Canesten Thrush Pessary – 500mg

Description

Canesten Thrush 500mg Pessaries 1 Pessary

Canesten Thrush 500mg Pessary is a single-dose vaginal treatment used to relieve the symptoms of thrush (vaginal candidiasis), including itching, irritation, and discharge caused by the fungal infection Candida albicans.

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How It Works

The active ingredient, clotrimazole, is an antifungal medicine that works by damaging the cell membrane of the Candida fungus. This causes the fungal cells to leak and die, clearing the infection and relieving symptoms. The pessary delivers the medicine directly to where it is needed inside the vagina.

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Directions for Use

This product is intended for adults and young people aged 16 and over. Insert the pessary as high as possible into the vagina, preferably at night before going to bed, using the applicator provided. This is a single-dose treatment — only one pessary is needed. 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
• Mild abdominal discomfort or pelvic pain
• Peeling or flaking of vaginal skin
• Allergic skin reactions such as rash or hives (uncommon)

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

• Children and young people under 16 years of age
• Anyone with a known allergy to clotrimazole or any other ingredient in the product
• Women who have never had vaginal thrush diagnosed by a doctor before
• Women who have had more than two episodes of thrush in the last six months
• Women whose partner has penile symptoms such as irritation or discharge
• Women who are pregnant (unless directed by a doctor — see below)
• Women with irregular or missed periods, unusual vaginal bleeding, or blood-stained discharge
• Women with vulval or vaginal sores, ulcers, or blisters

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Interactions

Clotrimazole pessaries can damage latex condoms and diaphragms, making them less effective as contraception. Avoid using latex contraceptives for at least five days after using this treatment. 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 — insert it gently by hand instead. The use of clotrimazole pessaries in pregnancy should only be considered under medical supervision, particularly during the first trimester. 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 clotrimazole pessaries and alcohol. This medicine is applied locally inside the vagina and is not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream, so alcohol is not expected to affect its efficacy or safety.

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Driving and Operating Machinery

Canesten Thrush 500mg Pessary is not known to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. The medicine acts locally and is unlikely to cause any systemic effects that would impair alertness or concentration.

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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: March 2026.

Brand	Canesten
Class	Pharmacy Medicine