Kadefungin 3 / 6

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Kadefungin 3 / 6

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Kadefungin 3 / 6

What is Kadefungin 3 / 6? Definition and Classification

Property Description
Active Ingredient Clotrimazole
Form Vaginal tablet (pessary) and Topical vaginal cream
Pharmacological Class Antifungal Agent (Imidazole)
General Purpose Treatment of superficial fungal infections (e.g., candidiasis)
Origin Synthetic

Kadefungin 3 / 6 is a pharmaceutical preparation, commonly available Over-The-Counter (OTC), classified as a broad-spectrum antifungal agent (antimycotic) belonging to the imidazole class of drugs. This preparation functions as a targeted monotherapy, distinguishing it by relying on a single active compound for localized treatment. The core function of this antimycotic is clinically recognized for its ability to eliminate the presence of pathogenic fungi, such as the common yeast Candida albicans, directly at the site of infection.

Composition and Available Forms: Clotrimazole, Tablets, and Cream

The sole active ingredient in Kadefungin 3 / 6 is Clotrimazole (INN), a well-established synthetic compound that determines the preparation's therapeutic action. This medicine is specifically supplied in forms intended for local application: the vaginal tablet (pessary) and the topical vaginal cream. The product's availability in both forms allows for a combined approach to address both internal vaginal infection and associated external symptoms of the vulvovaginal area. The nomenclature, Kadefungin 3 or Kadefungin 6, generally refers to packaging designed for different options in the duration of the standard treatment course.

General Purpose: Targeted Local Treatment for Fungal Infections

The general purpose of Kadefungin 3 / 6 is to counteract and eliminate the fungal organisms responsible for superficial fungal infections, most notably vulvovaginal candidiasis. Clotrimazole achieves its effect by interfering with the synthesis of ergosterol, a vital component of the fungal cell membrane, which leads to the eventual clearing of the fungal pathogens. This focused local application is designed to resolve the source of the infection and assist in restoring the physiological balance of the intimate area.

What side effects are possible with Kadefungin 3 / 6?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for the active ingredient in Kadefungin 3 / 6, Clotrimazole, for vaginal and topical use, is characterized primarily by localized reactions at the site of administration, with minimal systemic absorption.


Official Adverse Reactions and Frequency

Many adverse reactions documented for local Clotrimazole use are classified as Frequency not known by regulatory bodies. This classification is common for events identified through spontaneous post-marketing reports, which do not allow for a precise estimation of incidence.

Officially documented adverse effects are generally grouped by the affected physiological system:

  • Reproductive System: This category includes common localized symptoms such as vulvovaginal burning sensation, pain, discomfort, itching (pruritus), erythema (redness), and discharge.
  • Immune System: Serious, though rare, systemic reactions are officially listed, including hypersensitivity, angioedema, and anaphylactic reaction. Symptoms of a severe systemic reaction, such as syncope (fainting), hypotension, and dyspnea (difficulty breathing), are also documented.

Safety Considerations and Restrictions

Latex Barrier Contraceptives: Official safety information notes that Clotrimazole products may cause damage to latex contraceptives (such as condoms and diaphragms), potentially reducing their effectiveness. Alternative protection measures are necessary during and shortly after treatment.

Drug-Related Safety Notes: Use is restricted in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to Clotrimazole or other imidazole antifungal agents. Concomitant use with oral immunosuppressants like tacrolimus or sirolimus may lead to elevated plasma levels of those drugs, a potential safety concern.

Specific Populations: Due to minimal systemic absorption, the use of Clotrimazole during pregnancy and lactation is considered possible, but regulatory authorities advise that it be undertaken under medical supervision.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help: Official Regulatory Information for Kadefungin 3 / 6 (Clotrimazole)

The official regulatory profile for Kadefungin 3 / 6 (Clotrimazole) addresses overdose, primarily distinguishing between the intended local application and accidental ingestion. Due to the very low systemic absorption of the active ingredient, regulatory documents state there is no anticipated risk of acute intoxication following a single overdose via the correct vaginal or dermal route.


When to Seek Immediate Medical Help

The requirement to seek urgent medical help is tied exclusively to the scenario of accidental oral ingestion.

