Clotrimazole Vaginal Cream

What is this medication?

CLOTRIMAZOLE (kloe TRIM a zole) treats infections caused by too much yeast or fungus in the vagina. It belongs to a group of medications called antifungals. It will not treat infections caused by bacteria or viruses.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Gyne-Lotrimin, Mycelex

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Diabetes
• Frequent infections
• HIV or AIDS
• An unusual or allergic reaction to clotrimazole, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for use in the vagina. It may also be applied to the external areas of skin around the vagina to decrease itching and discomfort. Do not take by mouth. Wash hands before and after use. Read package directions carefully before using. Do not use it more often than directed. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be used in children as young as 12 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

• Spermicides

Do not use any other vaginal products without talking to your care team.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

It is better not to have sex until you have finished your treatment. This medication can damage and reduce the effect of latex-containing products, such as condoms and diaphragms. It may also decrease the effect of vaginal spermicides. Do not rely on any of these methods to prevent sexually transmitted infections or pregnancy while you are using this medication.

Vaginal medications will usually come out of the vagina during treatment. To keep the medication from getting on your clothing, wear a mini-pad or sanitary napkin. The use of tampons is not recommended since they may soak up the medication. To help clear up the infection, wear freshly washed cotton, not synthetic, underwear.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Unusual vaginal discharge, itching, or odor

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Vaginal irritation at application site

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

• Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
• If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, empty the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.