Klovinal : Uses, Side-Effects and Safety Information
Written by Rosemary Osuoha, B.Pharm
Last updated on November 27, 2025
Last updated on November 27, 2025
Key Takeaways
Klovinal treats multiple vaginal infections including bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and yeast infections by combining an antibiotic, an antifungal, and lactobacillus to restore healthy vaginal pH.
It works in three ways: Metronidazole kills harmful bacteria and parasites, Clotrimazole treats fungal infections, and Lactobacillus helps rebalance the vaginal flora.
Use one pessary daily for 6 nights, preferably at bedtime. Avoid sex, condoms, tampons, and other vaginal products during treatment to ensure the medication works properly.
Stop using it and seek medical help if you experience worsening irritation, allergic reactions, or if symptoms don’t improve. Always consult a pharmacist or doctor before use, especially during pregnancy or if you have medical conditions.
What Is Klovinal?
Klovinal is a vaginal pessary that’s used to treat common vaginal infections, such as bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and yeast infections (candidiasis). Each pessary contains three active ingredients:
- Metronidazole (500 mg): an antibiotic that helps treat bacterial infections and trichomoniasis.
- Clotrimazole (100 mg): Clotrimazole is a broad-spectrum antifungal agent available for topical or intravaginal use.
- Lactobacillus spores (150 million): a type of friendly bacteria that helps restore the natural balance of vaginal flora and keeps the vaginal pH at a healthy level.
The vagina normally maintains a low pH (between 3.8 and 4.2) to prevent harmful bacteria from growing. Infections can disrupt this balance and increase pH levels, resulting in symptoms such as discharge, itching, or a fishy odor. Klovinal works by clearing the infection and helping your body restore that natural balance.
What is Klovinal used for?
Klovinal is used to treat vaginal infections such as trichomoniasis, bacterial vaginosis, and yeast infections (vulvovaginal candidiasis).
How Does Klovinal Work?
Klovinal works by combining three active ingredients that treat infection and help restore the natural balance of the vagina:
- Metronidazole (500 mg) is an antibiotic that treats bacterial infections and certain parasites, including Trichomonas vaginalis. It works by killing bacteria and protozoa, making it useful for treating conditions like bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis.
- Clotrimazole (100 mg) is an antifungal that treats yeast infections by damaging the fungal cell wall. It is active against yeast and dermatophytes and also has some action against Gram-positive bacteria, especially Staphylococci, and against Trichomonas.
- Lactobacillus spores (150 million) are friendly bacteria that help restore and maintain the natural vaginal flora. They support a healthy vaginal pH (between 3.8 and 4.2), which helps prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria and yeast.
Together, these ingredients help clear infections and bring the vagina back to its normal, healthy state.
Dosage of Klovinal
Unless directed otherwise by your doctor, one pessary should be inserted as high as possible into the vagina for 6 consecutive days, preferably before going to sleep at night, for convenient and comfortable treatment. The treatment should not be carried out during menstruation.
How to Use Klovinal Pessaries
- Wash your hands with soap and water before handling the pessary.
2. Check the pessary’s firmness. If it feels too soft, cool it down by running the foil wrapper under cold water or placing it in the refrigerator for a few minutes.
3. Remove one pessary from the strip and peel off any foil or plastic wrapping.
4. Get into a comfortable position. You can lie on your back with your knees bent and legs apart, or stand with one leg raised.
5. Insert the pessary gently into the vagina using your fingers, as far in as it feels comfortable
6. Rewash your hands after insertion
How long does it take Klovinal to dissolve
It takes 15 – 30 minutes to dissolve and absorb into the body. You may notice a chalk-like appearance as it dissolves.
What to expect after using Klovinal?
After inserting Klovinal, you shouldn’t feel any major discomfort — it’s designed to sit comfortably in the vagina and dissolve gradually. You’re not supposed to feel the pessary once it’s in place.
Over the next few days, symptoms like itching, unusual discharge, or odor should start to improve if the treatment is working.
If you notice that irritation, redness, burning, or itching gets worse or if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, stop using Klovinal and contact your doctor. For severe reactions, visit the nearest hospital or emergency room.
If anything feels off or you’re unsure about how your body is responding, it’s best to check in with a Doctor or Pharmacist
Safety and Precautions When Using Klovinal
Before you start using Klovinal, it’s important to keep a few safety tips in mind.
- If you notice any irritation or sensitivity while using Klovinal, stop the treatment and speak to your doctor. You may need a different medication depending on how your body reacts.
- If your symptoms don’t improve after using Klovinal as directed, it’s important to get tested. A lab test can confirm whether you have the right diagnosis or if a different type of infection is causing your symptoms. This helps ensure you get the right treatment for your condition.