Scenario Required Emergency Action (Regulatory Mandate)
Accidental swallowing of the product Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line immediately.

Documented Overdose Manifestations

Manifestations are documented solely if the product is accidentally swallowed, potentially affecting the gastrointestinal and central nervous systems. Symptoms may include dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. No severe or life-threatening outcomes are documented in regulatory overdose sections for this drug.

The official label confirms no specific antidote is known. Management focuses on symptomatic and supportive treatment. Procedural interventions, such as gastric lavage, should only be considered if symptoms are apparent and the airway can be protected adequately.

Therapeutic Uses of Kadefungin 3 / 6

What Kadefungin 3 / 6 Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Kadefungin 3 / 6 is used in situations involving certain distressing symptoms related to vulvovaginal fungal infections. The treatment is considered relevant for managing symptoms associated with vaginal candidiasis (yeast infection).

This medication is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed to address core manifestations, including intense itching (pruritus), uncomfortable burning, and localized soreness. The medication is relevant for easing symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, including redness, inflammation, and infection-associated abnormal discharge.

This medication is commonly used across conditions characterized by acute or episodic manifestations, and may be considered in situations that follow events like antibiotic use. Applied during phases of increased distress or discomfort, the treatment provides support that contributes to easing the overall symptom load.

“This application is relevant for managing symptoms that interfere with daily comfort and contributes to improved day-to-day stability.”

Quick Fact: Supports Easing of Itching and Burning


Regulatory References

  1. MedlinePlus Drug Information overview

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Population Eligibility Rules for Kadefungin 3 / 6

The eligibility status for Clotrimazole vaginal preparations (Kadefungin 3 / 6) is strictly defined by official regulatory documentation. Use is contraindicated for patients with known hypersensitivity to the active substance or any of its excipients. Treatment must not be performed during the menstrual period.

Age Eligibility

The medicine is generally intended for adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older. However, use is not recommended without prior medical consultation for patients under 16 years or over 60 years.

Conditional Use (Requires Medical Advice)

Consultation with a doctor is mandatory if a patient has: Diabetes Mellitus or an underlying immunodeficiency disease; a history of more than two infections in the last six months; or if it is the first time experiencing symptoms. For pregnant or lactating women, use is restricted and requires medical supervision. Specifically, use is generally not recommended in the first trimester, and if used during pregnancy, the vaginal tablet must be administered without an applicator.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official regulatory profile for Clotrimazole vaginal preparations defines specific constraints related to co-administered medicines and certain vaginal products, reflecting the information documented in government sources.

Drug-Drug and Pharmacokinetic Interactions

Co-administration with specific oral immunosuppressants, such as Tacrolimus and Sirolimus, may lead to a pharmacokinetic interaction. Official labeling states that this effect can result in increased plasma concentrations of the immunosuppressive agent. This finding is noted as clinically significant and requires monitoring of the co-administered drug's plasma levels, as detailed in regulatory documents.

Drug-Product and Administration Restrictions

A mandatory drug-product interaction exists with latex contraceptive devices (including condoms and diaphragms). The regulatory profile specifies that Clotrimazole may cause structural damage to the latex material, which may lead to the functional failure of the contraceptive barrier. For this reason, latex devices must not be relied upon during treatment. Furthermore, a specific timing restriction applies to other intravaginal products: tampons, douches, and spermicides must not be used concurrently with the treatment course. No specific interactions with food, alcohol, or herbal supplements are officially documented for this localized formulation.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action for Kadefungin 3 / 6 is determined by the action of Clotrimazole, which interferes with the fundamental processes required for fungal cell integrity. The compound operates primarily by acting as a specific inhibitor of the enzyme lanosterol 14-alpha demethylase (CYP51), which is essential for producing ergosterol, the key sterol component of the fungal cell membrane. This molecular interaction halts a necessary step in the fungal sterol synthesis pathway.

The inhibition triggers a cascade where the fungal membrane loses its structural integrity due to the depletion of ergosterol and the accumulation of unfunctional sterols. This damage causes the cell boundary to become abnormally porous, leading to the uncontrolled leakage of vital intracellular components (like electrolytes and amino acids), resulting in the loss of metabolic stability and cessation of fungal proliferation.

