Also sold as Canesten · Written by the Lyng Pharmacy team, based on NHS and BNF guidance · Updated August 2026
Also sold asCanesten
Type of medicineAntifungal
Available asCream, pessary, solution, spray
How you get itGeneral sale and pharmacy
Clotrimazole is the workhorse antifungal for skin and vaginal thrush. The most common reason it appears not to work is that it was stopped as soon as the symptoms eased — fungal infections need treating past the point at which they look better.
What it is used for
Athlete’s foot, ringworm and fungal groin infections
Vaginal thrush — as a cream, pessary or combination pack
Fungal nappy rash and other skin candida, including in skin folds
Fungal sweat rash
It is not a treatment for bacterial infections, eczema or psoriasis — and using an antifungal on those achieves nothing.
How to use it
On skin: apply a thin layer two to three times daily and rub in gently. Keep going for at least two weeks after the skin looks normal — for athlete’s foot that often means a total of four weeks. Stopping early is the main cause of recurrence.
For vaginal thrush: a pessary or internal cream is inserted at night, usually as a single dose or over three or six nights depending on the product. External cream can be used alongside for itching. Both can damage latex condoms and diaphragms — use extra precautions for at least five days.
Wash and dry the area before applying, and wash your hands afterwards.
Side effects
Mild burning, stinging, redness or irritation where applied is the usual complaint and normally passes. If it is severe, or the area becomes more inflamed, stop and speak to us — occasionally people are sensitive to the cream itself.
When to see someone rather than self-treat
Come and talk to us, or see your GP, if:
Thrush symptoms have not improved within seven days of treatment
You get thrush four or more times a year
It is your first episode of suspected thrush, or you are under 16 or over 60
You are pregnant or breastfeeding — treatment is available but should be chosen with advice
There is abnormal or foul-smelling discharge, bleeding, blisters, or lower abdominal pain
You have diabetes or a weakened immune system
A skin infection is spreading, or the skin is hot, swollen and painful
Always read the label. This page is general information, not advice for your situation. Doses, warnings and interactions differ between products and between people. Check the leaflet inside your medicine, and ask our pharmacist if anything is unclear — that conversation is free and takes two minutes.
Questions about Clotrimazole?
1 Lyng Lane, West Bromwich B70 7RW · Mon–Fri 8:30am–6pm, Sat 9am–1pm · 0121 500 5756
Keep applying for at least two weeks after the skin looks normal. For athlete’s foot that often means about four weeks in total. Stopping early is the main reason it comes back.
Can I use clotrimazole in pregnancy?
Thrush treatment in pregnancy should be chosen with advice — pessaries are usually preferred and applicators are avoided. Speak to us or your midwife first.
Does clotrimazole affect condoms?
Yes. Clotrimazole cream and pessaries can damage latex condoms and diaphragms. Use extra contraceptive precautions for at least five days.
When should thrush be checked by a doctor?
If it has not improved in seven days, if you get it four or more times a year, if it is your first episode, or if there is unusual discharge, bleeding or abdominal pain.
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