Canesten V 1% Cream

Canesten V 1% Cream is a topical antifungal cream from Bayer, containing clotrimazole 1% w/w, an imidazole-class antifungal formulated specifically for vaginal and external vulval application. It is supplied as a 10g tube together with an applicator for inserting the cream into the vagina.

Canesten V 1% Cream is a distinct product from the skin-application Canesten Cream (used on external body skin for conditions such as ringworm or athlete’s foot) even though both share the Canesten brand and the same active ingredient, because Canesten V is formulated and packaged specifically for vaginal use. It is also a separate product from the Candid range (Glenmark), which are clotrimazole formulations intended for skin application rather than vaginal use.

Canesten V 1% Cream is an OTC (Over-the-Counter) product in Malaysia, available without needing a doctor’s prescription at pharmacies and online, including through DoctorOnCall.

• Wash and dry your hands before use.
• Attach the applicator to the tube, fill it with cream as directed on the pack, then insert it into the vagina, preferably at night, and press the plunger to release the cream.
• Apply any remaining cream on the applicator or tube to the external vulval area if needed, gently massaging it in.
• Follow the number of consecutive nights of use printed on the pack insert, and complete the full course even if symptoms appear to improve earlier.
• Wash the applicator with warm, soapy water after each use and dry it thoroughly before storing.
• Avoid using tampons, vaginal douches, or spermicidal products during the treatment course.

For adult women, use one applicator-full of cream inserted vaginally, generally once daily at night, for the number of consecutive nights stated on the pack insert. If the cream is also applied to the external vulval area, apply a small amount two to three times a day for as long as external itching or irritation persists, up to the maximum course length on the label. If symptoms have not improved within 7 days of finishing the course, or if this is the first time symptoms have occurred, stop self-treating and see a doctor or pharmacist for assessment.

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

• Known hypersensitivity to clotrimazole, other imidazole antifungals, or any excipient in this formulation.

• Clotrimazole cream can weaken the latex in condoms and diaphragms, reducing their reliability for contraception and infection prevention; use alternative protection during treatment and for at least 5 days afterward, or as advised by a pharmacist.
• No clinically significant food interactions are known, as the cream acts locally when applied vaginally or externally rather than being taken by mouth.
• Tell your pharmacist about any other vaginal products, such as spermicides, douches, or other vaginal medicines, that you are using at the same time.

• Wash and dry hands before and after each application.
• Use the applicator provided, or apply with clean fingers to the external area as directed on the pack.
• Wear loose, breathable cotton underwear during the treatment course.
• Complete the full course even if you feel better partway through.
• Store the tube tightly closed at room temperature, away from direct heat and sunlight.
• Check the expiry date on the packaging before each use.

Precautions: For vaginal and external vulval use only; this product is not for internal use beyond the vaginal application described on the pack, and must not be swallowed or applied to the eyes. If pregnant, use the applicator only on the advice of a doctor or pharmacist — the cream may still be applied externally, or inserted using fingers rather than the applicator, unless a doctor advises otherwise. This product may be used while breastfeeding; check with a pharmacist first. Sexual partners are not usually treated unless a partner has their own symptoms, in which case they should see a doctor or pharmacist. If a menstrual period starts during the treatment course, continue treatment and use sanitary towels rather than tampons, as tampons can absorb the cream.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: See a doctor or pharmacist if this is the first time these symptoms have occurred, if you are under 16 or over 60 years of age, if symptoms have not improved within 7 days of completing the course, if symptoms return more than twice in 6 months, or if you notice unusual vaginal bleeding, sores, ulcers, a strong odour, or lower abdominal pain, as these may indicate a condition that needs medical assessment.