Canesten Cream (Clotrimazole 1%)

Product summary

Canesten Cream is used to treat fungal skin infections such as ringworm, athlete’s foot, fungal nappy rash and fungal sweat rash.

It is also used to relieve irritation of the vulva (external thrush) or the end of the penis, which may be associated with thrush.

The active substance in Canesten Cream is Clotrimazole 1% w/w.

Clotrimazole belongs to a group of medicines called imidazoles and is an antifungal agent which fights the cause of fungal skin infections.

Usage instructions:

Canesten Cream should be applied thinly and evenly to the affected areas two or three times daily and rubbed in gently.

A strip of cream (0.5 cm long) is enough to treat an area about the size of the hand.

The duration of the treatment depends upon the type of infection.

Generally, a minimum of two weeks is required, although up to four weeks may be necessary.

If you have athlete’s foot, it may help to use an antifungal dusting powder as well. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to recommend one.

Warnings and restrictions

Important information about some of the ingredients:

This product contains cetostearyl alcohol, which may cause local skin irritation (e.g.rash, itching or redness).

Special precautions: As with other creams, Canesten Cream may reduce the effectiveness of rubber contraceptives, such as condoms or diaphragms.

Consequently, if you are using this cream on the vulva or penis, you should use alternative contraception for at least five days after using this product.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding:

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or trying for a baby, tell your doctor or midwife before using Canesten Cream.

If you have informed your doctor or midwife already, follow his/her instructions carefully.

Other cautions:

• Do not use Canesten Cream if you (or your baby if treating nappy rash) are allergic (hypersensitive) to clotrimazole or any of the other ingredients of Canesten Cream, including cetostearyl alcohol.
• Do not use to treat nail or scalp infections.

Taking other medicines

This product is unlikely to interact with other medication. However, please speak to your pharmacist or doctor if you are using any other anti-fungal or skin treatments.