What are Canesten Combi pessary and cream?

Canesten Combi pessary and cream are a combination of treatments designed to relieve the symptoms of thrush while tackling the cause of infection. Ideal for those suffering from itching, redness, swelling, or irritation caused by vaginal thrush.

What is thrush?

Vaginal thrush is a yeast infection which almost every woman will suffer with at one point in their lives. It happens when the natural yeast, or fungus, in your vagina is allowed to grow due to a change in your vaginal environment. This causes an infection, which can make you feel itchy, swollen, and irritated in and around your vagina.

How do Canesten Combi pessary and cream work together to treat thrush?

Canesten Combi pessary and cream both contain the active ingredient clotrimazole, which is an antifungal agent. This means that clotrimazole works to combat the yeast or fungus which causes vaginal thrush while treating the irritation caused by infection.

Can I use this product if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using Canesten or any other medication. Some medications may not be safe for you and your baby during this time. You may be required to use this Canesten pessary without an applicator if you are pregnant, as the applicator could disturb your fragile vaginal wall. Always follow your doctor or pharmacist’s instructions while using this product.

Can I use this product if I am taking other medication?

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using Canesten Pessary and Cream if you are taking any other medication. Some medications can interact when used together, causing unwanted side effects or making your medication less effective. You should specifically tell your doctor before using this product if you are taking tacrolimus or sirolimus, which are used to reduce immune response and prevent rejection after you have had an organ transplant.

Can I use condoms while I am using this product?

You should avoid having vaginal intercourse while you are suffering from thrush, as it could pass the infection to your partner. Also, Canesten Combi pessary and cream can interfere with the effectiveness of condoms, diaphragms and other rubber contraceptives, so be sure to use an alternative method of contraception for five days after using this product if you do choose to have sex.

Can I use this product while I am on my period?

You should not use Canesten Combi during your period, as it may make the treatment less effective. You should also avoid using tampons, intravaginal douches, spermicides or any other vaginal products while using this product.

Does this product have any side effects?

Like all medicines, Canesten Combi pessary and cream can both have side effects, but you may not get them. If you experience any of the symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as:

• Weakness, feeling dizzy or feeling faint
• Swelling of the lips, throat, face, or tongue
• Rash
• Nausea
• Swallowing or breathing problems

Stop using Canesten Combi pessary and cream immediately and seek medical assistance. Other side effects you may experience after using the products in this pack include:

• Bleeding
• Irritation
• Burning
• Redness
• Rash
• Itching
• Swelling
• Blisters
• Discomfort
• Peeling of the skin
• Pain in the abdomen or pelvic area

If you experience these or any other side effects while using this product, stop use and speak to your doctor or pharmacist right away. For more information about reporting side effects, please see the MHRA’s Yellow Card Scheme.

Info Leaflet

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5532.pdf