At a glance

QUICK SUMMARY

01 Type of medicine

Topical use

02 Generic

No

03 Active ingredient

Clotrimazole

04 Effective within
05 Works by

Treating Athlete's foot and fungal infected skin folds

06 Side effects

Rash, swelling of your lips, face, throat or tongue

Medication details

Description

Canesten HC Cream for Athlete's Foot

Canesten HC Cream is used to treat fungal skin infections such as athlete's foot when there are additional symptoms of inflammation, meaning visible swelling, redness and itching on top of the infection itself. It treats the fungal infection and reduces the swelling and itching caused by it.

How it works

The active substances are clotrimazole and hydrocortisone acetate. Clotrimazole belongs to a group of medicines called imidazoles, which destroy the fungi and some bacteria that cause skin infections. Hydrocortisone acetate is a mild steroid that reduces the swelling, redness and itching associated with inflammation of the skin, so the discomfort settles while the antifungal deals with the underlying cause.

How to use it

Wash and dry the area carefully, especially between the toes, then apply a thin layer as directed on the pack. Because of the steroid component, this cream is used for a short course only, typically up to seven days, after which a plain antifungal is normally continued if further treatment is needed. Dry feet thoroughly, change socks daily and avoid walking barefoot in shared changing areas.

Who it is for

It is for adults and children as stated on the pack with an inflamed fungal skin infection. It is not for use on the face, in the eyes, on broken or weeping skin, or for conditions such as acne or rosacea.

Safety and when to get advice

Steroid containing creams are not for long term use on the skin without medical advice, because prolonged application can thin the skin. See a clinician if the area is weeping, spreading, painful or hot, if you have diabetes or poor circulation and a foot problem, or if there is no improvement after seven days. Our UK pharmacy team can answer questions about this product before you buy.

Common questions

How long can I use it?
A short course, typically up to seven days. Get advice before continuing beyond that.

Why does it contain a steroid?
To reduce the swelling, redness and itching while the antifungal clears the infection.

Can I use it on my face?
No. Avoid the face and eyes, and ask a pharmacist about a suitable alternative.

Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with the pack before use.

Directions

Follow these directions closely:
• Before use, pierce the tube seal by inverting the cap over the end of the tube and press.
• If feet are infected; before applying the cream, they should be washed and dried thoroughly, especially between the toes.
• Canesten Athlete's Foot cream should be applied thinly and evenly to the affected areas two or three times daily and rubbed in gently.
• A strip of cream (½ cm long) is enough to treat an area of about the size of the hand.
• The treatment should be continued for at least one month to prevent re-infection.
• If you have athlete’s foot, it may help to use an antifungal dusting powder as well. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to recommend one.
The symptoms of skin infection, such as itching or soreness, should improve within a few days of treatment although signs such as redness and scaling may take longer to disappear. If symptoms do not improve within 7 days, consult your doctor.

Ingredients

Clotrimazole belongs to a group of medicines called imidazoles and is an antifungal agent which fights the cause of fungal skin infections.

Side Effects

Like all medicines, Canesten Athlete's Foot cream
can cause side effects, although not everybody gets
them. Some people may be allergic to the cream. If you are allergic, a reaction will occur soon after you start using and this may include:
• Rash.
• Swallowing or breathing problems.
• Swelling of your lips, face, throat or tongue.
• Weakness, feeling dizzy or faint.
• Nausea

Warnings

Do not smoke or go near naked flames - risk of severe burns. Fabric (clothing, bedding, dressings etc) that has been in contact with this product burns more easily and is a serious fire hazard. Washing clothing and bedding may reduce product build-up but not totally remove it.

Important information about some of the ingredients:
This product contains cetostearyl alcohol which may cause local skin reactions (e.g. contact dermatitis). The medicine also contains 20mg benzyl alcohol in each gram of cream. Benzyl alcohol may cause allergic reactions and mild local irritation.

Medically reviewed and published

  • This page was medically reviewed by Dr Sohaib Imtiaz, Clinical Lead on

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FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

What conditions are specifically mentioned for treatment with Canesten HC Cream?

The cream is used for infection and irritation of the vulva, the glans (end of the penis), nappy rash, fungal infections of the breast fold, ringworm, and athlete’s foot.

Can Canesten HC Cream be used for fungal infections in sensitive areas?

Yes, it can be used for fungal infections in sensitive areas such as the vulva or glans, as well as other skin areas prone to infection and inflammation.

Can Canesten HC Cream be used in conjunction with other medications?

Consult your healthcare provider before using Canesten HC Cream with other medications to ensure there are no interactions or contraindications.

What are the benefits of combining clotrimazole and hydrocortisone acetate in Canesten HC Cream?

Clotrimazole targets and destroys fungi causing the infection, while hydrocortisone acetate reduces inflammation, swelling, and itching, providing both antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects.

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