The effect of curcumin-based and clotrimazole vaginal cream in the treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis

Abstract

Background:Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is the second most common infection of the lower female genital among women passing through their productive age. Furthermore, Candida albicans is the most common VVC agents followed by, non-albicans Candida species. Nowadays, extensive studies are being conducted on alternative therapies and the use of herbal medicines.Objectives:The present study was conducted to compare the effect of curcumin and clotrimazole vaginal cream in the treatment of VVC.Methods:The present randomized controlled trial study was performed on 94 women passing through their productive age after their being diagnosed with VVC. The subjects were randomly divided into two groups, with one receiving curcumin-based vaginal 10% cream and the other receiving clotrimazole vaginal 1% cream. The treatment period was 1 week and a full 5 g applicator was used every night. Required follow-up was implemented 4–7 days after the end of treatment.Results:The results showed no significant differences between the two groups in terms of vaginal discharge, itching, vulvovaginal irritation, and vulvovaginal erythema (P > 0.05); however, the number of negative cultures in the group receiving curcumin was significantly lower in comparison with the other group, which received clotrimazole (P = 0.002).Conclusion:It seems that although curcumin could be effective in the treatment of clinical symptoms of VVC, it, quite similar to clotrimazole vaginal cream, did not affect vaginal culture.

The Efficacy of Hybrid Vaginal Ovules for Co-Delivery of Curcumin and Miconazole against Candida albicans

“…The co-administration of antifungal agents is effective in increasing the pharmacological effect but can cause adverse effects, such as vulvovaginal burning sensation, reported after the topical administration of CUR, as well as irritation, burning, and itching with the application of MCZ. However, when the effect of the combined drugs is synergistic, the doses can be reduced and, consequently, the adverse effects resulting from both drugs can be minimized [ 49 , 50 , 51 ].…”

Phytotherapy of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis: A Narrative Review

“…Ninety-four women with VVC were studied and divided into two groups: those taking a 10% vaginal cream with curcumin and a 1% clotrimazole-based vaginal cream. It was observed that vulvar and vaginal pruritus was reduced in both groups: after clotrimazole, from 87.2% to 19.1%; after curcumin, from 85.1% to 12.8% [58].…”

“…The most expressive example is curcumin. A complete cure of VVC in women using turmeric cream was observed in 66% of patients, whereas after clotrimazole, the result reached 48.9% [58]. This is probably caused by the fact that curcumin reduces the induction of multiple inflammatory mechanisms of cyclooxygenase 2 and interleukins Il-1, -5, -6, -12, and -18 and lox-12.…”

“…Another likely mechanism of action of curcumin is the inhibition of hydrogen ion release and the reduction of ergosterol production. This results in a decrease in proteinase secretion from fungal cells and destruction of their membranes [58].…”