The final physiological outcome is a concentration-dependent effect: the localized presence of the compound can either inhibit fungal proliferation (fungistatic) or, at sustained high concentrations, cause irreversible structural damage and fungal cell death (fungicidal). This mechanism leads directly to the irreversible structural and functional failure of the fungal cell.

Dosage and Administration Information

Official Administration Guidelines

Kadefungin 3 / 6, which contains the antifungal agent Clotrimazole, is administered through both intravaginal and topical/external routes. The intravaginal route is used for the vaginal tablet (pessary) or cream, while the topical route is reserved for cream application to the external genital area.

Treatment follows a fixed, short-term course of either 1, 3, or 6 consecutive days, depending on the formulation strength. For instance, the 1-day course typically utilizes a single 500 mg vaginal tablet, while longer courses use lower-strength tablets (e.g., 100 mg) or cream.

Intravaginal dosing is performed once daily, specifically at night or before bedtime, to ensure maximum medication retention and dissolution. For the cream, external application to the vulval area is performed 2 to 3 times per day.

Procedural instructions emphasize that the tablet or cream should be inserted as high as possible into the vagina, often while lying on the back. The treatment course must not be initiated or performed during menstruation and must be completed prior to its onset. Furthermore, to maintain the product's integrity, the avoidance of tampons, douches, and other intravaginal products concurrently with treatment is necessary.

For specific populations, pregnant individuals must insert the vaginal tablet without using the applicator.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Kadefungin 3 / 6


Evidence for Uncomplicated Fungal Infections

Research examining the active ingredient, Clotrimazole, includes a large body of Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews. These studies were used in research exploring how symptoms change over time when treating conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations of vulvovaginal candidiasis. The trials typically compared the medication to a non-active comparator or another antifungal agent. Studies explored how the condition evolved in populations of adult women and adolescents who had a confirmed diagnosis.

The trials monitored two main outcomes: outcomes related to physical discomfort (such as itching, burning, and soreness, which are patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort) and the Mycological Status (examination of the presence or absence of Candida organisms). Research so far describes patterns where the Mycological Status of the observed populations was tracked and measured across defined short-term treatment durations.

Evidence for Persistent or Recurring Fungal Infections

The research base includes studies exploring conditions that reoccur frequently. These studies examined outcomes in women who experience severe symptoms or who have recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis. Research has explored different strategies, including comparing short-term, intense treatment protocols with longer, extended treatment plans, known as Maintenance Regimens.

In these studies, researchers were primarily concerned with Recurrence Frequency, which tracks the return of symptomatic infection, and measuring sustained Clinical Status following the initial treatment phase. The available evidence, while established, was associated with less consistent patterns in the long-term management of recurrence compared to initial treatment.

Long-Term Evidence and Durability of Response

Research has explored treatment success across varied time intervals. For isolated infections, the assessment is short-term, with a "Test-of-Cure" typically observed in some studies 2 to 4 weeks after the end of the regimen. For conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations, particularly those involving recurrence, studies monitored patients over much longer periods, sometimes 6 to 12 months. However, there is limited information for long-term outcomes beyond these specific study durations, and long-term effects are not fully established for all treatment strategies.

Evidence in Specific Patient Groups

The body of evidence centered on the population of adult women. However, research has explored specific cohorts. Studies included symptomatic pregnant women as a distinct population group. Furthermore, symptom patterns were evaluated in specific age cohorts, including adolescents (from age 16). Results apply only to the populations studied, meaning data for certain groups with specific underlying health conditions remain insufficient.

Evidence Gaps and Areas for Future Research

Evidence is limited in situations where the infection is caused by non-albicans species of Candida, and studies suggest that these species may not respond to topical treatment in the same way as C. albicans. Other research limitations frames include the need for more extensive data on host and pathogen factors contributing to recurrence. The body of evidence highlights what is known—and what is still uncertain—about the long-term patterns of recurrence and the evaluation of symptom patterns in certain understudied populations.

