreness of the skin
• Allergic reactions (e.g., swelling, severe itching, or hives) — 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 or over 60 years of age
• Anyone who has not previously had vaginal thrush diagnosed by a doctor
• Anyone with an allergy to clotrimazole or any other ingredient in the product
• Women who are pregnant (especially in the first trimester) — seek medical advice before use
• Women with abnormal or irregular vaginal bleeding, blood-stained discharge, or pelvic pain
• Women with an ulcer, blister, or sore in the vaginal area
• Anyone whose partner has penile symptoms such as itching or discharge — both partners should seek medical advice

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Interactions

Clotrimazole cream can damage latex condoms and diaphragms, making them less effective as contraceptives and as protection against sexually transmitted infections — avoid using these during treatment and for at least five days after. There are no significant interactions with oral medicines when used topically, but it is always best to be cautious. 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

The internal cream applicator should not be used during pregnancy, as inserting it into the vagina may carry risks. The external cream may be used with caution during pregnancy, but only under medical supervision. Clotrimazole is considered low risk during breastfeeding when used topically, but care should be taken to avoid applying it to the nipple area. 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 cream. As this product is applied externally and internally as a topical treatment, alcohol consumption is not expected to affect how the medicine works or its safety.

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Driving and Operating Machinery

Canesten Thrush Combi Internal & External Creams is a topical treatment and is not expected to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. If you experience any unexpected symptoms that may impair your concentration or reaction, seek advice from your PillSorted pharmacist.

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Storage

Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from direct heat and sunlight. Do not refrigerate or freeze. 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