Antifungal pessaries

What is Antifungal Pessaries (For Vaginal Thrush) for?

Antifungal pessaries are used to treat vaginal thrush. Vaginal thrush is caused by an overgrowth of a fungus known as Candida albicans. This infection causes symptoms such as itching, swelling, and thick, white odourless discharge. These medications will prevent the growth of the fungus and clear the infection. They may contain ingredients such as Clotrimazole or Isoconazole.

How should I take or use Antifungal Pessaries (For Vaginal Thrush)?

• Insert one pessary into your vagina every night, as deeply as possible.
• Some products only require a one-night dose. Whereas other products require you to insert a pessary for 3 to 6 nights. Complete the entire course.
• Do not stop using your medication without checking with your healthcare professional. Stopping too soon may cause the infection to come back.
• Avoid sexual intercourse during the period of treatment
• You may consider using a panty liner during the duration of treatment to absorb any discharge.
• Do not use tampons, intravaginal douches, spermicides or other products to be used in the vagina when you are using this medication.

What should I do if I forget to take or use Antifungal Pessaries (For Vaginal Thrush)?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose. 

What precautions should I take when taking or using Antifungal Pessaries (For Vaginal Thrush)?

• Wash your hands before and after handling the pessary
• Inform your healthcare professional if:
• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use Antifungal Pessaries (For Vaginal Thrush)?

Do check with your healthcare professional if other topical medications can be applied together with this medication

What are some common side effects of Antifungal Pessaries (For Vaginal Thrush)?

Mild stinging, itching and redness may occur at the affected area.

• If these symptoms do not resolve or worsen, stop the medication immediately and consult your health care professional.

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

How should I store Antifungal Pessaries (For Vaginal Thrush)?

• Keep away from children
• Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight

• Discard this medication within a year after opening unless stated otherwise by the manufacturer

How do I throw away Antifungal Pessaries (For Vaginal Thrush) safely?

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.

What else should I know about Antifungal Pessaries (For Vaginal Thrush)?

Signs that you may require further medical attention include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Vaginal discharge which is either green, yellow, or with a fishy smell
• Have symptoms which differ from previous vaginal thrush infections
• Have had 4 or more cases of vaginal thrush within the last year
• Symptoms reappear after 2 months
• Previously had a sexually transmitted infection
• Have a weakened immune system
• Continue to have symptoms 3 days after your last dose of the medication

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.