Key Studies & References

  1. Treatment of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis—An Overview of Guidelines and the Latest Treatment Methods
  2. Clotrimazole - MotherToBaby | Fact Sheets (NIH/NCBI)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Kadefungin 3 / 6 (FAQ)


Q: What is the difference between Kadefungin 3 and Kadefungin 6?

Kadefungin 3 and Kadefungin 6 refer to different options for the duration of the treatment course: typically a 3-day course versus a 6-day course. These options use different total amounts or concentrations of the active ingredient, delivered over the specified duration.


Q: How quickly can a person expect symptoms to begin improving after starting treatment?

According to patient information, individuals often begin to feel an improvement in their symptoms during the first few days of treatment. Official guidelines advise that if no improvement is noted after approximately three days, medical consultation should be sought.


Q: Is it normal to experience a slight burning or stinging sensation when first using the product?

Official drug documents list a localized burning or stinging sensation as a commonly reported reaction at the site of application. These local effects, such as irritation or discomfort, are considered possible side effects that may occur during use.


Q: What should a person do if their symptoms come back shortly after finishing the treatment?

If symptoms return shortly after completing the course, or if they do not improve within the expected timeframe, official guidelines note that medical consultation is necessary. This is especially relevant if the infection recurs frequently.


Q: Is the applicator supplied with the vaginal tablets reusable or disposable?

Patient instructions for vaginal clotrimazole products often specify the nature of the applicator. If the applicator is reusable, patient instructions typically outline cleaning procedures, which often involve using warm water and soap after each use. Disposable applicators should be discarded according to local rules.


Q: Why is it important to confirm the type of infection before using an over-the-counter product?

The medication is primarily indicated for fungal infections. While official documents note the active ingredient may have an effect on certain other microorganisms, the symptoms of vulvovaginal candidiasis can sometimes be similar to other conditions requiring different medical treatment. Official eligibility rules advise that a healthcare provider should be consulted if it is the first time experiencing symptoms.


Q: If using Kadefungin 3 Combi-Pack, is the external cream an essential part of the internal treatment?

The external cream in a combi-pack is intended to relieve external symptoms, such as itching and irritation, in the vulval area. Official labeling indicates the cream addresses external symptoms, but it is the internal (vaginal) medication that clears the internal fungal source of the infection.


Q: What is the difference in concentration of the active ingredient between the 3-day and 6-day treatments?

The 3-day treatment typically involves a higher concentration or dosage of the active ingredient per application than the 6-day treatment. This difference allows the full intended therapeutic amount to be delivered over the shorter time period.


Q: Does Kadefungin 3 / 6 treat bacterial infections, or only fungal ones?

The primary indication and purpose of this product is to treat fungal infections, specifically those caused by Candida species. However, official regulatory documents state that the active ingredient has also demonstrated activity against certain Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria in laboratory settings.


Q: What should be done if the vaginal tablet does not seem to dissolve completely?

Official instructions note that the vaginal tablet needs moisture to dissolve completely. Regulatory information emphasizes that the tablet or cream should be inserted as deeply as possible into the vagina, ideally at bedtime, to prevent undissolved remnants.


Q: Is it possible to use Kadefungin 3 / 6 while taking hormonal birth control (the pill)?

Official information regarding drug interactions primarily warns about potential effects when used alongside certain oral immunosuppressant medicines and the risk to latex barrier contraceptives. No significant interaction with oral hormonal birth control pills is typically documented in the official labeling.


Q: Is it necessary to treat a sexual partner if they have no symptoms?

Official patient information suggests that applying the external cream to a male partner’s external genital area may help prevent the risk of re-infection. However, the product’s internal treatment is for the symptomatic individual.


Q: Is it okay if a small amount of the vaginal tablet or cream leaks out after application?

Due to the nature of the application, official patient instructions acknowledge that some leakage may occur. It is often advised to insert the product deeply while lying down and use a panty liner or sanitary napkin to protect clothing.


Q: What are the ingredients in Kadefungin 3 / 6 other than the main active substance?

Official documents (SmPCs) list the excipients, or inactive ingredients, contained in the product. These substances, which are necessary for the product's formulation, can include ingredients like cetostearyl alcohol and benzyl alcohol in the cream.


