Canesten HC Cream is a topical medication that combines an antifungal agent and a corticosteroid to treat fungal skin infections that are accompanied by inflammation and itching. This dual-action cream is designed to provide both antifungal and anti-inflammatory benefits, making it effective in managing symptoms and treating the underlying infection.
Active Ingredients
Clotrimazole (1%):
Function: Clotrimazole is an antifungal agent that belongs to the azole class. It works by inhibiting the growth of fungi by interfering with the synthesis of their cell membranes. This action helps eliminate the fungal infection and prevents its spread.
Target: It is effective against a wide range of fungi, including dermatophytes (e.g., Trichophyton species), yeasts (e.g., Candida species), and molds.
Hydrocortisone (1%):
Function: Hydrocortisone is a mild corticosteroid that reduces inflammation, redness, and itching. It works by suppressing the inflammatory response and modulating the immune reaction in the affected area.
Target: It is used to alleviate the symptoms associated with inflammation, such as swelling, redness, and itching.
Indications
Canesten HC Cream is indicated for the treatment of fungal skin infections that are associated with inflammation and itching. Common conditions it treats include:
Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis): A fungal infection affecting the skin between the toes and other parts of the foot.
Jock Itch (Tinea Cruris): A fungal infection of the groin area.
Ringworm (Tinea Corporis): A fungal infection of the body that appears as a red, ring-shaped rash.
Candidiasis: Yeast infections of the skin caused by Candida species.
Intertrigo: Inflammation of body folds caused by skin-on-skin friction, often complicated by fungal infection.
Application: Apply a thin layer of Canesten HC Cream to the affected area and the surrounding skin once or twice daily.
Duration: Use the cream for the full course of treatment as prescribed by your healthcare provider, typically not exceeding 7 days unless directed otherwise.
Precautions: Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. Do not use on broken skin or large areas of the body without medical advice. Wash hands thoroughly before and after applying the cream.
In the event you miss a dose, it is safe to apply the missed dose as soon as possible. However, if enough time has passed that you should be applying your next dose instead, simply skip the missed dose and resume your typical application schedule.
Always use this medication exactly as your clinician has told you. Check with our clinical team or your GP or pharmacist if you are not sure.
Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Just because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.
Canesten HC Cream combines clotrimazole, an antifungal agent, and hydrocortisone, a mild corticosteroid. While it is effective in treating fungal skin infections with associated inflammation, it may cause side effects in some individuals. Here’s a detailed look at the potential side effects:
Common Side Effects
Skin Irritation
Symptoms: Mild burning, stinging, or redness at the application site.
Frequency: These reactions are usually temporary and may subside as the skin adjusts to the medication.
Dry Skin
Symptoms: The treated area may become dry, flaky, or exhibit mild peeling.
Management: Use a gentle moisturizer if dryness becomes uncomfortable, but avoid applying other creams or ointments to the treated area unless directed by a healthcare provider.
Less Common Side Effects
Contact Dermatitis
Symptoms: Red, itchy rash that may spread beyond the application site.
Cause: Often due to an allergic reaction to clotrimazole, hydrocortisone, or other components in the cream.
Management: Discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if this occurs.
Skin Atrophy
Symptoms: Thinning of the skin, increased fragility, or stretch marks.
Cause: Prolonged use of corticosteroids like hydrocortisone can lead to skin thinning.
Management: Use the cream for the shortest duration necessary to reduce this risk.
Hypopigmentation
Symptoms: Lighter patches of skin in the treated area.
Cause: Can occur with prolonged use of topical corticosteroids.
Management: Consult a healthcare provider if noticeable changes in skin color occur.
Secondary Skin Infections
Symptoms:Increased redness, warmth, pus, or other signs of infection.
Cause: Prolonged use of corticosteroids can suppress the local immune response, increasing the risk of bacterial or fungal infections.
Management: Seek medical advice if signs of infection develop.
Rare Side Effects
Systemic Absorption
Symptoms: Rarely, systemic absorption of hydrocortisone can occur, potentially leading to side effects like weight gain, high blood pressure, and Cushing's syndrome (characterized by symptoms such as a rounded face, weight gain around the midsection, and thinning skin).
Cause: More likely with prolonged use on large areas of skin or under occlusive dressings.
Management: Use as directed and avoid long-term application to large areas.
Allergic Reaction
Symptoms: Severe itching, swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Cause: Hypersensitivity to any component of the cream.
Management: Seek immediate medical attention if a severe allergic reaction occurs.
For full information on side effects and correct use, see the patient information leaflet. If any side effects concern you, or you are experiencing any of the side effects mentioned in the patient information leaflet whilst taking this medication, please contact our clinical team or speak to your GP.
Skin Irritation
Mild irritation such as burning, stinging, or redness at the application site may occur. If irritation persists or worsens, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
Skin Atrophy
Long-term use of corticosteroids can cause thinning of the skin (atrophy), stretch marks, and other skin changes. Use the cream for the shortest duration necessary and avoid prolonged use.
Infection Risk:
Corticosteroids can suppress local immune responses, increasing the risk of secondary bacterial or fungal infections. If new signs of infection appear (e.g., increased redness, warmth, pus), discontinue use and seek medical advice.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
The safety of Canesten HC Cream during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established. Use only if clearly needed and prescribed by a healthcare provider. Discuss potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
Eyes and Mucous Membranes
Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. If the cream accidentally gets into these areas, rinse thoroughly with water.
Systemic Absorption
Although rare, systemic absorption of hydrocortisone can occur, especially with prolonged use, application to large areas, or use under occlusion. Symptoms of systemic absorption include weight gain, increased blood pressure, and signs of Cushing's syndrome (e.g., rounded face, fat deposits around the midsection, thinning skin). If you experience these symptoms, discontinue use and seek medical attention.
Use on Sensitive Areas
Avoid using on sensitive or thin-skinned areas such as the face, groin, and armpits unless directed by a healthcare provider, as these areas are more prone to side effects like skin thinning and irritation.
Allergic Reaction
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to this medication. These include:
- Hives
- Dizziness
- Fast or pounding heartbeats
- Wheezing
- Difficult breathing
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
It is important that you let us know which prescription, over-the-counter medicines and recreational drugs you are currently taking. You must also tell us about any other medical conditions that you currently have (or had in the past). This will help us ensure the prescribed medication is safe and appropriate for you to take.
For full information on warnings, medication interactions and contraindications, refer to the Patient Information Leaflet. Please read all packaging and the Patient Information Leaflet before taking any new medicine and inform our clinical team or your GP of medicines you are taking or intend to take.
