Canesten Cream 30 G

Canesten Cream 30 G

Canesten Cream 30 G, manufactured by Bayer Zydus Pharma Pvt. Ltd., is a topical antifungal medication used to treat a variety of fungal skin infections.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: Canesten Cream
  • Common Name: Clotrimazole Cream

• Composition: Each gram of Canesten Cream contains Clotrimazole 1% w/w (10 mg/g) as the active ingredient. Inactive ingredients typically include benzyl alcohol, cetostearyl alcohol, cetyl esters wax, octyldodecanol, polysorbate 60, sorbitan monostearate, and purified water.

• Uses: Canesten Cream is prescribed for the treatment of various fungal skin infections caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds. These include:

  • Athlete's foot (tinea pedis)
  • Ringworm (tinea corporis)
  • Jock itch (tinea cruris)
  • Fungal nappy rash
  • Fungal sweat rash
  • External thrush (irritation of the vulva or the end of the penis associated with thrush)
  • Cutaneous candidiasis and erythrasma

• Dosage and Administration: The cream should be applied thinly and evenly to the affected areas and gently rubbed in, typically two or three times daily. A strip of cream about 1/2 cm long is usually sufficient for an area the size of a hand.

  • Treatment duration varies:
    • Dermatomycoses (including ringworm, jock itch): 2 to 4 weeks.
    • Athlete's foot: May require at least 4 weeks.
    • Candida vulvitis and Candida balanitis: 1 to 2 weeks.
    • Pityriasis versicolor: 1 to 3 weeks. Treatment should continue for approximately two weeks after symptoms disappear to prevent relapse. For nappy rash, it is applied twice daily at diaper changes.

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include localized skin reactions such as:

  • Irritation, redness, burning, or stinging sensation
  • Itching
  • Blistering, peeling, or rash Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), though rare, can occur, indicated by symptoms like swelling of the face, lips, throat or tongue, difficulty breathing, or dizziness.

• Precautions:

  • Do not use if hypersensitive to clotrimazole or any other ingredients, including cetostearyl alcohol or benzyl alcohol.
  • For external use only; avoid contact with eyes.
  • Canesten Cream may reduce the effectiveness and safety of latex products such as condoms and diaphragms when applied to the genital area. Alternative contraceptive measures are recommended for at least five days after use.
  • Not suitable for treating nail or scalp infections.
  • Consult a doctor if symptoms worsen or do not improve after 7 days (or 2-4 weeks depending on the infection).
  • During pregnancy and breastfeeding, use Canesten Cream under the supervision of a healthcare professional. If used on the nipple area, wash breasts before breastfeeding.
  • Cetostearyl alcohol and benzyl alcohol in the cream may cause local skin reactions or allergic reactions.

• Storage: Store at or below 25°C or 30°C (depending on specific product variation). Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

Canesten Cream 30g, containing the active ingredient Clotrimazole, is an antifungal medication commonly used to treat various fungal skin infections.

Here are some frequently asked questions about Canesten Cream:

What is Canesten Cream used for?

Canesten Cream is used to treat fungal skin infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm, jock itch, fungal nappy rash, and fungal sweat rash (intertrigo). It also helps relieve irritation of the vulva (external thrush) or the end of the penis associated with thrush.

How does Canesten Cream work?

The active ingredient, clotrimazole, works by stopping the growth of fungi. It does this by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, a vital component of the fungal cell membrane. This disruption impairs the fungal cell membrane, making it difficult for the fungi to survive and clearing the infection.

What is the usual dosage for Canesten Cream?

Canesten Cream should be applied thinly and evenly to the affected areas two or three times daily and gently rubbed in. The duration of treatment varies depending on the type and severity of the infection, generally ranging from 2 to 4 weeks. For athlete's foot, treatment may be needed for 4 weeks. It is important to complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve earlier to prevent recurrence.

What are the possible side effects of Canesten Cream?

Common side effects include local skin reactions such as itching, rash, blisters, burning, discomfort, swelling, irritation, redness, or peeling of the skin at the application site. In rare cases, severe allergic reactions may occur, with symptoms like rash, difficulty swallowing or breathing, swelling of the lips, face, throat or tongue, weakness, dizziness, or faintness. If you experience these severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Is Canesten Cream safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Canesten Cream is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. However, it is advisable to consult your doctor or midwife before use. If applied to the nipple area, breasts should be washed before breastfeeding. Some recommendations suggest avoiding it in the first trimester or using vaginal tablets without an applicator during pregnancy as a precautionary measure.

Can Canesten Cream be used with other medications?

Topical clotrimazole creams have not caused any known problems when used with other medicines. However, Canesten Cream may reduce the effectiveness and safety of latex products such as condoms and diaphragms if it comes into contact with them. If you are using this cream on the vulva or penis, you should use alternative contraceptive precautions for at least five days after using this product. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications, including herbal remedies, vitamins, or supplements you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while using Canesten Cream?

Canesten Cream is for external use only; do not swallow it or get it in your eyes. If accidental contact with eyes occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. Do not use the cream on broken skin or for fungal nail or scalp infections. Avoid covering the treated area with airtight dressings or bandages unless directed by a doctor. Discontinue use and consult a doctor if you experience irritation or an allergic reaction. Keep affected skin areas clean and dry, especially between the toes for athlete's foot, and avoid sharing towels or bath mats to prevent spreading the infection. This product contains cetostearyl alcohol and benzyl alcohol, which may cause local skin reactions. Additionally, fabrics that have been in contact with this product may burn more easily, so avoid smoking or going near naked flames. If symptoms do not improve within a few days or persist after the recommended treatment duration, consult your doctor.

What if a dose of Canesten Cream is missed?

If you miss a dose, apply the cream as soon as you remember. Then, continue with your regular treatment schedule. Do not apply a double or extra dose to make up for a missed one.

How should Canesten Cream be stored?

Canesten Cream should be stored in a cool, dry place, typically below 25°C (some formulations may allow up to 30°C). Keep it in its original carton and out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use the cream after its expiry date.