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Overview: Vaginal clotrimazole is used to treat vaginal yeast infections and can relieve symptoms of itching and irritation. It works by stopping the fungus, or yeast, that causes the infection from growing. Common side effects include mild vaginal burning, itching, or irritation. Vaginal clotrimazole is available as a cream that is inserted into the vagina and to itchy, irritated skin outside the vagina.

Uses

What is vaginal clotrimazole used for?

Vaginal clotrimazole is commonly used to treat vaginal yeast infections. It also helps relieve symptoms of itching and irritation.

Vaginal clotrimazole may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.

How does vaginal clotrimazole work (mechanism of action)?

Vaginal clotrimazole stops the fungus (yeast) that causes the infection from growing.

How is vaginal clotrimazole supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Gyne-Lotrimin
  • Trivagizole 3

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 1%, 2% vaginal cream

How should I store vaginal clotrimazole?

Vaginal clotrimazole should be stored at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). Store in a cool, dry place.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of vaginal clotrimazole?

The most common side effect of vaginal clotrimazole is mild vaginal burning, itching, or irritation. Tell your healthcare provider if you have burning, itching, or irritation that bothers you.

There may be other side effects of vaginal clotrimazole that are not listed here. Contact your healthcare provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of vaginal clotrimazole?

While less common, the most serious side effects of vaginal clotrimazole are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Vaginal clotrimazole may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using vaginal clotrimazole and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use vaginal clotrimazole?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use vaginal clotrimazole.

  • Clotrimazole
  • Gyne-Lotrimin
  • Trivagizole 3
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific vaginal clotrimazole products they stock.

What should I know about vaginal clotrimazole before using it?

Follow the instructions that come with the product. If you have any questions, ask a healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Keep vaginal clotrimazole out of the reach of children.

Some vaginal clotrimazole products come with disposable applicators that you can throw away after each use. Some vaginal clotrimazole products come with a reusable applicator, which should be washed after each use.

Do not use vaginal clotrimazole if you have never been diagnosed with a yeast infection by a healthcare provider. If this is your first time having vaginal itching and discomfort, ask a healthcare provider before using vaginal clotrimazole. 

Do not use tampons, douches, spermicides, or other vaginal products, while using vaginal clotrimazole. Vaginal clotrimazole may damage condoms and diaphragms, potentially leading to reduced protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases.

Do not have vaginal intercourse while using vaginal clotrimazole. 

You can use vaginal clotrimazole during your menstrual period.

Stop using vaginal clotrimazole and ask a healthcare provider for medical advice if you get hives or a rash, stomach pain, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or a bad-smelling vaginal discharge.

Contact your healthcare provider if your symptoms do not get better after three days or if they last longer than seven days. If your symptoms do not completely go away after using vaginal clotrimazole, ask a healthcare provider before using another product.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before using vaginal clotrimazole?

Tell your healthcare provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if vaginal clotrimazole is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Current and Past Health Conditions. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of the following.

  • Stomach, back, or shoulder pain
  • Fever or chills
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
  • Vaginal yeast infections that occur frequently, such as once a month, or three times in six months
  • Diabetes
  • Weak immune system or exposure to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

Pregnancy. If you are or plan to become pregnant, ask a healthcare provider before using vaginal clotrimazole.

Breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding, ask a healthcare provider before using vaginal clotrimazole.

Interactions

Does vaginal clotrimazole interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between vaginal clotrimazole and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect vaginal clotrimazole.

Does vaginal clotrimazole interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

There are no known interactions between vaginal clotrimazole and other medicines. Always tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much vaginal clotrimazole?

If you or someone else has used too much vaginal clotrimazole, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of vaginal clotrimazole?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next dose. Do not take double or extra doses.