Clotrimazole (Vaginal)

Clotrimazole (kloe-TRIM-a-zole)

Treats vaginal yeast infections. Belongs to a class of drugs called antifungals.

Brand Name(s):

Gyne-Lotrimin, Mycelex-7, 3 Day Vaginal Cream, Gyne-Lotrimin 3
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to clotrimazole or other antifungals, such as Mycelex®, Monistat®, Micatin®, Spectazole®, Terazol®, or Femstat®.

How to Use This Medicine:

Cream, Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use and how often. Wash your hands before and after using this medicine.
• Wear only clean cotton underwear (panties) instead of nylon or rayon underwear. The medicine will come out of your vagina, so wear a minipad or sanitary napkin to protect your clothing. Keep using this medicine for as long as your doctor tells you to. Continue to use it even if your menstrual period begins. Use pads rather than tampons.
• This medicine is to be used only in the vagina. Use at bedtime unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
• The medicine is a cream that is in a tube. You will use an applicator to put the cream into your vagina.
• The applicator is an empty plastic tube called a barrel. There is a plunger on one end and an opening on the other end.
• Remove the cap from the end of the tube.
• Screw the open end of the applicator onto the tube of cream. Pull the plunger out all the way and squeeze the tube until the applicator is full. Unscrew the applicator from the tube and replace the cap on the tube.
• If you are using the vaginal tablet, unwrap the tablet and place it in the applicator with the pointed side up. You may wet the tablet with warm water or a water soluble lubricating gel (K-Y® Jelly). You should not use petroleum jelly (Vaseline®).
• Gently push the applicator high into the vagina and push the plunger all the way in.
• After using, pull the plunger completely out of the applicator and wash both pieces with warm, soapy water. Never use hot or boiling water.

If a dose is missed:

• Use your medicine as soon as you remember that you have missed your dose.
• If it is nearly time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• You should not use two doses at one time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Keep your medicine at room temperature, away from direct heat or light. Do not freeze.
• Keep all medicine away from children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Avoid using douches or other vaginal products unless your doctor tells you to.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
• Avoid using tampons while using clotrimazole.
• Wear freshly washed cotton underwear while using this medicine.
• Do not stop using clotrimazole unless your doctor tells you to. If you stop using the medicine too soon, your infection may return.
• Call your doctor right away if your symptoms do not go away after using this medicine for the full time ordered by your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Vaginal itching or burning
• Increased vaginal discharge
• Stomach discomfort
• Cramps
• Skin rash
• Headache

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.