Clotrimazole Pessary 500mg with Applicator (Brand May Vary)

What are clotrimazole pessaries?

Clotrimazole pessaries are a vaginal thrush treatment which can get rid of your symptoms in just 1 - 2 days. Working quickly to target the source of thrush, this product can help to reduce itching and irritation fast, helping you to feel more comfortable. This product comes with an applicator which makes inserting the pessary as simple as inserting a tampon, and just one application before bed could be all you’ll need to treat your thrush symptoms.

What is thrush?

Thrush is a common yeast infection which can affect your vagina, penis, or mouth. It’s caused by a type of yeast called candida, which thrives when your natural pH balance is disturbed. Although thrush is usually harmless and easily treated, it can be very uncomfortable until the infection has passed. Vaginal thrush infections are usually quite easy to identify, as they come with a list of tell-tale symptoms that you’ll notice quickly, including:

• A white cottage cheese-like discharge

• Itching, redness or irritation around the vagina

• Stinging, burning, or discomfort when you pee

How will a clotrimazole pessary treat my yeast infection?

These pessaries contain 500mg of an antifungal ingredient called clotrimazole, which has been proven to be a very effective treatment for thrush. It helps to kill the candida yeast that causes thrush, treating the infection at its source for fast results. This helps to restore your vaginas natural pH balance, usually relieving most of your symptoms in just 1 - 2 days.

Can pessaries be used to treat any other types of thrush?

Pessaries are inserted into the vagina and, therefore, can only be used to treat vaginal thrush. If you have another type of thrush, such as oral or penile thrush, there are other treatments such as antifungal creams and tablets which may be more suitable for you. If you’re unsure which treatment you should use, always ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Can I use this treatment if I’m pregnant?

If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using this product. You may still be able to use clotrimazole pessaries during your pregnancy, but your doctor or pharmacist may recommend inserting the pessary without using the applicator.

Can I have sex while using this product?

We recommend avoiding sex while you have vaginal thrush, as it can be passed to your partner through sexual intercourse. Clotrimazole pessaries can also interfere with rubber contraceptives, such as condoms or diaphragms, making them less effective. If you do choose to have sex while using this product, you should use another form of contraception for at least 5 days after inserting the pessary.

Can I use a pessary while I’m on my period?

You should not use this clotrimazole pessary while you’re on your period. It can affect how the treatment works, making it less effective at treating your yeast infection.We’d recommend waiting until the end of your period before using this treatment, or asking your pharmacist whether a different treatment would be more effective right away. You should not use tampons or any other vaginal products while using a clotrimazole pessary.

Can I take this product if I’m taking other medication?

If you’re taking any other medication, including herbal remedies or medicines you obtained wihtout a prescription, you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using a clotrimazole pessary. This especially applies if you are already taking:

• Other medications to treat fungal infections, e.g. amphotericin, nystatin

• Medicines which reduce your body’s immunity after recieving an organ transplant, e.g. tacrolimus

How to use this product

Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before using this product. Insert one clotrimazole pessary into your vagina before you go to bed at night. Place the pessary tablet into the end of the applicator provided and slowly insert the applicator into your vagina in the same way you would a tampon. You may find it easier to insert the applicator if you lie on your back with your legs slightly bent. Once the applicator is in place, slowly and carefully press down on the plunger to insert the pessary into your vagina. Remove the applicator and dispose of it. You will usually only need to use one pessary, but if you find that your symptoms haven’t improved within 7 days then you may need to repeat the treatment.

When should this product not be used?

Clotrimazole pessaries should not be used in children under the age of 16 or adults over 60 unless advised to do so by a doctor. Do not use this product if you are allergic to clotrimazole, any other imidazoles, other vaginal antifungal products, or any of the other listed ingredients. Do not use this product if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Irregular vaginal bleeding

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding or blood stained discharge

• Ulcers, blisters, or sores on your vagina or vulva

• Lower abdominal pain (stomach pain)

• Pain when peeing

• Redness, irritation, or swelling after using the treatment

• Fever or chills

• Feeling sick or being sick

• Diarrhoea

• Foul smelling vaginal discharge

Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using this product if you:

• Are experiencing thrush symptoms for the first time

• Have had thrush more than twice in 6 months

• Have a previous history of STDs or have been exposed to an STD

• Think you may be pregnant

Does clotrimazole have any side effects?

Like all medications, clotrimazole can have side effects, although not everyone will experience them. If you experience any of the following serious side effects you should seek immediate medical assistance:

• Allergic reactions, e.g. swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, fever, difficulty breathing or swallowing, dizziness, possible fainting, low blood pressure, skin rashes with or without wheals

• Intolerable burning sensation or irritation

Other side effects you may experience include:

• Mild burning or irritation immediately after use

• Peeling

• Severe itching

• Rashes

• Swelling

• Discomfort, burning sensation, irritation, pelvic pain

• Vaginal bleeding

• Stomach pain

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

How to store this product

Store in a cool, dry place which is below 25 degrees C. Do not use this product if the expiry date printed on the original packaging has passed. Keep out of sight and reach of children.