Q: What should a person do if a tablet or a significant amount of cream is accidentally swallowed?

Accidental ingestion is listed as a serious safety note. Official safety warnings indicate that a doctor or local poison control center should be contacted immediately if the product is accidentally swallowed.


Q: Are there studies looking at the effect of Kadefungin 3 / 6 on fertility?

Preclinical safety data, which supports the regulatory review of the drug, has explored the effects of the active ingredient. These studies indicate that clotrimazole did not affect fertility at the doses that were examined.


Q: Is it common for the skin to feel slightly irritated due to the product's excipients?

Official labeling specifically notes that some of the inactive ingredients, such as cetostearyl alcohol or benzyl alcohol, may be associated with localized skin reactions. These excipients can potentially cause mild irritation or contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals.


Q: What should be considered if the infection is suspected to be more severe or persistent?

Official guidelines state that for individuals with severe, extensive, or persistent symptoms, medical consultation is required, as the product may not be appropriate for self-treatment in these cases.


Q: How deep must the vaginal tablet or cream be inserted for the treatment to be effective?

Official patient instructions emphasize that the tablet or cream should be inserted as deeply as possible into the vagina. Official instructions emphasize deep placement to ensure the medication is retained and dissolution occurs.


Q: Does the use of Kadefungin 3 / 6 have any known effect on a person's ability to drive or use machines?

Regulatory information and safety data generally conclude that the localized use of this medication has no or a negligible influence on a person's ability to drive a vehicle or operate machinery.


Q: Does the treatment affect the natural balance of the vaginal environment?

Official documents note that while the active ingredient acts against fungi and certain other microbes, it is not active against Lactobacilli. Lactobacilli are key bacteria that help maintain the normal flora (balance) of the vaginal environment.


Q: Can the cream be used to treat a fungal infection on the external genital area of a male partner?

Official product information confirms that the external cream formulation can be applied to the partner’s external genital area, such as the glans penis. This application may help reduce the risk of re-infection to the female partner.


Q: Does Kadefungin 3 / 6 target other microorganisms besides Candida fungi?

Yes, official regulatory documents state that while the medication's primary purpose is antifungal, the active ingredient is also documented to have an effect against certain Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms, in addition to Candida fungi.


Q: What should I do if I forget to use a dose of Kadefungin 3 / 6?

Official patient instructions advise that if a dose is missed, it should be used as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped to avoid applying a double dose.


Q: Can Kadefungin 3 / 6 be used in people with a weakened immune system?

Official eligibility criteria state that individuals with underlying immunodeficiency diseases or a weakened immune system require medical consultation before use.


Q: Can the cream formulation of Kadefungin 3 / 6 be used for external treatment only?

Yes, the topical cream formulation is officially indicated and can be used for external treatment only. This application is suitable for soothing vulval symptoms or treating other fungal skin infections.


Q: Are there specific instructions for cleaning the reusable applicator?

If a reusable applicator is included, patient instructions specify that it should be pulled apart, if possible, and thoroughly cleaned with soap and warm water after each use before being dried and stored.


Q: Is there a particular time of day that is best for applying the cream or inserting the tablet?

Official instructions for the vaginal tablet generally specify that it should be inserted at night or before bedtime. This timing is intended to ensure maximum retention of the medicine. The external cream is typically applied a specified number of times per day, such as in the morning and evening.

How should Kadefungin 3 / 6 be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal Requirements

The storage and disposal of Kadefungin 3 / 6 (Clotrimazole) must comply strictly with official regulatory labeling to ensure product integrity and public safety.

Official Storage Conditions

Requirement Specific Condition
Temperature Store at room temperature, typically between 20° to 25°C. Do not store the vaginal tablets above 30°C.
Protection The product must be protected from heat, light, moisture, and must not be frozen.
Child Safety Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.

Stability and Disposal

The medicine should not be used after the printed expiration date. For the cream, it must be discarded if it has been open for longer than six months. Any unused or expired product and the used applicator must be disposed of in accordance with local requirements; applicators should not be flushed down the toilet.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

Equivalent of Kadefungin 3 / 6 found in:

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