Canesten Cream

Composition of Canesten Cream

Canesten Cream contains Clotrimazole 1% w/w cream. It belongs to the Imidazole antifungal (topical) class of medicines.

Uses of Canesten Cream

• Treatment of superficial fungal skin infections such as ringworm (tinea corporis)
• athlete’s foot (tinea pedis)
• jock itch (tinea cruris)
• cutaneous candidiasis
• and pityriasis (tinea) versicolor.

Key benefits

• Relieves itching and redness due to fungal infection
• Treats ringworm/athlete’s foot/jock itch
• Controls growth of Candida on skin
• Helps clear scaling and discomfort
• Reduces recurrence when used for full course

How Canesten Cream works

Clotrimazole is an imidazole antifungal that inhibits synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of the fungal cell membrane. This damages the membrane, leading to leakage of cell contents and death/inhibition of fungal growth.

How to take Canesten Cream

For external use only. Clean and dry the affected area, then apply a thin layer to the affected skin (and surrounding area) 2–3 times daily or as directed by a doctor. Continue for the full course even if symptoms improve; wash hands after application (unless treating hands). Avoid contact with eyes, mouth and broken skin.

Take it exactly as your doctor prescribed. Do not change the dose or stop early on your own.

Missed dose and overdose

If you miss a dose

Apply it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for the next application, skip the missed one — applying extra does not make up for it.

If you take too much

An overdose of this medicine is unlikely from skin use; swallowing the preparation may cause stomach upset. Do not wait for symptoms to appear — go to the nearest emergency department and take the pack or strip with you.

Side effects of Canesten Cream

Most side effects of Canesten are mild and settle as the body adjusts. Reported side effects include:

• Burning sensation
• stinging
• itching
• redness
• irritation
• peeling
• dryness
• rash

Stop the medicine and seek help immediately for a rash, swelling of the face or lips, wheezing or difficulty breathing. Tell your doctor about any side effect that persists or worries you.

Safety advice for Canesten Cream

Warnings and precautions

For external use only. Do not use in eyes, inside mouth/vagina unless specifically prescribed for that use, or on extensively broken/oozing skin. Stop and consult a doctor if severe irritation/allergic reaction occurs or if no improvement after 2 weeks (or symptoms worsen). Keep area clean and dry; avoid sharing towels/clothing. Use with caution in children or on large areas—seek medical advice.

Do not take Canesten if

Not for anyone with a known allergy to this medicine or to any ingredient in the pack. For external use only. Not for use in the eyes.

Interactions with other medicines

No significant systemic drug interactions expected with topical clotrimazole; avoid simultaneous use with other topical products on the same area unless advised (may affect absorption/irritation).

How to store Canesten Cream

Store at room temperature (below 25°C), protected from light and moisture. Keep cap tightly closed. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.

Expert advice for Canesten Cream

Keep the area clean and completely dry — fungus thrives in moisture and sweat. Wear loose cotton clothing, change it daily, and wash clothes and towels in hot water. Do not share towels, and treat affected family members at the same time.

Manufacturer and class

Manufacturer:

PIRAMAL HEALTHCARE

Therapeutic class:

Antifungal

Drug class:

Imidazole antifungal (topical)