Description
Canesten (clotrimazole) Cream is used to treat fungal infections of the skin. These include ringworm, athlete's foot, fungal nappy rash, and fungal sweat rash.
Canesten Cream is also used to treat irritation of the vulva (external thrush) or the end of the penis (may also be associated with thrush).
Fact Table |
Formula |
C22H17ClN2 |
License |
US FDA |
Bioavailability |
Poor |
Legal status |
US: OTC (topical), Rx-only (by mouth) |
Chemical Name |
Clotrimazole |
Elimination half-life |
2 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
1% |
Pregnancy |
Safe |
Brands |
Canesten |
Protein binding |
90% |
PubChem CID |
2812 |
MedlinePlus |
a682753 |
ChEBI |
3764 |
ATC code |
A01AB18 |
DrugBank |
DB00257 |
KEGG |
D00282 |
Routes of administration |
Topical |
Directions
Carefully read and follow the instructions that come with the Canesten Cream prescription. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Canesten Cream is available in a tube and is for topical use on the skin only. Do not get the medication in your mouth or eyes.
If you are using Canesten Cream on your feet, make sure your feet are washed and dried completely before using the cream.
Apply a thin, even layer to the affected area(s) two or three times a day. Gently rub it in.
Canesten Cream may be used for up to 4 weeks, but the duration depends on the type of infection.
An improvement should be experienced within a few days of using Canesten Cream; however, redness and scaling may take longer to go away. Contact your doctor if symptoms do not go away.
Ingredients
The active ingredient contained in Canesten Cream is clotrimazole, an antifungal. Inactive ingredients include benzyl alcohol, polysorbate 60, sorbitan stearate, cetyl palmitate, cetostearyl alcohol, octyldodecanol, and purified water.
Contraindications
Do not use Canesten Cream if you are allergic to clotrimazole or any of the other ingredients contained in Canesten Cream.
Do not use Canesten Cream to treat nail or scalp infections.
Cautions
- Before you begin using Canesten Cream to treat your fungal skin infection, talk to your doctor about:
- All the medications you take, including other creams or ointments
- Your allergies
- Your health problems
- Your pregnancy or breastfeeding status
- Avoid smoking or going around open flames with the use of Canesten Cream. Contact of the cream with flames is a fire hazard and can put you at risk for severe burns. Washing clothing and bedding may remove some of the product but not all of it.
- Rubber condoms or diaphragms may not work as well with the use of Canesten Cream. Alternative birth control methods should be used for at least 5 days after using the cream if you are using it to treat vulva or penile irritation.
Side Effects
Side effects that may occur with the use of Canesten Cream include skin itching, rash, blisters, burning, discomfort, swelling, irritation, redness, or peeling.
Some people may be allergic to Caneseten Cream and exhibit severe allergic reactions including a rash, trouble breathing or swallowing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, dizziness, nausea, or rapid heartbeat. Seek emergency care immediately if you experience these effects.
Reference:
Canesten Cream (clotrimazole) 1% w/w. Reading, RG2 6AD, UK: Bayer plc; 2020.
About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)
Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 2376