Clotrimazole - Vaginal

Clotrimazole is used to treat fungal infections of the vagina.

This medicine may be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.

Use Clotrimazole exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.

This medicine is available as a pessary or as a vaginal cream.

It is best to use this medicine at bedtime (before going to sleep at night). Try to use it at the same time each day.

Clotrimazole pessary and cream are to be inserted into the vagina. Do not use it in any other way.

If you have been given the cream, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Open the tube by puncturing the metal seal with the pointed tip of the cap.
3. Disposable applicators are provided to help you apply the cream into the vagina. Screw the end of the applicator securely onto the tube.
4. Slowly squeeze the tube such that the medication fills the applicator completely.
5. The applicator plunger will stop moving once the applicator is full. Do not overfill by pushing it past this point.
6. Unscrew the applicator.
7. Lie on your back with both knees bent and legs apart.
8. Hold the applicator at the middle portion.
9. Gently insert the applicator into the vagina. Insert only as far as it will comfortably go.
10. Slowly press the applicator plunger until it stops. This will deposit the medication into the vagina.
11. Gently withdraw the applicator.
12. Wash your hands after application.

If you have been given the pessary, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Remove the wrapper from the pessary (and the applicator, if available).
3. If an applicator is supplied, fix the pessary into the hole at the end of the applicator.
4. Lie on your back with both knees bent and legs apart.
5. Gently insert the pessary into the vagina, either using your fingers or the applicator. Insert only as far as it will comfortably go.
6. If you are using an applicator, press the plunger to release the pessary then gently remove the applicator.
7. Wash your hands after application.

Avoid any direct contact of Clotrimazole cream with your eyes or mouth. Rinse immediately with water if this medicine accidentally gets into your eyes or mouth. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyes.

The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the severity of your infection.

You must complete the entire course of medicine. If you don’t, the infection will not be properly controlled.

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to use your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.

Do not use Clotrimazole if you ever had an allergic reaction (rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine.

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Maintain good hygiene as this is important in managing fungal infections.

You may discuss alternative birth control methods with your doctor as Clotrimazole may damage the latex, or certain “barrier” method contraceptives (e.g. condoms, diaphragm).

You should avoid the use of vaginal products (e.g. tampons, douches) and do not engage in sexual contact until your doctor certifies that you are cleared from the infection.

Clotrimazole may cause any of the following side effects: vaginal irritation, pain, swelling, itching or burning sensation.

If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor immediately. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking medicines used in organ transplant or certain immune disorders (e.g. tacrolimus, sirolimus).

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Avoid alcohol.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.