Clotrimazole - Vaginal

Clotrimazole is used to treat vaginal yeast infection (a fungal infection that causes burning, itching, and redness in the vagina, and changes in vaginal discharge).

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 vaginal tablet, pessary, or cream.

If you have been given a vaginal tablet or pessary, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Remove the wrapper from the tablet or pessary and the applicator, if this is given.
3. If an applicator is supplied, fix the tablet or 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 tablet or pessary into the vagina, either with your fingers or the applicator.
6. Insert only as far as it will comfortably go.
7. If you are using an applicator, press the plunger to release the pessary. Remove the applicator and throw it away.
8. Wash your hands thoroughly after application.

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 from the bottom of the tube to get the prescribed amount of cream into the applicator. Use the measurement markings on the applicator to measure the correct dose.
5. Unscrew the applicator.
6. Lie on your back with both knees bent and legs apart.
7. Hold the applicator in the middle portion.
8. Gently insert the applicator into the vagina. Insert only as far as it will comfortably go.
9. Slowly press the applicator plunger until it stops. This will deposit the medication into the vagina.
10. Gently withdraw the applicator.
11. Wash your hands thoroughly after application.

Avoid contact of this medicine with your eyes and mouth. Rinse immediately with water if it 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 course of treatment depending on your response to the medication.

Use Clotrimazole at regular intervals. Do not skip any doses. You must complete the entire course of this medicine. If you don't, the infection will not be properly controlled.

Use 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 (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine or any of its ingredients.

Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:

• history of sexually transmitted disease (STD) or have been exposed to a partner with STD
• have had more than 2 yeast infections in the last 6 months
• abnormal vaginal bleeding or blood-stained discharge
• irregular vaginal bleeding
• ulcers, blisters or sores in the vagina or vulva
• lower abdominal pain
• pain or difficulty passing urine
• fever or chills
• diarrhoea
• nausea or vomiting
• foul-smelling vaginal discharge

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

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

Do not use this medicine during your menstrual period, as it may be washed out by the menstrual flow.

Avoid vaginal intercourse while you have a yeast infection and during Clotrimazole treatment. This is because your partner could become infected as well.

You may wish to discuss alternative birth control methods with your doctor, as Clotrimazole may damage latex or rubber barrier contraceptives (e.g. condoms or diaphragms).

Do not use tampons, vaginal douches, spermicides (a form of contraceptive), or other vaginal products during treatment with this medicine.

Clotrimazole may cause any of the following side effects: stomach pain, nausea, itchy skin, vaginal peeling, and discomfort, redness, burning sensation, irritation, or pain in the vagina or vulva.

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 or using medicines used in organ transplants or certain immune disorders such as tacrolimus and 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.

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

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.