Clotrimazole vaginal tablets or cream

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What are clotrimazole vaginal tablets or cream?

CLOTRIMAZOLE (Gyne-Lotrimin®, Gynix(TM), Mycelex-G®, Trivagizole®) is an antifungal agent used to treat vaginal yeast infections. Generic clotrimazole vaginal tablets and cream are available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• diabetes mellitus
• immunosuppression, recent chemotherapy treatments, or infection with the human immunodeficiency ( HIV) virus
• other chronic health condition
• an unusual or allergic reaction to clotrimazole, other medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Clotrimazole vaginal tablets are only for use in the vagina. Clotrimazole vaginal cream may be used in the vagina and may also be applied to the external areas of skin around the vagina to decrease itching and discomfort. Do not take by mouth.

Wash hands before and after use. Read package directions carefully before using. If using vaginal tablets, insert one tablet in the applicator tip. If using the vaginal cream, screw the applicator onto the end of the tube and squeeze the tube to fill the applicator; remove the applicator from the tube OR, if using individually packaged or filled applicators, remove the outer covering. Lie on your back. Gently insert the applicator tip high in the vagina and push the plunger to release the tablet or cream into the vagina; gently remove the applicator. Wash the applicator well with warm water and soap. Use at regular intervals as directed by the package or your health care professional. Finish the full course of treatment even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using this medicine if your menstrual period starts during the time of treatment.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Vaginal products should not be used without the prescription of a health care professional in girls under 12 years old. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with clotrimazole?

• spermicides

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are using, including non-prescription medicines. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking clotrimazole?

Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve after 3 days. Do not self-medicate for more than one week. If you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, contact your prescriber prior to using non-prescription products; infections during pregnancy require examination by your health care professional.

If you develop abdominal pain, a fever > 100°F, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge, contact your prescriber or health care professional. Do not self-treat if you have these symptoms. These symptoms are signs of a more serious infection and you will need examined by a qualified health care professional.

It is better not to have sex until you have finished your treatment. Do not rely on condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps or other "barrier" devices to prevent pregnancy. Clotrimazole may damage these devices. Clotrimazole can also interfere with the proper action of spermicides. Clotrimazole can cause failure of these methods to prevent pregnancy.

If your partner(s) has itching or redness of the genitals, they should see a health care professional about these symptoms. They may also need evaluation and treatment.

Your clothing may get soiled if you have a vaginal discharge. You can wear a sanitary napkin; do not use tampons. Tampons can absorb clotrimazole and decrease the efficacy of the medication. If possible, wear freshly washed cotton, not synthetic, panties.

What side effects may I notice from using clotrimazole?

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• vaginal irritation, itching or burning
• pain or difficulty passing urine

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature below 30 degrees C (86 degrees F); do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.