Description
How it works
Clotrimazole is an antifungal medicine from the imidazole family. It works by:
- Blocking production of ergosterol, a key component of the fungal cell membrane
- Damaging the fungal cell membrane, so the fungus can’t grow and eventually dies
- Targeting the Candida yeast that commonly causes vaginal thrush
Because the tablet is placed directly into the vagina, a high concentration of clotrimazole reaches the site of infection, while only very small amounts are absorbed into the bloodstream.
Who it may be suitable for
This product is intended for adult women (16–60 years) who have symptoms suggestive of vaginal thrush, such as:
- Itching, soreness or irritation around the vagina and vulva
- Thick white, “cottage cheese-like” discharge, usually without a strong odour
- Redness or swelling around the vulva
- Discomfort during sex or when passing urine
It may be suitable if:
- You’ve had thrush diagnosed before and your current symptoms are the same
- You prefer a single-dose internal treatment instead of a multi-day course
Do not use without medical advice if:
You should speak to a doctor or pharmacist before using this product if:
- This is your first ever episode of vaginal thrush
- You’ve had more than two thrush infections in the last 6 months
- You are pregnant or think you might be pregnant
- You are under 16 or over 60
Do not use the tablet and seek medical advice instead if you have any of the following:
- Abnormal or blood-stained vaginal bleeding
- Irregular bleeding between periods
- Vulval or vaginal ulcers, blisters or sores
- Lower abdominal pain or pain when passing urine
- Fever or chills
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
- Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
- Severe redness, irritation or swelling of the vulva or vagina
- Known allergy to clotrimazole or any ingredient in the tablet
Side Effects
Most women use the tablet without problems. When side effects occur, they are usually mild and short-lived, and tend to be local (in and around the vagina).
Common or recognised side effects include:
- Vaginal or vulval irritation
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Itching or redness around the vagina
- Discomfort or pain in the vaginal area
- Increased or altered vaginal discharge
- Mild vaginal bleeding or spotting
- These effects are usually temporary. If irritation is severe, persistent or worsening, stop using the product and speak to a clinician.
Allergic reactions (rare but serious):
Stop using the product and seek urgent medical help if you notice:
- Sudden rash, itching or hives
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Feeling faint, dizzy, or a sudden drop in blood pressure
Other less common effects may include:
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- General skin rash or itching elsewhere on the body
Patient Information Leaflet
Please see HERE for the Patient Information Leaflet
Additional Info
- Active ingredient: Clotrimazole 500 mg
- Use: Single-dose treatment of vaginal thrush
- Age group: Adults 16–60 years (outside this range, seek medical advice)
- Route: Inserted into the vagina, not taken by mouth
- Pregnancy: May be used if advised by a doctor or midwife; insert without applicator
- Breastfeeding: Can generally be used; only tiny amounts are absorbed into the bloodstream
- Driving and machinery: No expected effect on ability to drive or use machines
Contraception and latex products:
- Clotrimazole in the vagina can temporarily weaken latex (e.g. condoms and diaphragms)
- The reliability of latex contraceptives may be reduced during treatment and for about 5 days afterwards
- Use alternative precautions (e.g. non-latex condoms or avoid intercourse) during this time
If symptoms do not improve within 7 days, or thrush returns more than twice in six months, you should see a doctor to rule out underlying conditions (such as diabetes or immune problems) or alternative diagnoses.
Directions
How to take the drug
Clotrimazole 500 mg Vaginal Tablet is for vaginal use only – not to be swallowed.
- Use one 500 mg vaginal tablet as a single dose, preferably at night before going to bed
- The tablet is inserted high into the vagina using the single-use applicator supplied
Step-by-step (for non-pregnant users):
- Wash your hands
- Remove the vaginal tablet from the foil
- Place the tablet into the applicator as instructed in the pack
- Lie on your back with your knees slightly bent, or adopt another comfortable position
- Gently insert the applicator into the vagina as far as is comfortable
- Slowly press the plunger to release the tablet
- Remove the applicator and dispose of it safely (single use only)
- Remain lying down for a short time to help the tablet stay in place
Because the tablet dissolves with moisture inside the vagina, you may notice some residue or crumbling the next day – this is normal.
During pregnancy:
- The tablet can be used if recommended by your doctor or midwife
- It should be inserted with a clean finger instead of the applicator
Important practical points:
- Do not use during your period – the treatment may be washed out by menstrual flow
- Aim to finish treatment before your period starts
- Do not use tampons, douches, spermicides or other vaginal products at the same time
- Avoid vaginal intercourse during treatment and while infection is present, as it can delay healing and your partner may also become infected
A second single-dose treatment can be used if necessary, but if symptoms persist or recur frequently, you should see a doctor.
Missed a dose?
This product is used as a single dose, so there is no daily schedule.
- If you forgot to use the tablet on the intended night, use it as soon as you remember on a suitable evening
- If you accidentally expel the tablet soon after insertion, you may need to insert a new one – speak to a pharmacist or doctor for advice
If your symptoms have not improved within one week, or they come back again within a short time, seek medical advice rather than repeating the treatment repeatedly.
FAQs
What is this tablet used for?
It’s a single-dose vaginal treatment for thrush (candidal vaginitis), helping to relieve itching, soreness and abnormal discharge caused by yeast infection.
How quickly will it work?
Many women start to feel relief from itching and soreness within a day or two, but it may take up to 7 days for symptoms to fully clear. If there’s no improvement after a week, seek medical advice.
Can I use it during my period?
No. Treatment should not be used during menstruation because the tablet can be washed out. Try to complete the treatment before your period starts.
Can I still have sex while using it?
It’s best to avoid vaginal intercourse while you have an active infection and during treatment. Sex can irritate the area and delay healing, the infection may be passed to your partner or the treatment may damage latex condoms or diaphragms and make them less reliable for up to 5 days.
Can I use tampons with this treatment?
No. Do not use tampons, vaginal douches, spermicides or other intravaginal products during treatment, as these can remove or dilute the medicine and reduce its effectiveness.
Is it safe to use in pregnancy?
Clotrimazole can be used in pregnancy if your doctor or midwife recommends it. When pregnant insert the tablet with a clean finger, not the applicator. Always seek medical advice before treating yourself if you are pregnant or might be pregnant
Can I use this if I keep getting thrush?
If thrush comes back more than twice in six months, you should see a doctor rather than repeatedly self-treat. Recurrent thrush may need, a longer course or different formulation, a check for contributing factors such as diabetes, antibiotics, tight clothing or irritants.
Will it affect my normal contraceptive pill?
It does not affect the hormone levels of the pill. However, because it can weaken latex condoms and diaphragms, you may need to use non-latex condoms, or use an additional method for at least 5 days after treatment
What should I do if I get burning or irritation after inserting the tablet?
Mild burning or irritation can occur and usually settles quickly. if the discomfort is severe, gets worse, or you develop rash, swelling or breathing problems, stop using the product and seek medical advice promptly.
When should I see a doctor urgently?
Get medical help if you have abnormal or blood-stained discharge, or unexpected bleeding Develop fever, pelvic or stomach pain, or feel very unwell. Have foul-smelling discharge. Notice ulcers, blisters or sores around the vulva or vagina. Have used the treatment but symptoms haven’t improved within 7 days.
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