Clotrimazole (pessary)

Clotrimazole pessaries are used to treat vaginal thrush (also known as vulvovaginal candidiasis). Vaginal thrush is caused by an overgrowth of a fungus known as Candida albicans. This infection causes symptoms such as itching, swelling and a thick, white odourless discharge. This medication will prevent the growth of the fungus and clear the infection.

• Insert one pessary into your vagina as deeply as possible, in a lying position in the evening, just before bedtime.
• Some products only require a one-night dose, whereas others require you to insert a pessary for 3 to 6 nights consecutively. Complete the entire course.
• Do not stop using your medication without checking with your healthcare professional. Stopping too soon may cause the infection to come back.
• Avoid vaginal intercourse during the period of treatment, until the symptoms are fully cleared.
• You may consider using a panty liner during the duration of treatment to absorb any discharge.
• Do not use tampons, intravaginal douches, spermicides or other products in the vagina when you are using this medication.
• The treatment is not to be carried out during menstruation, as it may be less effective.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue normally. Do not use two doses or extra medication to make up for the missed dose.

• Wash your hands before and after handling the pessary
• Inform your healthcare professional if:
  • You are allergic to Clotrimazole or any other ingredients used in the medication
  • You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding
  • You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies
  • You have abnormal vaginal bleeding
  • You have vaginal discharge that is either green, yellow, or has a fishy smell
  • Your symptoms are different from previous vaginal thrush infections
  • You had 4 or more cases of vaginal thrush within the last year
  • Your symptoms come back in less than 2 months
  • You previously had a sexually transmitted infection
  • You have a weakened immune system (due to illness or medication)
  • You have diabetes 
  • You continue to have symptoms 3 days after your last dose of the medication

Mild stinging, itching and redness may occur at the affected area. 

• These side effects are usually mild and go away after some time. However, if the symptoms are bothersome, do not go away or become worse, stop the medication and consult your healthcare professional.

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop the medication and see your doctor immediately.

Check with your healthcare professional if other topical medications may be applied together with this medication.

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children.

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing it into the rubbish chute or bin.