Frequently Asked Questions
Canesten Clotrimazole Cream 1%
How long do I need to apply Canesten Clotrimazole Cream 1%?
For athlete’s foot, ringworm, fungal infection of area around the nails, fungal infection of the skin folds: 3 – 4 weeks or as directed by physician.
For skin redness/irritation (Erythrasma): 2 – 4 weeks or as directed by physician.
For white spots: 1 – 3 weeks or as directed by physician.
References:
1. Local Canesten® Clotrimazole Cream 1% Product Information Leaflet
How to use Canesten Clotrimazole Cream 1%?
Canesten® Clotrimazole Cream 1% should be applied thinly and evenly to affected areas about 2-3 times daily and gently rubbed in.
References:
1. Local Canesten® Clotrimazole Cream 1% Product Information Leaflet
Can I use Canesten Clotrimazole Cream 1% to treat vaginal yeast infection?
Yes, can use Canesten® Clotrimazole Cream 1% to treat vaginal yeast infection. Apply thinly and evenly to the affected areas two or three times daily and rubbed in gently. (for external use only)
Athlete's Foot
How do I treat athlete’s foot?
Athlete’s foot is a very common skin infection caused by fungus, and you can treat it easily with an antifungal medicine applied directly onto the infected area. There are several Canesten® products available to treat your athlete’s foot.
Click here for more information on treatment.
How long does the treatment for athlete's foot usually take?
Depending on the product, recommended treatment time varies from 1 to 4 weeks. The symptoms of the skin infection, such as itching or soreness, should improve within a few days of treatment with the Canesten® Clotrimazole Cream 1%. If the symptoms do not improve within 7 days, please consult your doctor.
Nail Fungal Infections
What are the symptoms of fungal skin infections?
Signs and symptoms of fungal skin infections may vary depending on the area infected or the fungal species involved. Athlete’s foot, a common fungal skin infection, typically presents with reddening and intense itching between the toes. Please consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
References:
1. Nenoff P, Krüger C, Schaller J, Ginter-Hanselmayer G, Schulte-Beerbühl R, Tietz HJ. Mycology - an update part 2: dermatomycoses: clinical picture and diagnostics J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2014;12(9):749-77
Can Canesten Clotrimazole Cream 1% be used for all types of fungal skin infection?
Canesten® Clotrimazole Cream 1% is used to treat fungal skin infections such as athlete’s foot, white spots, ringworm, fungal infection of the area around the nails, fungal infection of the skin folds, and skin redness/irritation (Erythrasma). Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.
References:
1. Local Canesten® Clotrimazole Cream 1% Product Information Leaflet
Can I get a nail fungal infections on my fingernail?
Yes you can, though you’re seven times more likely to get an infection on one of your toenails than on one of your fingernails. This is because the environment your feet are in, (moist socks and shoes, public changing rooms or swimming pool floors) are where the fungi that cause nail fungal infections are most often found.
Is nail fungal infections contagious?
Yes, it is contagious and if you don't treat the infection, there's a chance it will spread to other nails, so it is important to start your treatment as early as possible. It is best to avoid changing rooms, swimming pools and nail/beauty salons while you have a nail fungal infections to prevent the infection from spreading.
How can i prevent nail fungal infections in future?
The best way to avoid future fungal nail infections is to take good care of your feet and nails. For example, always dry your feet carefully, and wear flip flops in swimming pools or public changing rooms.
Jock Itch
What can I do to treat Jock Itch?
Jock itch is a fungal infection, so you can use an antifungal treatment to clear it up.
I have a rash on my scrotum and/or penis, is this jock itch?
Not usually, as jock itch is normally found around the groin area, inner thighs and buttocks, not your genitalia. If you have a rash on your scrotum and/or your penis, it’s best to see your doctor so you get the correct diagnosis and treatment.
How long does the treatment last?
Once you start treatment your jock itch should clear up within 3-4 weeks. If the symptoms do not improve, or if they worsen, please consult your doctor.
Ringworm
Is ringworm caused by worms?
No! Ringworm is a fungal skin infection, and has nothing to do with worms. It gets its name from the ring-shaped rash that develops on your skin from the fungal infection.
Click here to learn more about ringworm.
How do I treat ringworm?
