CLOTRIMAZOLE For infections of the skin: Your dosage is:

Clean the infected area and the ______Other names: Canesten , surrounding skin. Thinly apply and  Clotrimaderm gently massage sufficient cream or What should you do if you FORGET a ointment into the affected area and dose? WHY is this drug prescribed? surrounding skin twice daily. Wash your hands after. If you miss a dose of clotrimazole, take Clotrimazole is an antifungal agent that it as soon as possible. However, if it is works against certain skin infections, Your dosage is: time for your next dose, do not double mouth infections (thrush), and vaginal the dose, just carry on with your regular infections (yeast infections). ______schedule.

HOW should this drug be taken? For vaginal infections: What ADVERSE EFFECTS can this drug cause? What should you do Clotrimazole works when it is in contact If this is the first time you have vaginal about them? with yeast/fungi and when it is applied or itching or discharge, contact your doctor. taken several times a day. Clotrimazole Generally, clotrimazole has few adverse must be used regularly to be effective. Usually, clotrimazole cream, tablets or effects. You may notice local burning ,

suppositories are inserted vaginally at itching or redness where it is applied. For infections of the throat or bedtime to treat yeast infections. When taking clotrimazole by mouth (as a mouth: liquid or tablet) you may have some Fill the supplied applicator with cream, or nausea or vomiting . Dissolve tablets in the mouth over 15 to unwrap the suppository or tablet and put 30 minutes. Do not chew or swallow on the applicator. Lie down on your As with all creams and ointments, skin whole. back, with knees up and apart. Insert the allergies can develop with clotrimazole. applicator into the vagina, and push the Consult a doctor and stop taking this If you are prescribed a suspension, swish plunger to position the drug. Pull out the drug if you develop redness (rash) all the suspension around in the mouth, and applicator, and wash it if you are going to over your body. swallow, or spit, as your doctor or reuse it. Wash your hands. pharmacist has instructed. It is important that you keep your

Wear clean cotton underwear during the doctor appointments so that your Your dosage is: treatment. You may want to use a progress can be followed.

sanitary napkin to protect your clothing or ______bed sheets. You can use clotrimazole

treatment during your menstrual period.

However, avoid tampons during the treatment.

What other PRECAUTIONS should discuss them with your pharmacist, you follow while using this drug? doctor or nurse.

Clotrimazole vaginal preparations should Write questions or concerns down to not be used in the first trimester of ensure they are addressed. pregnancy, unless your doctor believes the benefits outweigh the risks. If you The following pharmacist is available to believe you are pregnant, discuss this answer questions: with your doctor. CLOTRIMAZOLE Pharmacist: ______Although the symptoms of your infection Telephone: ______may improve within one to three days, make sure you continue to take clotrimazole for the full duration prescribed by your doctor. Failure to do MEDICATION so can allow the infection to return. If the infection worsens or persists after the end of your treatment duration, you FACT SHEET should see your doctor so that the infection can be reevaluated.

How should this drug be STORED?

Clotrimazole should be stored at room temperature in a cool (15-30 °C) dry place, protected from light and well out of the reach of children. Ensure that the drug has not expired by checking the expiry date (“EXP”) shown on the outside of the package.

Do not store in your bathroom or kitchen, as heat and moisture may cause the drug to be less active. Reference: Product monograph Canesten  (clotrimazole). Toronto, On, Canada: Bayer Inc., 2008. Prepared by the Ontario HIV Pharmacy Professional Specialty Group, 2003. If you have any questions or concerns Reviewed 2009.

about this drug or if you are Additional medication fact sheets and updates may be found experiencing adverse effects, please at: www.hivclinic.ca