Vulvovaginal candidiasis: A real-world evidence study of the perceived benefits of Canesten(®)

OBJECTIVES: Vulvovaginal candidiasis is common in women, causing discomfort and negatively impacting quality of life. Canesten(®) is an established over-the-counter brand. Its clotrimazole/fluconazole-based products, available in a variety of different formulations, have demonstrated efficacy and safety in the treatment of women with thrush/vaginal yeast infection in randomized trials. This real-world evidence study, conducted in the United Kingdom and Canada, aimed to provide consumer-important information on the benefits of Canesten, collecting retrospective information from consumers about their recent experience with the product. METHODS: Eligible participants were female, aged 18–60 years, and had experienced at least one episode of vaginal thrush (United Kingdom)/vaginal yeast infection (Canada) during the previous 6 months for which they had used at least one of the six Canesten products. Participants completed an online questionnaire eliciting information on the speed of onset of symptom relief, impact on quality of life, and product attributes/satisfaction. RESULTS: Over 90% of respondents reported improvements in symptoms and quality of life after starting treatment with a Canesten product. Improvements in symptoms within 4 h of the first time of use were perceived by 42% of consumers; 76%–88% reported symptomatic relief within 1 day. The perceived general speed of onset of symptomatic relief with a Canesten oral product (1–2 days) was slightly longer than that with a Canesten topical/intra-vaginal product (⩽1 day). Most users of Canesten single (90%) and dual product treatments (95%) reported that the products started to work from the first application. Women experiencing both internal and external symptoms of thrush/vaginal yeast infection reported Canesten dual product formulations to provide faster symptomatic relief than single product treatments. Over 90% of respondents were satisfied with their use of a Canesten product. CONCLUSION: Canesten was found by consumers to offer rapid relief of the symptoms of thrush/vaginal yeast infection with improvements in quality of life. Consumer satisfaction was high.