Canesten is one brand name for the drug clotrimazole for use against fungal infections. Infections caused by an overgrowth of the organism candida albicans are a particularly common target of Canesten, although clotrimazole can also destroy other fungal pathogens. Canesten is available as a topical cream, pump spray solution or vaginal suppository.
Purpose
Canesten is used to treat fungal skin infections and vaginal yeast infections. Fungal skin infections may take the form of sweat rash, in which a fungus grows on an area of skin with trapped perspiration, or athlete's foot, which can appear on the toes, soles or side of the foot. Vaginal yeast infections develop in the vaginal area when candida albicans, a normal inhabitant of the vaginal tract, overgrows.
Branding/Alternatives
The brand Canesten is sold under this name in Canada, Europe, Korea, Indonesia, China, New Zealand, Australia, Mexico, Chile, Brazil, Colombia and Argentina. In the U.S., clotrimazole is not sold as Canesten, but is available as Clotrim Antifungal, Cruex Prescription Strength, Lotrimin and Mycelex in topical form and as Femcare, Gyne-Lotrimin and Mycelex-G in vaginal suppository form.
Usage
The topical form of Canesten should be applied onto the skin and gently rubbed into the skin. The treated area should not be covered with any type of airtight bandage or covering. The vaginal treatment is inserted into the vagina as a tablet or cream using an applicator supplied by the manufacturer. Any treatment with Canesten should be continued through the entire course of treatment, even if the symptoms disappear before the course is completed. Stopping early may result in a return of symptoms and the development of resistant forms of fungus that may cease responding to Canesten.
Interactions
Canesten can interact with other medications including dihydroergotamine, ergonovine, ergotamine and fentanyl. Someone who plans on using Canesten should inform her doctor in order to avoid dangerous interactions. Vaginal preparations of Canesten may interfere with the effectiveness of some forms of birth control, such as condoms, spermicides and diaphragms.
Side Effects
Some rare side effects may occur with Canesten use. For topical Canesten users, skin irritation, redness, swelling, blistering, itching or hives are possible side effects. Reactions to vaginal Canesten may include vaginal irritation, itching or redness. Some women also experience bloating or cramps after using this product. Vaginal bleeding, blistering or hives may be signs of a serious reaction and should be reported to a doctor if they occur.
Considerations
While Canesten and other clotrimazole preparations are available over the counter, people who intend to use them for the first time should talk to a doctor to determine whether the use of this drug is an appropriate treatment. Attempting to self-diagnose a yeast or fungal infection may be difficult, since some other types of infections may have similar symptoms. Canesten will not help get rid of a bacterial infection and may not be the most effective choice for some types of fungal infections. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should always consult a doctor before using Canesten.
