What is Canesten Thrush Duo Oral Capsule and External Cream?
This is a dual antifungal treatment for thrush that fights the infection on two fronts. First, the treatment’s single-dose oral fluconazole treatment works from within to clear the infection. Second, Canesten’s double-strength thrush cream can be applied directly to the affected area in order to relieve itchiness.
What is Canesten’s dual treatment used for?
This treatment is used to treat thrush, a fungal infection that can affect the genitals and skin on both men and women. It’s characterised by symptoms including:
- Itchiness in the affected area
- Irritation
- White discharge
How does Canesten’s dual treatment work?
Canesten’s oral treatment contains 150mg of fluconazole, an antifungal medication used for a number of fungal infections. It works by blocking the ability of fungal cells to reproduce, thereby killing the fungus.
The cream included in this dual treatment contains clotrimazole, an antifungal medication that when applied topically kills the fungi in the affected area. It worked by interfering with the cell membrane of the fungus, causing the cell contents to leak out, destroying the fungus and preventing it from reproducing. This, in addition to the soothing properties of the cream, stops itchiness when applied to the skin.
How long does the treatment take to work?
If used correctly, Canesten Thrush Duo should cause the symptoms of thrush to disappear within two days of treatment. However, it’s important to remember that some people get thrush outbreaks recurrently. If this happens, a male sexual partner can apply Canesten’s topical cream to the penis in order to stop attacks reoccurring, even if he has no symptoms.
How do I use Canesten Thrush Duo?
The oral medication is single-dose, so you only have to take it once to clear the infection from within. The tablet should be swallowed with water, and can be taken with or without food.
The topical cream should be gently applied to the affected area in a smooth, even layer. This should be done two to three times a day. You should keep using the cream until thrush symptoms have completely disappeared.
Who can’t use Canesten Thrush Duo?
You should not take Canesten’s dual treatment if you are allergic to clotrimazole, fluconazole, other azole antifungal medications such as itraconazole, or any of the other ingredients in the cream or oral treatment. This treatment is not suitable for women who are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding. You should also not use Canesten Thrush Duo if you have porphyrias, a rare metabolic disorder.
You should talk to your GP before taking Canesten Thrush Duo if:
- You are taking any medication apart from the contraceptive pill
- You are aged under 16 or over 60
What are the side effects of Canesten Thrush Duo?
You may experience mild side effects when using Canesten’s cream or oral treatment. Side effects associated with Canesten’s cream include:
- Irritation in the area of use, including itching, burning, stinging and redness. You should stop using the cream and contact your GP or a pharmacist if you experience any of these symptoms.
Common side effects when using Canesten oral capsules include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhoea
- Rash (do not use the oral treatment again if you get a rash after taking it)
How should I store Canesten Thrush Duo?
Canesten Duo should be stored in a dry, cool environment that does not exceed 25°C.
Information Leaflet
Always read the patient information leaflet before commencing treatment.
Important: We advise you to always read the patient information leaflet inside the medication box, as the generic medication may not always entirely match the patient information leaflet listed. Please contact us if you have any questions.