As ringworm is a fungal infection, you need to use an antifungal treatment to treat it effectively. Canesten® has a range of treatment products available including different applications.
Can animals get ringworm?
Yes. If your pet has patches of missing fur, it could be ringworm. Check your pets for signs of the infection, and take them to the vet immediately if you notice any visible symptoms. If you come across an animal that you think is infected you should stay away to avoid getting the infection yourself.
Sweat Rash
What causes sweat rash?
Sweat rash is caused by an overgrowth of a yeast (Candida) due to humidity, friction and lack of ventilation between skin folds.
How do I know if I have sweat rash?
Common symptoms include a red rash, inflamed, itchy or broken skin. These symptoms usually show up in areas where your skin rubs together, such as under your arms.
Will regular moisturiser or body creams help with sweat rash?
Candidal sweat rash may not go away on its own; you may need to use an antifungal product to treat it. If your sweat rash is inflamed, you can use a soothing treatment that also tackles the infection. For more information, visit our treatment page.
Vaginal Yeast Infection
What is vaginal yeast infection?
Vaginal yeast infection is an infection by a fungal species known as Candida albicans. It is common for women of reproductive age to experience vaginal yeast infection at least once in their lifetime.
References:
- Mashburn J. Vaginal infections update. J Midwifery Womens Health 2012;57(6):629-34
- 2das Neves J, Pinto E, Teixeira B, Dias G, Rocha P, Cunha T, et al. Local treatment of vulvovaginal candidosis: general and practical considerations. Drugs. 2008;68(13):1787-802
- Sobel JD. Vulvovaginal candidosis. Lancet 2007;369:1961-71
- David W Denning, Matthew Kneale, Jack D Sobel, Riina Rautemaa-Richardson. Global burden of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis:a systematic review. Lancet Infect Dis 2018. Published Online August 2, 2018 http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/
What are the common symptoms of vaginal yeast infection?
The common symptoms of vaginal yeast infection may include severe itching, painful urination, and appearance of white, cheese-like substance on the area around the vagina.
What causes vaginal yeast infection?
Candida albicans is the main causative agent of vaginal yeast infection, though other yeast species may be involved as well. These fungi are part of the natural vaginal microenvironment without causing symptoms in about 20% of healthy women. [1]
References:
1. Sobel JD. Gentital candidiasis. Medicine 2010;38(6):286-90
2. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Vaginal Discharge-STD Treatment Guidelines. 2015
At what age are women most susceptible to vaginal yeast infection?
Women of reproductive age are more susceptible to vaginal yeast infection.
References:
- Sobel JD, Faro S, Force R, et al. Vulvovaginal candidiasis: Epidemiologic, diagnostic and therapeutic considerations. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1998;178:203–211
- Cotch MF, Hillier SL, Gibbs RS, Eschenbach DA. Epidemiology and outcomes associated with moderate to heavy candida colonization during pregnancy. Vaginal Infections and Prematurity Study Group. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1998; 178: 374–80.
- Dennerstein GJ, Ellis DH. Oestrogen, glycogen and vaginal candidiasis. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2001; 41: 326–28.
- Tarry W, Fisher M, Shen S, Mawhinney M. Candida albicans: the estrogen target for vaginal colonization. J Surg Res 2005; 129: 278–82.
What is the treatment of vaginal yeast infections?
Vaginal yeast infection is commonly treated with topical antifungal agents such as clotrimazole. Please consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
References:
- CDC 2015. Valvovaginal candidiasis – 2015 STD treatment guideline.
- Pappas PG, Kauffman CA, Andes D, Benjamin DK Jr, Calandra TF, Edwards JE Jr, et al. Clinical practice guidelines for the management of candidiasis: 2009 update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Clin Infect Dis. 2009;48:503-35.
- Canesten Cream Local Indications
How can I prevent vaginal yeast infections?
Personal Hygiene:
- Wash your genitals with plain water or use a mild, non-aromatic soap and dry them.
- Wipe dry in the direction from front to back.
- Change tampons or sanitary pads regularly during menstruation.
Attire:
- Choose cotton innerwear and avoid wearing tight pants.
References:
- Yeast Infection. Available at http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions.html
- Krames Patient Education. Vaginal Infections diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention. 11408.
- W. Mendling and R. Schlegelmilch. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd. 2014; 74(4): 355-360.