Canesten Thrush Combi 500mg Pessary & 2% External Cream

Description

Canesten Thrush Combi 500mg Pessary & 2% External Cream

Canesten Thrush Combi is a dual-action treatment for vaginal thrush, combining a single-dose 500mg clotrimazole pessary for internal treatment with a 2% clotrimazole cream to relieve external symptoms such as itching, redness, and irritation around the vagina.

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How It Works

Both the pessary and cream contain clotrimazole, an antifungal medicine that kills the Candida fungus responsible for thrush. Clotrimazole works by damaging the cell membrane of the fungus, causing it to die and clearing the infection. The pessary treats the infection internally, while the cream soothes uncomfortable external symptoms.

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Directions for Use

This product is suitable for adults and young people aged 16 and over. Insert the 500mg pessary high into the vagina using the applicator provided, preferably at bedtime. Apply the 2% external cream to the skin around the vagina two or three times daily and rub in gently. The pessary is a single-dose treatment, while the cream should be used until symptoms have fully resolved. 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 (pessary)
• Clotrimazole 20mg/g (2% external cream)

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Possible Side Effects

• Local burning, stinging, or irritation after applying the cream or inserting the pessary
• Redness or skin rash around the treated area
• Peeling or blistering of the skin
• Swelling or discomfort in the vaginal area
• Rarely, allergic reactions such as hives or widespread rash

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

• People under 16 years of age
• Anyone who has never had vaginal thrush diagnosed by a doctor before
• Anyone who has had more than two episodes of thrush in the past six months
• People who are allergic to clotrimazole or any other ingredient in this product
• Anyone with a sexually transmitted infection (STI), as symptoms can be similar to thrush
• Anyone with irregular vaginal bleeding, blood-stained discharge, or ulcers/blisters in the vaginal area
• Men should not use the pessary; the external cream may be used by male partners under guidance

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Interactions

Clotrimazole pessaries and creams may damage latex condoms and diaphragms, making them less effective as contraceptives or protection against sexually transmitted infections — avoid using latex contraceptives whilst using this product and for at least five days after. No significant interactions with oral medicines are expected with topical use. 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

Clotrimazole is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding; however, if you are pregnant, the pessary applicator should not be used and the pessary should be inserted carefully by hand. 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 Canesten Thrush Combi. This product is applied locally and is not taken by mouth, so alcohol consumption is not expected to affect how the medicine works.

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Driving and Operating Machinery

Canesten Thrush Combi is applied locally and is not taken by mouth. It is not expected to cause drowsiness or affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.

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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