How to Use Candid CL (Clotrimazole) Suppository for Vaginitis
For uncomplicated vulvovaginal candidiasis, insert one clotrimazole 100 mg vaginal tablet intravaginally at bedtime for 7 consecutive days, or use a single 500 mg tablet as a one-time application. 1
Administration Instructions
Standard Dosing Regimens
Multiple dosing options are available based on tablet strength:
- 100 mg tablets: Insert one tablet intravaginally daily for 7 days 1
- 100 mg tablets (accelerated): Insert two tablets intravaginally daily for 3 days 1
- 500 mg tablet: Insert one tablet intravaginally as a single application 1
Proper Insertion Technique
Insert the suppository deep into the vagina at bedtime 2. The bedtime administration is preferred because it allows the medication to remain in contact with vaginal tissues for a longer duration while you are lying down 1.
If using an applicator: Insert one applicatorful of cream into the vagina at bedtime, then discard the applicator after use 2.
Treatment Duration Based on Disease Severity
Uncomplicated Cases
For mild-to-moderate, sporadic, first-episode infections in otherwise healthy women, short-course therapy (1-7 days) is highly effective 1. Single-dose 500 mg tablets achieve 80-90% cure rates and are as effective as multi-day regimens 1, 3.
Complicated Cases
For severe, recurrent, or infections in women with diabetes or immunocompromise, extend treatment to 10-14 days using topical azoles 1. These patients require longer therapy because they respond less favorably to short-course regimens 1.
Important Caveats and Warnings
Oil-Based Formulation Concerns
Clotrimazole suppositories and creams are oil-based and may weaken latex condoms and diaphragms 1. Advise patients to avoid relying on these barrier methods during treatment or use alternative contraception.
When to Seek Medical Care
Return for evaluation if symptoms persist after completing treatment or recur within 2 months 1. Women experiencing three or more episodes per year require evaluation for predisposing conditions like uncontrolled diabetes 1.
Self-Treatment Limitations
Self-medication with over-the-counter clotrimazole should only occur in women previously diagnosed with vulvovaginal candidiasis who recognize recurrent symptoms 1. Inappropriate self-treatment delays diagnosis of other causes of vaginitis and can lead to adverse outcomes 1.
External Symptom Management
If vulvar itching and irritation are present, apply a small amount of clotrimazole cream to the external affected area twice daily for up to 7 days 2. This addresses external symptoms that the intravaginal suppository alone may not fully relieve.
Expected Outcomes
Treatment with clotrimazole results in symptom relief and negative cultures in 80-90% of patients who complete therapy 1. Clinical cure or improvement occurs in approximately 94-97% of patients by day 14 post-treatment 4.
Partner Management
Routine treatment of male sexual partners is not recommended 1. Vulvovaginal candidiasis is not sexually transmitted, and partner treatment does not reduce recurrence rates 1. Only treat male partners if they develop symptomatic balanitis (penile inflammation with itching) 1.