Buy Canesten online with free consultation & prescription

Book a quick face-to-face video consultation with a UK certified prescribing pharmacist, nurse, or doctor. If approved, your Canesten will be prescribed* and delivered straight to your door with next working day tracked delivery†. Avoid GP waiting lists. No delays. Just expert care.

Canesten is indicated for the treatment of Jock Itch.

*Includes Free Private Prescription & Consultation.

†Applies to UK only.

Manufactured by Bayer.

Canesten packaging which is available to order online from NowPatient with free next day delivery
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Canesten packaging which is available to order online from NowPatient with free next day delivery

Canesten

Canesten doses and pack sizes

*Your clinician will recommend the right strength and quantity for you during the consultation.

Treatment£11.99
Shipping£5.94
Total if approved£17.93

How it works

Fast, simple booking with a certified prescribing clinician

If approved, get your treatment prescription

Get free next-day delivery straight to your door

No hidden fees. No delays.

Similar treatments

Canesten alternatives

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Canesten prices

Brand/GenericFormDosageQuantityPriceDelivery CostConsultation Cost
CanestenBrandCream1%20 grams£11.99£0.00*(with Core+ Plan)£0.00
CanestenBrandCream1%50 grams£11.99£0.00*(with Core+ Plan)£0.00
CanestenBrandCream2%20 grams£7.39£0.00*(with Core+ Plan)£0.00
CanestenBrandPessary500mg1£9.89£0.00*(with Core+ Plan)£0.00

FAQs

Answers to popular questions about Canesten

What is Canesten?

Canesten is a well-known brand of antifungal products manufactured by Bayer, containing clotrimazole as the active ingredient. The Canesten range includes treatments for vaginal thrush (pessaries, internal cream, and external cream), athlete’s foot cream, and general antifungal skin cream. Canesten products are widely available over the counter from pharmacies across the UK. The range includes Canesten Thrush Combi (internal pessary plus external cream) and Canesten Once (500 mg single pessary).

What Canesten products are available?

The Canesten range includes: Canesten Thrush Internal Cream (5 g applicator); Canesten Thrush Pessary (500 mg single dose); Canesten Thrush Combi (pessary plus external cream); Canesten Thrush External Cream (2% clotrimazole for vulval symptoms); Canesten Cream (1% for skin fungal infections including athlete’s foot and ringworm); Canesten HC (clotrimazole 1% with hydrocortisone 1% for inflamed fungal skin infections); and Canesten Oral Capsule (fluconazole 150 mg for thrush). Products vary in their suitability and some have age restrictions.

How does Canesten work?

All Canesten products containing clotrimazole work by disrupting the fungal cell membrane. Clotrimazole inhibits the production of ergosterol, an essential structural component of the fungal cell wall. Without ergosterol, the cell membrane becomes leaky and unstable, ultimately killing the fungal cell. This mechanism is effective against Candida species (which cause thrush), dermatophytes (which cause athlete’s foot and ringworm), and other pathogenic fungi.

How do I use Canesten for vaginal thrush?

For vaginal thrush, the most common options are: Canesten Thrush Pessary — insert one 500 mg pessary high into the vagina at bedtime using the applicator (or fingers during pregnancy); Canesten Internal Cream — insert one pre-filled applicator of 10% cream into the vagina at bedtime; Canesten External Cream — apply the 2% cream to the vulval area twice daily for external symptoms. The Canesten Thrush Combi pack provides both internal and external treatment. Symptoms usually improve within 3 days.

How quickly does Canesten work for thrush?

Symptom relief typically begins within 24 hours of using Canesten for thrush. Most women notice significant improvement in itching and discharge within 1–3 days. Complete resolution usually occurs within 7 days. If symptoms persist beyond 7 days, or if thrush recurs within 2 months, see your GP or pharmacist. The infection needs to be fully cleared even if symptoms improve quickly — complete the full course of any multi-day treatments.

How do I use Canesten cream for athlete's foot?

Apply Canesten 1% cream thinly to the affected areas between and around the toes two to three times daily. Continue treatment for at least 2 weeks and for 2 weeks after symptoms have cleared to prevent recurrence. Wash and thoroughly dry your feet, especially between the toes, before applying the cream. Wear clean cotton socks and breathable shoes to help prevent reinfection.

Can I use Canesten for ringworm?

Yes, Canesten 1% cream is effective for ringworm (tinea corporis). Apply a thin layer to the affected area and surrounding skin two to three times daily. Continue for at least 2–4 weeks and for 2 weeks after the rash has cleared. Keep the area clean and dry. If the ringworm is widespread, on the scalp, or not improving after 2 weeks of treatment, see your GP as oral antifungal treatment may be needed.

Can I use Canesten during pregnancy?

Clotrimazole (the active ingredient in Canesten) is the recommended first-line treatment for vaginal thrush during pregnancy. When using a pessary during pregnancy, insert it with your fingers rather than the applicator. The Canesten Oral Capsule (fluconazole) should NOT be used during pregnancy. Always mention to the pharmacist that you are pregnant when purchasing Canesten products. Consult your midwife or doctor if symptoms do not resolve or if you are unsure about which product to use.

Can I buy Canesten without a prescription?

Yes, most Canesten products are available over the counter from pharmacies. The pharmacist may ask some questions to ensure the product is appropriate for your symptoms. Some products have age restrictions — for example, Canesten thrush treatments are generally for women aged 16–60. If you fall outside this age range or have recurrent thrush, you should see your GP.

Does Canesten affect condoms?

Yes, Canesten pessaries and internal/external creams can weaken latex condoms and diaphragms. Avoid relying on latex barrier contraception during treatment and for at least 5 days afterwards. Use alternative contraception during this time. The oral Canesten capsule (fluconazole) does not affect condoms.

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