Clotrimazole is a substance used externally to treat topical fungal infections. The scope of its operation is wide. Clotrimazole is used in the treatment of mycoses of the skin and candidiasis of the external genital organs. It comes in various pharmaceutical forms, which are characterized by different contents of the active substance.

Clotrimazole: action

Clotrimazole works against infections:

  • dermatophytes,
  • yeast,
  • dimorphic mushrooms,
  • protozoa,
  • with some gram-negative bacteria.

This effect can be both fungistatic and fungicidal and depends on the dose used. Its mechanism of action is based on the inhibition of sterol biosynthesis by interfering with the synthesis of ergosterol and combining with phospholipids in the fungal cell wall, which causes changes in the permeability of cell membranes.

Clotrimazole: indications

Clotrimazole is used in:

  • mycoses of the skin,
  • Candidiasis of the external genitalia (vulva, vagina, glans, foreskin).

Clotrimazole: dosage

Clotrimazole in the form of mono-preparations is usually available over the counter (OTC), while formulations containing other active substances in addition to clotrimazole are available only with a prescription (Rp.). Caution should be exercised when using preparations with clotrimazole in children under 12 years of age, some preparations, such as pessaries, tablets or vaginal creams, cannot be used in this group of patients without consulting a doctor.

Clotrimazole exists in various pharmaceutical forms, which are characterized by different contents of the active substance. On the pharmaceutical market, we can distinguish:

  • creams, ointments, lotions, gels - the concentration of clotrimazole in them is usually 1%,
  • tablets, vaginal globules - containing 100, 200 or 500 mg of clotrimazole and should be used for 6, 3 or 1 day, respectively,
  • vaginal creams containing 1, 2 or 10% clotrimazole,
  • ear drops,
  • eye ointments,
  • powders.

If symptoms persist, see a doctor within 7 days of starting treatment.

Clotrimazole: side effects and remediesprecautions

Clotrimazole is a well-tolerated substance and due to its topical application, the main side effects are associated with allergic reactions such as:

  • hives,
  • shortness of breath,
  • itching,
  • rash,
  • baking,
  • swelling.

Latex condoms may be damaged when using preparations containing clotrimazole and for 5 days after discontinuing use, and additional methods of contraception should be used during this time. Clotrimazole has no significant influence on driving vehicles and operating machinery.

Klotrimazole and pregnancy

It is not recommended to use clotrimazole in the first trimester of pregnancy, and only in the second and third trimester if the doctor recommends the absolute necessity of its use. Also, breastfeeding is only possible on medical advice.

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