1. The Management of Infection Guidelines for primary care (see chapter 5 page 5:31) recommend a single dose of clotrimazole (5 g vaginal cream or 500 mg pessary) for candidiasis. Fluconazole (BNF section 5.2 ) 150 mg orally as a single dose is second line therapy. It is advised to avoid in pregnancy.

2. Patients should be advised that clotrimazole products may damage latex condoms and diaphragms.

3. Combination packs containing both vaginal and topical preparations are not recommended.

4. In pregnancy applicators should be avoided. The pessary may be inserted with a finger in these circumstances.

Other infections

The Management of Infection Guidelines for primary care recommend metronidazole (both vaginally and orally) for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis.