Clotrimazole cream, topical and vaginal, containing a combination of Clotrimazole and Betamethasone Dipropionate is used to treat skin fungal infections. It is sold under the brand name Lotrisone which is manufactured by MERCK and co. Other available brand names include Mycelex & Canesten.
About Clotrimazole cream
Clotrimazole cream belongs to the antifungal class of drugs. The combination drug Clotrimazole belongs to antifungals while Betamethasone Dipropionate belongs to synthetic corticosteroids, for topical use. The cream is used for several skin fungal infections.
Clotrimazole damages the fungal cytoplasmic membrane’s permeability barrier and interferes with its biosynthesis. Hence, the fungal growth is inhibited.
The cream is topical or vaginal (external or internal).
Strength
Clotrimazole cream is available in different strengths.
- Topical clotrimazole 1%
- Vaginal clotrimazole cream 1% & 2%
Cost of Clotrimazole Cream in Pakistan
Clotrimazole Cream is a prescription drug (can also be available over the counter) manufactured by different pharmaceutical companies with different strengths. The usual price range in Pakistan is between 40-80 PKR.
Indications for use
Clotrimazole treats different skin fungal infections including;
- Athlete’s foot (Tinea pedis)
- Ringworm of the body (Tinea corporis)
- Jock itch (Tinea cruris)
- Candidiasis
- Vaginal thrush
How to use Clotrimazole Cream
- Wash the affected area of the skin and dry thoroughly
- Massage enough medicinal cream to cover the affected area as well as some of the surrounding area
- Do not cover or wash the area of application after applying the cream unless advised by your doctor
- The dosage and length of the treatment depend on the infection to be treated. Usually, twice a day (morning and evening) regime is followed
- Do not use the medicine after the prescribed duration
Vaginal cream
- Vaginal clotrimazole cream can be used for external and internal application
- Follow the above-mentioned instructions to use the external vaginal cream
- For internal vaginal cream, read the leaflet instructions carefully
- Fill the applicator correctly with the prescribed dose
- Lie on your back with knees facing your face
- Insert the applicator as far as it can easily go into the vagina
- Follow up for any burning sensations or vaginal discharge
Dosage of Clotrimazole Cream
The dosage depends upon your infection and the prescribed strength of the cream. Use the prescribed dosage carefully. Usually, a twice-a-day regime is followed and should not exceed 1 or 2 weeks according to the infection.
Side effects
Possible side effects with clotrimazole cream include;
- Swelling
- Irritation
- Hypopigmentation
- Dryness
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Vaginal discharge or itching and burning around the vulva (outside the vagina)
- Growth retardation may occur in some cases
- Hyperglycemia by systemic absorption may also occur
If you feel any of these side effects, seek professional advice, immediately.
Interactions
Clotrimazole shows no considerable interactions with other drugs. However, other steroids must not be used parallel to this cream.
Warnings and Precautions
- Clotrimazole cream is not advised for children under 17 years of age
- Clotrimazole should not be used for diaper dermatitis
- Do not exceed the prescribed dosage and duration of the medicine (1 week for Tinea cruris and Tinea corporis, 2 weeks for Tinea pedis
- Clotrimazole should only be used for the infection if it is prescribed
- Do not exceed the recommended dosage
- Other corticosteroids should not be used with clotrimazole
- Any signs of local or systemic adverse effects must be reported immediately
- Use the cream only for the condition prescribed. Do not recommend the medicine to others
- Contact the doctor or pharmacist immediately in case of any emergency
Clotrimazole in Pregnancy
Clotrimazole is contraindicated in pregnancy and is placed in ‘Category C’.
No human studies are available showing the teratogenic effects of clotrimazole in a fetus but animal studies support the evidence.
Overdose of Clotrimazole
- Clotrimazole cream should not be used greater than 45g/week
- Acute over dosage does not produce life-threatening effects
- Chronic overdose may produce systemic adverse effects (like growth retardation)
- However, it is not recommended to exceed the prescribed dosage and duration.
Storage conditions
The cream comes in 15g or 45g tubes. The proper storage conditions are:
- Store the cream in a cool (25 degrees Celsius) and dry place
- Keep out of the reach of children
Alternatives
Clotrimazole cream’s alternatives include antifungal creams like;
- Econazole
- Miconazole
- Terbinafine
- Griseofulvin
Marham’s Online Services for Delivering Medicines
Now that you know all about clotrimazole cream, Marham is here for you; you can purchase clotrimazole using Marham’s online medicine delivery services after consulting the best doctor for any fungal infection or related symptoms.
FAQS
1. What is Clotrimazole used for?
Clotrimazole is used to treat fungal infections of the skin or vagina including; athlete’s foot, vaginal thrush, and other ringworm infections
2. Where do you apply clotrimazole cream?
Clotrimazole is applied on the skin topically. Vaginal creams may be for external or internal vaginal application.
3. Does clotrimazole work quickly?
Clotrimazole usually treats thrush and fungal infections within 7 days but 2 weeks of usage is recommended. Follow your medical prescription for optimum therapeutic effects.