Canesten Thrush Soft Gel Pessary 500mg (Clotrimazole) - Single Dose

Canesten Thrush Soft Gel Pessary is a single-dose internal treatment for vaginal thrush, containing clotrimazole 500mg in a soft gel pessary with applicator — a pharmacy medicine sold by Ways Pharmacy (UK).

Key facts

Who it is for

• Women aged 16–60 with vaginal thrush diagnosed before, recognising the same symptoms
• Those who prefer a single-dose internal pessary over a course of cream
• Often combined with an external clotrimazole 2% cream if there is also external itching (see the Canesten Combi products)

See a doctor instead if: this is your first episode of thrush; you are under 16 or over 60; you have had more than 2 infections in 6 months; you are pregnant or breastfeeding (use only on medical advice); you have abnormal or irregular bleeding, ulcers or blisters, lower abdominal pain or fever.

How to use

1. Read the patient information leaflet before use.
2. Insert one pessary into the vagina using the applicator, at night before sleep.
3. One pessary is a complete treatment. Symptoms usually improve within 3 days; if they persist after 7 days, see your doctor.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Pessary, internal cream or oral capsule — which Canesten should I choose?
A: All treat thrush with a single dose. The soft gel pessary and internal cream work at the site; the oral capsule (fluconazole) is taken by mouth. If you also have external itching, choose a Combi pack that adds external cream. Our pharmacist can advise which suits you.

Q: Can I use it during my period?
A: It is better to wait until your period has finished, as menstrual flow can wash the treatment away.

Q: Will it damage condoms?
A: Yes — clotrimazole products can weaken latex condoms and diaphragms during use and for up to 5 days after. Use alternative precautions.

Safety and storage

• Always read the patient information leaflet before use.
• Do not use if allergic to clotrimazole or any listed ingredient.
• Store below 25°C. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

Canesten Thrush Soft Gel Pessary (clotrimazole 500mg) is a pharmacy medicine. Always read the leaflet. If symptoms persist or this is your first episode, speak to our pharmacist or your GP. Suspected side effects can be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.