- Avoid condoms and diaphragms during treatment. Like other vaginal pessaries, Klovinal can weaken rubber contraceptives such as condoms or diaphragms. Because of this, it’s best to use another form of protection during treatment and for at least five days after finishing it.
- Don’t use tampons or other vaginal products. While using Klovinal, avoid inserting anything else into the vagina, including tampons, douches, spermicides, or other medications unless your doctor says it’s okay.
- Skip vaginal sex for now. If you’re being treated for a vaginal infection, it’s best to avoid vaginal intercourse during treatment and until the infection clears. This helps prevent spreading the infection to your partner and allows the medication to work effectively.
- Talk to your doctor before using Klovinal if:
- You’ve ever had liver problems
- You’re undergoing kidney dialysis
- You’re using Klovinal for more than 10 days
- You have a nervous system disorder
If you’re not sure whether any of these apply to you, it’s always a good idea to check in with your Doctor or Pharmacist, even if you’ve used Klovinal before.
Contraindication: Who Should Not Use Klovinal
Klovinal should not be used by individuals who are hypersensitive or allergic to topical imidazoles.
What Are Imidazoles?
Imidazoles are a class of antifungal and antimicrobial compounds commonly used to treat infections caused by bacteria and fungi. In the case of Klovinal, the imidazole component is metronidazole, which helps treat bacterial vaginosis and trichomoniasis.
What are the Side Effects of Klovinal?
Allergic reactions (may occur soon after use):
- Rash
- Swelling of the lips, face, throat, or tongue
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Weakness, dizziness, or fainting
- Itching, redness, burning, or irritation in the vaginal area
- Vaginal peeling or bleeding
Other reported side effects:
- Abdominal or pelvic pain
- Blood disorders such as:
- Agranulocytosis (very low white blood cells)
- Neutropenia (low neutrophils)
- Thrombocytopenia (low platelets)
- Pancytopenia (reduction in red and white blood cells and platelets)
- Leucopenia (low white blood cells)
Severe allergic or immune responses:
- Anaphylaxis (severe allergic shock)
- Angioedema (swelling beneath the skin)
- Urticaria (hives)
- Fever
Other notable side effects:
- Loss of appetite (anorexia)
- Psychotic symptoms like confusion, hallucinations, or a depressed mood
- Aseptic meningitis
- Vision problems such as double vision (diplopia), short-sightedness (myopia), optic neuropathy, or neuritis (may be temporary)
Can Klovinal Be Used in Pregnancy?
Klovinal pressary should only be given to pregnant or lactating mothers if the benefits outweigh the possible risk to the fetus.
Can Klovinal be Used During the Period
Using Klovinal during your menstrual period may decrease the drug’s effectiveness. This happens because menstrual blood flow can reduce the concentration of the medication available for absorption. It’s best to consult a pharmacist or doctor before starting Klovinal during your period to ensure safe and effective use.
Can Klovinal Delay Period
Klovinal is not known to delay menstruation directly. However, in some cases, a delay in your period could occur due to:
- The underlying infection being treated (which can affect your cycle)
- Stress on the body from illness
- Hormonal imbalance, unrelated to Klovinal
- Rare individual sensitivity to the medication
If you’re experiencing a delayed period after using Klovinal (especially Klovinal 210 SV), it’s likely due to other factors rather than the medication itself.
What to do
If your period is delayed by more than a week, or if you’re experiencing other symptoms like unusual discharge, pain, or a missed dose of birth control, consider:
- Taking a pregnancy test, if relevant
- Consulting your healthcare provider to rule out other causes
Frequently Asked Questions About Klovinal Pessary
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Can you use Klovinal after the Menstrual period?
Yes, you can use Klovinal after your period. Also, be sure to speak to your healthcare provider before commencing treatment.
Does Klovinal Hurt When Inserted?
You may feel slight discomfort during the insertion of Klovinal, especially if it’s your first time using a vaginal pessary. However, it should not be painful. If you experience pain, burning, or unusual irritation after insertion, it’s best to stop using the medication and consult your doctor immediately.
Can You Use Klovinal in the Morning?
While Klovinal is commonly used at night to reduce leakage and allow it to work while you’re lying down, you can use it in the morning if necessary. Just ensure you stay lying down for 20–30 minutes after inserting it to allow proper absorption. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for the best results.
How Do You Know If Klovinal Is Working?
Signs that Klovinal is working may include:
- Reduction in abnormal vaginal discharge
- Improvement in itching, odor, or irritation
- Overall relief of infection symptoms within a few days
However, you should complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms improve early. If your symptoms persist or worsen after several days, contact your doctor to reassess the condition.
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always speak with a qualified healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting any medication or making decisions about your health.
