CLOTRIMAZOLE

'Clotrimazole' is an antifungal medication commonly used in the treatment of fungal infections of both humans and animals such as vaginal yeast infections and ringworm. It also used to treat athlete's foot and jock itch.

Contents

Indications and formulations

Drug interactions

Side effects

External links

Indications and formulations

It is commonly available as an over-the-counter substance in various dosage forms, such as a cream, and also (especially in the case of ear infection) as a combination medicine. In the latter case, it typically includes an antibiotic such as Marbofloxacin, and is applied in liquid form, as ear drops.
Fungal infections can be slow to clear up, so the usual course for an anti-fungal agent is generally longer than the typical 3-7 days of an antibiotic.
Women who suffer from vaginal yeast infections, such as candidiasis, can buy clotrimazole at a pharmacy. However, women should contact their doctor on the first occurrence of a vaginal yeast infection instead of self-diagnosing.
In the UK, Australia, Canada, Germany, and parts of Latin America and the Caribbean the drug is marketed under the name Canesten. In the US it is marketed as Lotrimin or Lotrimin AF.

Drug interactions

There is the potential for drug interactions with Clotrimazole if taken orally, as it is a potent, specific inhibitor of cytochrome P450 oxidase enzymes and so may alter the metabolism of other drugs.

Side effects

Occasionally may cause localised irritation of the skin with a mild burning sensation, redness and itching.

External links

★ MedlinePlus - Clotrimazole