Uses
Vaginal clotrimazole is used to treat vaginal yeast infections in adults and children 12 years of age and older. Clotrimazole is in a class of antifungal medications called imidazoles. It works by stopping the growth of fungi that cause infection.
Side Effects Of Clotrimazole Vaginal
Clotrimazole may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- increased burning, itching, or irritation of the vagina
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop using clotrimazole and call your doctor immediately:
- rash
- hives
- stomach pain
- fever
- chills
- nausea
- vomiting
- foul-smelling vaginal discharge
Warnings & Precautions
Before using vaginal clotrimazole:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to clotrimazole, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in clotrimazole vaginal cream. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor if you have the lower stomach, back, or shoulder pain. fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge; been exposed to or have human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS); or have had frequent vaginal yeast infections (once a month or 3 or more infections in 6 months).
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while using clotrimazole, call your doctor.
- you should know that condoms and diaphragms may be weakened if they are used during your treatment with vaginal clotrimazole. Because of this, these devices may not be effective at preventing pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases if you use them during your treatment.
Dosage Of Clotrimazole Vaginal
Vaginal clotrimazole comes as a cream to be inserted into the vagina. It also may be applied to the skin around the outside of the vagina. The cream is inserted into the vagina once a day at bedtime for 3 or 7 days in a row, depending on the product instructions. The cream is used twice a day for up to 7 days around the outside of the vagina. Follow the directions on the package or your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use clotrimazole exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than directed on the package or prescribed by your doctor.
Vaginal clotrimazole is available without a prescription (over the counter). If this is the first time you have had vaginal itching and discomfort, talk to a doctor before using clotrimazole. If a doctor has told you before that you had a yeast infection and you have the same symptoms again, use the vaginal cream as directed on the package.
Do not have vaginal intercourse or use other vaginal products (such as tampons, douches, or spermicides) during your treatment.
You should begin to feel better during the first three days of treatment with clotrimazole. If your symptoms do not improve or get worse, call your doctor.
To apply the clotrimazole cream to the outside area around the vagina, use your finger to apply a small amount of cream to the affected area of the skin.
To insert the clotrimazole cream vaginally, read the instructions provided with the medication and follow these steps:
- Fill the special applicator that comes with the cream to the level indicated.
- Lie on your back with your knees drawn upward and spread apart or standing with your feet far apart and knees bent.
- Gently insert the applicator into the vagina, and push the plunger to release the medication.
- Withdraw the applicator.
- Discard the applicator if it is disposable. If the applicator is reusable, pull it apart and clean it with soap and warm water after each use.
- Wash your hands promptly to avoid spreading the infection.
- The dose should be applied when you lie down to go to bed. It works best if you do not get up again after applying it except to wash your hands. You may wish to wear a sanitary napkin while using the vaginal cream to protect your clothing against stains. Continue using clotrimazole vaginal cream even if you get your period during treatment.
Other
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about clotrimazole.
If you still have symptoms of infection 7 days after starting treatment with clotrimazole, call your doctor.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Source
All information has been provided courtesy of MedLinePlus from the National Library of Medicine and from the FDA.
