Canesten Thrush External Cream 20g

"Canesten Thrush External Cream is a 2% w/w clotrimazole treatment typically prescribed to manage the external irritation, itching and swelling associated with a vaginal thrush infection (candidal vulvitis). While it effectively addresses these uncomfortable external symptoms, it is frequently used alongside internal treatments to ensure the underlying yeast infection is fully managed. It is also an appropriate choice for treating a male partner's penis to prevent the cycle of re-infection." - Rachael Clarke MRCPharm MFRPSI FRSPH (GPHC Number: 2061366)

You can buy Canesten Thrush External Cream 20g through our streamlined online consultation process which is reviewed by a registered prescriber. Once your consultation is approved, your medication is dispensed and shipped directly from our pharmacy (GPHC Number: 9011560) in discreet packaging to ensure your privacy. This professional service allows you to access effective relief for thrush without needing to visit a GP in person.

The price of Canesten Thrush External Cream at Mail my Meds reflects our commitment to providing affordable healthcare and includes the cost of your online clinical review. While prices can fluctuate based on pharmaceutical supply chains, we aim to offer competitive rates for all our antifungal medications to ensure you receive value alongside professional care.

We offer various delivery methods to suit your needs, ranging from standard shipping to expedited services for those requiring urgent relief. All orders are processed quickly after prescriber approval and are sent in plain, unbranded packaging so that only you know the contents of your delivery.

Canesten Thrush External Cream is a medicinal topical treatment used to alleviate the external symptoms of vaginal thrush, a common yeast infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans. It is specifically designed to treat vulvitis, which is the inflammation and irritation of the vulva (the area surrounding the entrance to the vagina).

The active substance in this cream is clotrimazole, which is present at a 2% w/w concentration (20mg per gram of cream). Clotrimazole belongs to the imidazole group of antifungal medicines, which are highly effective at inhibiting the growth of various fungi and yeasts.

Clotrimazole works by interfering with the cell membranes of the fungi causing the infection. By inhibiting the production of ergosterol, a vital component of the fungal cell membrane, the medication causes the membrane to leak and the fungal cells to eventually die, thereby clearing the irritation and redness.

1. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before and after application.
2. Apply the cream thinly and evenly to the affected external areas around the entrance of the vagina.
3. Repeat the application 2 or 3 times a day.
4. Gently rub the cream into the skin until it is absorbed.

A small strip of cream (approximately 0.5cm long) is usually sufficient to treat an area about the size of a hand. You should continue using the cream until the external symptoms have disappeared, though you should consult a doctor if symptoms persist for more than seven days.

While most people tolerate the cream well, some users may experience mild local reactions. These are typically localised to the area of application and resolve quickly once use is discontinued.

You should not use this cream if you have a known allergy to clotrimazole or any other ingredients, such as cetostearyl alcohol. This product may reduce the effectiveness of latex contraceptives (condoms and diaphragms). Therefore, alternative contraceptive precautions should be used for at least five days after the final application. Always consult your doctor before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have experienced more than two thrush infections in the last six months.

Canesten Thrush External Cream is specifically for external relief, whereas other products like pessaries or oral capsules are required to treat the internal cause of the infection. For many patients, a "Combi" approach, using both an internal treatment and this external cream, provides the most comprehensive relief from both the cause and the symptoms of thrush.

Many patients report significant relief from itching and soreness within 24 to 48 hours of the first application. As the UK's leading brand for thrush treatment, Canesten is widely trusted by patients for its reliability and ease of use in managing intimate health conditions.

For a full list of ingredients and detailed safety information, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication. It is essential to read this document carefully before starting your treatment to ensure it is suitable for your specific health needs.

Can men use Canesten Thrush External Cream?

Yes, men can use this cream to treat the end of the penis (balanitis) if their partner has thrush, helping to prevent the infection from being passed back and forth.

Do I need an NHS prescription for this?

While this medication can be prescribed on the NHS, you can also purchase it privately through our online pharmacy after a successful consultation with our registered prescribers.

Can I use this cream during my period?

Yes, the external cream can be used during your period, though internal treatments like pessaries may be less effective during heavy menstrual flow.

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and should not replace seeking professional advice from a medical professional for personalised diagnosis or treatment. Always read the label and the patient information leaflet before use.

Our content is regularly reviewed by our team of medical experts and pharmacists to ensure that all information provided is accurate, up to date and aligned with the latest UK clinical guidelines.