Canesten (Clotrimazole)

Description

Canesten (clotrimazole) Cream is used to treat fungal infections of the skin, including ringworm, athlete's foot, fungal nappy rash, and fungal sweat rash. 

Canesten Cream can also be used to treat irritation of the vulva (external thrush) or the end of the penis (may also be associated with thrush).

Directions

The instructions that come with your Canesten Cream prescription should be read and followed carefully. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.

Canesten Cream comes in a tube and is to be used topically on the skin only. Avoid contact with the medication with your mouth or eyes. 

If Canesten Cream will be used on the feet, be sure to thoroughly wash and dry your feet before application.

Gently rub in the cream after applying a thin, even layer to the affected area(s). Repeat two or three times daily.

The amount of time using Canesten Cream depends on the type of infection. It may be used for up to 4 weeks.

Within a few days of using Canesten Cream, you should experience an improvement, but redness and scaling may take longer to go away. If your symptoms do not go away, talk to your doctor. 

Ingredients

Clotrimazole, an antifungal, is the active ingredient contained in Canesten Cream. Benzyl alcohol, polysorbate 60, sorbitan stearate, cetyl palmitate, cetostearyl alcohol, octyldodecanol, and purified water are the inactive ingredients.

Contraindications

Avoid using Canesten Cream if you have an allergy to clotrimazole or any of the other ingredients contained in Canesten Cream.

Canesten Cream should not be used to treat nail or scalp infections.

Cautions

• Before starting treatment with Canesten Cream, tell your doctor:
• If you use any medications, including other creams or ointments
• About any allergies you have
• If you have any health conditions
• If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• If you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed
• While using Canesten Cream, avoid going around open flames and/or smoking. Severe burns can occur if the cream comes in contact with fire. Washing clothing and bedding may remove some of the product but not all of it.
• The effectiveness of rubber condoms or diaphragms may be decreased by Canesten Cream. If you are using it to treat vulva or penile irritation, alternative birth control methods should be used for at least 5 days after using the cream.

Side Effects

Skin itching, rash, blisters, burning, discomfort, swelling, irritation, redness, or peeling are some side effects associated with the use of Canesten Cream. 

Some people may be allergic to Caneseten Cream and exhibit severe allergic reactions including a rash, trouble breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, dizziness, nausea, or rapid heartbeat. If you experience any of these allergic reactions, immediately seek medical attention. 

Reference:

Canesten Cream (clotrimazole) 1% w/w. Reading, RG2 6AD, UK: Bayer plc;

About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)

Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....