Canesten 2% Thrush External Cream – 20g

Description

Canesten 2% Thrush External Cream – 20g

Canesten 2% Thrush External Cream is an antifungal treatment used to relieve the external symptoms of vaginal thrush, including itching, soreness, and irritation around the entrance of the vagina. It contains clotrimazole 2% and is applied directly to the affected area on the outside of the body.

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How It Works

The active ingredient, clotrimazole, is an antifungal agent that works by damaging the cell membranes of the Candida fungus responsible for thrush. This stops the fungus from growing and spreading, allowing the body to clear the infection and relieving uncomfortable symptoms such as itching and irritation.

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Directions for Use

Adults and young people aged 16 and over should apply a small amount of cream to the skin around the entrance of the vagina 2 to 3 times daily. Gently rub the cream into the affected area and continue use until symptoms have cleared, typically for up to 7 days. This cream is for external use only and should not be inserted into the vagina. 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 2% w/w (20 mg per gram of cream)

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Possible Side Effects

• Local skin irritation, burning, or stinging after application
• Redness or rash at the site of application
• Peeling or blistering of the skin
• Allergic skin reactions (such as hives or swelling)

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 who are allergic to clotrimazole or any other ingredient in this cream
• Children under 16 years of age (without medical supervision)
• People who have never had vaginal thrush previously diagnosed by a doctor
• People whose symptoms are not typical of thrush (e.g., unusual discharge, fever, or pelvic pain)
• People who have had more than two thrush infections in the last six months without medical review

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Interactions

Clotrimazole cream may reduce the effectiveness of latex contraceptives such as condoms and diaphragms, so alternative contraception should be used during treatment and for several days after. As this is a topically applied cream with minimal systemic absorption, interactions with other medicines are uncommon. 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

Canesten 2% Thrush External Cream can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but it should be used with caution, particularly during the first trimester. Applicators should not be used during pregnancy if applicable, and care should be taken to avoid contact with a breastfeeding baby’s mouth. 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 Canesten 2% Thrush External Cream and alcohol. As this medicine is applied topically to the skin, alcohol consumption does not affect how the medicine works.

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Driving and Operating Machinery

Canesten 2% Thrush External Cream does not cause drowsiness and is not expected to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is applied externally to the skin and has no known effect on alertness or concentration.

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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