What is clotrimazole, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?

Clotrimazole is an anti-fungal medication related to fluconazole (Diflucan), ketoconazole (Nizoral), itraconazole (Sporanox), and miconazole (Micatin, Monistat). It prevents growth of several types of fungi by preventing interfering with the production of the membrane that surrounds fungal cells. It is used topically on the skin, inserted vaginally or allowed to dissolve in the mouth for local fungal infections.

What brand names are available for clotrimazole?

Lotrimin AF, Gyne-Lotrimin, Alevazol, Desenex

Is clotrimazole available as a generic drug?

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

Do I need a prescription for clotrimazole?

Yes, for some brands and/or preparations

What are the uses for clotrimazole?

Clotrimazole is used for the treatment of local fungal infections due to Candida albicans, including the following:

• vaginal yeast infections ,
• oral thrush,
• tinea versicolor,
• tinea pedis ("athlete's foot"),
• tinea cruris ("jock itch") or
• tinea corporis.

What are the side effects of clotrimazole?

The most commonly noted side effects associated with clotrimazole include:

• local redness,
• stinging,
• blistering,
• peeling,
• swelling,
• itching,
• hives, or
• burning at the area of application.

Other side effects include nausea and vomiting, which may be caused by the oral forms.

What is the dosage for clotrimazole?

The troche (lozenge) should slowly dissolve in the mouth. One troche is administered 5 times daily for 14 days. Clotrimazole cream, lotion, or solution is applied to the affected and surrounding skin areas, generally twice daily in the morning and evening.

The vaginal cream is inserted via applicator once daily, preferably at night, for 7 consecutive days.

The 100 mg vaginal suppository is inserted once daily, preferably at bedtime, for 7 consecutive days.

The 200 mg vaginal suppository is inserted once daily for 3 days, preferably at bedtime.

Is clotrimazole safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

: Clotrimazole is very poorly absorbed into the blood and the body after application to the skin or the vagina. Studies in women in their second or third trimesters of pregnancy have demonstrated no ill effects. No data is available in pregnant women during their first trimester. Rats given large amounts of clotrimazole via the vagina have demonstrated no ill effects. The oral troche has not been adequately evaluated in pregnant women.

It is not known if clotrimazole is secreted in breast milk.

What else should I know about clotrimazole?

What preparations of clotrimazole are available?

• Topical cream, solution or lotion: 1%
• Buccal troche: 10 mg
• Vaginal suppositories: 100 and 200 mg
• Vaginal cream: 1% and 2%

How should I keep clotrimazole stored?

Cream, lotion, solution and troche should be stored between 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F). Vaginal suppositories should be stored between 15 C to 30 C (59 F to 86 F).