Canesten Soft Gel Pessary

Canesten Soft Gel Pessary 500mg is a pharmacy-grade antifungal treatment designed to target vaginal thrush (candidal vaginal infection) at its source. This product contains clotrimazole, an azole antifungal agent, which helps stop the growth of the Candida yeast responsible for thrush.

The single-dose soft gel pessary is formulated as a yellow teardrop-shaped vaginal capsule that is inserted directly into the vagina, allowing the active ingredient to work locally at the site of infection. It offers a simple, discreet and effective treatment option for women who have been previously diagnosed with vaginal thrush.

Key Benefits

• Targeted antifungal therapy at the site of infection.
• Single-dose application for convenience and compliance.
• Soft gel formulation designed for comfortable insertion.
• Suitable for adult women with a prior thrush diagnosis.

Follow all instructions in the enclosed patient information leaflet and any advice given by your pharmacist or clinician.

1. Wash and dry your hands before and after use.
2. Use the applicator provided with the pessary.
3. Load the soft gel pessary into the applicator as instructed in the leaflet.
4. Insert the applicator deeply into the vagina, ideally when lying on your back with knees bent.
5. Depress the plunger to release the pessary into the vagina and remove the applicator.
6. It is usually applied once at night for best comfort.

Important: Do not use during menstruation, as the product may be less effective. Avoid other vaginal products (tampons, douches) during treatment unless advised by a clinician. 

• Active Ingredient: Clotrimazole 500mg – an azole antifungal that inhibits growth of Candida yeast causing thrush.
• Other Ingredients:
• White soft paraffin
• Liquid paraffin
• Gelatin
• Glycerol
• Water
• Titanium dioxide (E171)
• Quinoline yellow (E104)
• Sunset yellow (E110)
• Lecithin
• Medium-chain triglycerides

Always refer to the packaging for the most up-to-date ingredient list and check for potential allergens.

Side Effects

Some users may experience mild local reactions at the site of application. These can include:

• Vaginal irritation
• Burning or stinging sensation
• Redness or swelling
• Vaginal discharge or mild discomfort

If any of these symptoms are severe, persistent, or concerning, discontinue use and seek advice from a pharmacist or clinician.

Warnings & Precautions

• For vaginal use only. Do not swallow.
• Only use if you have already been diagnosed with vaginal thrush; consult a clinician if uncertain.
• If symptoms do not improve within 7 days, worsen, or recur, seek medical advice.
• Avoid vaginal intercourse during treatment as it may reduce effectiveness and risk partner transmission.
• Use alternative contraceptive precautions (e.g., not latex condoms or diaphragms) for at least 5 days after treatment, as products like this may reduce rubber contraceptive effectiveness.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Seek clinician/pharmacist advice before use.
• Keep out of reach of children and do not use after the expiry date.

When to Seek Medical Help

• First-time symptoms of thrush
• Frequent recurrent infections
• Unusual vaginal bleeding or odour
• Fever, chills, abdominal pain or other systemic symptoms