Canesten Thrush Combi SOFT GEL Pessary and Cream 10g

Canesten Thrush Combi is a complete vaginal thrush treatment that pairs a single clotrimazole 500mg soft-gel pessary with a 2% clotrimazole external cream, for women aged 16 to 60 who have previously had thrush diagnosed, supplied by Ways Pharmacy (UK).

Key facts

Who it is for

• Women aged 16 to 60 who recognise the symptoms of vaginal thrush from a previous, doctor-confirmed episode
• Women who want both an internal pessary and an external cream in one pack for itching and discharge
• Women who prefer a single-dose internal treatment rather than a multi-day course

Not suitable for: first-ever episodes of thrush (see a GP or pharmacist for diagnosis first); anyone under 16 or over 60; women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive; anyone who has had more than two episodes in the last six months, or who has abnormal bleeding, sores, blisters, unpleasant-smelling discharge, lower abdominal pain or fever — these need medical assessment. Do not use if allergic to clotrimazole.

How to use

1. Read the patient information leaflet fully before starting.
2. Wash your hands before and after using both the pessary and the cream.
3. Insert the soft-gel pessary high into the vagina, ideally at night before going to sleep; the applicator instructions are in the leaflet.
4. Apply the external cream thinly to the itchy, sore area around the vulva 2-3 times a day.
5. If symptoms have not improved after 7 days, or come back within 7 days, stop and see your doctor.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Canesten Thrush Combi take to work?

The single soft-gel pessary releases clotrimazole over a few hours, and many women notice symptoms easing within a few days. If your symptoms have not improved after 7 days, or they return within 7 days, see your doctor rather than repeating treatment.

Can I use Canesten Thrush Combi if it is my first time with thrush?

No. This product is intended for women who have had thrush diagnosed before and recognise the symptoms. If this is your first episode, see a doctor or pharmacist to confirm the diagnosis, because other conditions can cause similar symptoms.

Can I use it during my period?

It is usually better to wait until your period has finished, as menstrual flow can wash the pessary out before it has worked. Do not use tampons, spermicides or other vaginal products while using the pessary. Ask your pharmacist if you are unsure.

Can I use Canesten Thrush Combi in pregnancy?

Not without medical advice. If you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, are breastfeeding or are trying to conceive, speak to your doctor before using this treatment.

Does the cream affect condoms?

Clotrimazole cream and pessary can damage latex condoms and diaphragms, so they may not protect against pregnancy or infection. Use alternative precautions for at least five days after treatment.

Safety and storage

• For vaginal and external genital use only. Do not use on nails or the scalp.
• Stop and see a doctor if symptoms do not improve within 7 days or recur within 7 days.
• See a doctor before use if you have abnormal bleeding, sores, blisters, foul-smelling discharge, lower abdominal pain, fever or painful urination.
• Clotrimazole can weaken latex — use non-latex contraception precautions for at least five days.
• Do not store above 30 degrees C. Keep in the original carton to protect from moisture and out of the sight and reach of children.

References

• NHS — Thrush in men and women
• Canesten Combi Patient Information Leaflet (emc)

This page provides factual information about a pharmacy treatment for vaginal thrush and is not a substitute for medical advice. If this is your first episode, if symptoms recur, or if you are pregnant, under 16 or over 60, speak to your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the Patient Information Leaflet before use.