Canesten Thrush Soft Gel Pessary - 500mg

Canesten Pessary is a simple treatment for the cause of thrush that can relieve your symptoms within three days. If you’re suffering from pain, discomfort, and itching in your vagina caused by thrush, Canesten Pessary can provide fast relief.

Can I use this product if I’m on my period?
You should not use this Canesten Pessary if you are on your period, as it can make this medication less effective. You should also avoid using tampons, douches, spermicides or other vaginal products while you are using this medication.

Can I use this product if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
You should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, so you can be sure that Canesten is the best choice for you at this time. If a medical professional tells you that you can use this product, they may give you alternative instructions, which you should follow carefully. For example, they may ask you to use this pessary without an applicator if you are pregnant.

Can I use this product if I’m taking other medication?
You should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using this product if you are taking any other medication, including those obtained without a prescription. Some medications can interact when used together, causing side effects or making your medication less effective. You should tell your doctor before using this product if you are taking sirolimus or tacrolimus, which are used to reduce immune system response and reduce the chances of rejection after an organ transplant.

Can I use Canesten Pessary if I’m using a condom during sex?
You should avoid having vaginal sex while you have thrush and while you are using this product, as your partner could also become infected. However, if you do choose to have sex, be aware that this product can reduce the effectiveness of rubber contraceptives like condoms or diaphragms. You should use an alternative method of contraception for at least 5 days after using this product.

How to use Canesten Pessary
Remove the applicator from the packaging and pull out the plunger until it stops. Remove the pessary from its foil packaging and insert into the applicator, fix into place with a slight twist. Insert the applicator as deep as is comfortable into your vagina, in the same way, you would insert a tampon, then press the plunger until it stops. This inserts the Canesten Pessary into your vagina. Remove the applicator and dispose of it properly.

Why do I need to answer questions to buy this product?
You do not need a prescription for Canesten pessary, however, you will be asked to complete a short medical questionnaire by your pharmacist before we can take your order. This includes some simple questions that all pharmacies legally are required to ask before supplying this kind of product. This helps our pharmacy team to be sure that Canesten pessary is the best choice for you.

When should Canesten Pessary not be used?
Canesten Pessary should not be used by those under the age of 16 or those over the age of 60. Do not use Canesten Pessary if you are allergic to clotrimazole, other Canesten products, other vaginal antifungal products, or any of the other listed ingredients. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using this product if you’re unsure whether you have thrush, have had thrush more than twice in six months, or if you or your partner have ever had a sexually transmitted disease. Canesten Pessary is not suitable for use on scalp or nail infections. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using this product if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

Irregular vaginal bleeding
Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Blood-stained vaginal discharge
Ulcers, blisters, or sores on the vagina or vulva
Lower abdominal pain
Pain while urinating
Difficulty passing urine
Fever or chills
Feeling sick
Vomiting
Diarrhoea
A foul-smelling discharge from the vagina

Does this product have side effects?
As with all medicines, Canesten Pessary can have side effects although not everyone gets them. When you use this product, you may experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, including:

Rash
Swelling of the lips, throat, face, or tongue
Nausea
Weakness, feeling dizzy or feeling faint
Swallowing or breathing problems

If you experience any of these side effects while using Canesten Pessary, stop using this product and seek medical help immediately. Other common side effects of this product include:

Itching
Rash
Swelling
Redness
Discomfort
Burning
Irritation
Vaginal peeling or bleeding
Pain in the abdomen or pelvic area
If you experience these or any other side effects, stop use and speak to your doctor or Chemist 4 U pharmacist right away. For more information about reporting side effects of medication, please see the MHRA’s Yellow Card Scheme.

Consult your doctor before use if you are taking any other medicines or if you have a health condition not mentioned in the patient information leaflet.

Always read the patient information leaflet before use.

May cause dizziness. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how your body reacts to this treatment.

Do not take more than one tablet in any 24 hours.

This medicine must not be taken by women.

For further information on our medication restrictions policy, please click here

If you are concerned about addiction of 'over the counter' medication we urge you to visit the below links for professional help and advice

• NHS - Help & Advice on Drug Addiction
• Talk To Frank - Drug Addiction Help & Support