Author: Unknown

PATIENT INFORMATION
LEAFLET

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

PLEASE READ THIS LEAFLET CAREFULLY BEFORE USING CANESTEN AF CREAM

What is Athlete's Foot?

Athlete's foot is the common name for the fungal infection Tinea pedis.  It is caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes.  The name "athlete's foot" arose because this is an infection which is commonly, although not exclusively, suffered by people whose feet perspire or who use communal changing rooms.

Athlete's foot is highly contagious and infected skin shed on changing room floors or on towels can easily transfer the infection.  The discomfort caused by the infection can be made worse by wearing shoes, particularly if they are made from synthetic materials which do not allow the feet to "breathe".  The key triggers of athlete's foot include warmth, moisture and friction.  The latter can damage the tissue allowing the fungus to take hold.

CANESTEN AF CREAM

What does Canesten AF Cream contain?

The cream contains 1.0% of the active ingredient Clotrimazole BP.

Canesten AF Cream also contains benzyl alcohol, polysorbate 60, sorbitan stearate, cetyl esters wax, cetyl stearyl alcohol, 2-octyldodecanol and purified water.

The cream comes in a tube containing 15g.

Clotrimazole is one of a group of medicines called imidazoles which are used to treat fungal infections.

When should I use Canesten AF Cream?

The cream is used to treat athlete's foot.  If you are unsure whether you have athlete’s foot, seek the advice of your doctor or pharmacist (chemist).

The cream can also be used to treat other fungal skin infections.

When should I not use Canesten AF Cream?

Do not use Canesten AF Cream if you have previously had an allergic reaction to the active ingredient clotrimazole.  If you are unsure about this, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

What special precautions should I take?

If you are pregnant or are planning a family, tell your doctor or pharmacist before using the cream.  If you have informed your doctor or pharmacist already, follow their instructions carefully.

How do I use Canesten AF Cream?

•	For athlete's foot, wash your feet and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes, before applying the cream.
	
•	Smooth the cream over the affected area and rub in gently making sure that you massage cream between the toes.
	
•	The cream should be applied two or three times daily and treatment should be continued for at least one month to prevent re-infection.
	
•	It may help if you use an anti-fungal dusting powder as well.  Ask your pharmacist to recommend one.

If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.

PRODUCT LICENCE HOLDER:

Bayer plc
Pharmaceutical Division
Bayer House
Strawberry Hill
Newbury
Berkshire
RG14 1JA

MANUFACTURER:

Bayer AG
Leverkusen
Germany

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

You can help the treatment to work and prevent further athlete's foot infections if you follow these simple self-help tips:

•	Wash your socks, stockings or tights thoroughly in hot water to remove any shed skin or fungal spores.

•	Wash your feet every day in warm, soapy water and dry thoroughly, especially between the toes but avoid excessive rubbing.

•	Although your feet and toes will itch, do not scratch them.  Scratching will damage the surface of the skin and cause the infection to spread further

•	Never share towels or bath mats.

•	Change your socks, stockings or tights every day.

If you are still worried or have any questions about the symptoms or the treatment of athlete's foot, do not hesitate to ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

The cream is for external use only and should not be put in the mouth or swallowed.  If it is swallowed accidentally, seek medical advice immediately.

What should I do if I forget to use my Canesten AF Cream?

Apply the cream as soon as possible and then continue the rest of your treatment as usual.

What side-effects may I experience?

The symptoms of your infection such as itching or soreness, should improve within a few days of treatment although redness and scaling may take longer to disappear.

Canesten AF Cream may cause side-effects in some people.  You may experience a mild burning or irritation immediately after applying the cream.  If you find this intolerable, stop treatment and seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist.

If, upon first use of the cream, you experience a rash and itching, tell your doctor immediately as you may be allergic to this product.

If your symptoms get worse or persist, or you feel you are reacting badly to this medicine in any other way, consult your doctor

How should I store my Canesten AF Cream?

The cream should be stored in the original carton in a cool, dry place, below 25ºC.

KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.

Do not use the cream after the expiry date which is printed at one end of the carton and on the end of the tube.  For example, an expiry date of 12/99 means that you must not use the cream after December 1999.

If you find that you still have this medicine after its expiry date, return it to your local pharmacist who will dispose of it properly.

Date of preparation:

January 1996

REMEMBER:

If you have any doubts about using Canesten AF Cream correctly, seek the advice of your pharmacist.

Product Licence Number:
0010/0016R