Is Clotrimazole Good for Fungal Infection?

Clotrimazole cream should be applied 3-4 times a day to the affected area of the skin for 2-4 weeks. Use a cotton swab or clean fingers to apply the cream to your skin. It should be applied in a thin layer and not be rubbed in.

The strength of the active ingredient (clotrimazole) varies with different products. It is therefore important to read and follow the drug facts label. Most medications advise against using an active ingredient for more than 7-10 days in a row. If your symptoms persist beyond 4 weeks, discontinue the use of the medication and consult your doctor.

Clotrimazole has been approved by the FDA and is both safe and effective when used as directed. Here are some precautions to take when using clotrimazole for various conditions:

• Jock itch
  • Thoroughly clean and dry the groin area
  • Avoid underwear made of synthetic fibers, such as nylon or rayon; instead, use cotton underwear and loose boxers
  • Avoid tight clothing
• Athlete's foot
  • Avoid wearing tight or closed-toed shoes
  • Allow your skin to breathe and avoid sweating
  • Do not wear socks made of synthetic or woolen materials
• Candida infection
  • Thoroughly wash the affected area with water
  • Avoid using soaps in the vaginal area
  • Apply the ointment to dry skin
  • Avoid tight underwear or those made with synthetic fabrics
  • Wear loose cotton clothing
  • If you have excessive sweating, consult your doctor and request a drying or soothing antifungal dusting powder
• Hand or nail infections
  • Apply to clean, dry skin
  • Avoid wearing gloves as it can cause the skin to sweat

Do not use clotrimazole unless prescribed by a doctor. Only use in the infected areas under strict supervision. Keep the product out of your eyes, nose, ears, and mouth.

Common side effects of clotrimazole include:

• Irritation at the site of the application
• Itching
• Redness
• Pain or burning sensation
• Blistering of skin
• Oozing from open sores
• Stinging

Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) may include:

• Trouble breathing
• Wheezing
• Hives
• Swelling of tongue, lips, throat, and face
• Fainting

Clotrimazole is an antifungal cream that should only be used on the advice of a doctor because it can cause skin irritation and worsen an existing skin infection. Though it is generally regarded as safe, it should be avoided in certain circumstances:

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Although no major study has reported that using this cream during pregnancy or breastfeeding is harmful, it is best to avoid it if not prescribed by a doctor. Because it is a highly reactive cream, applying it to an infected lactating nipple may cause harm to the infant.
• Children: Clotrimazole should be avoided in children unless prescribed by a doctor since the side effects of this cream could be too much for children to handle.
• Acne sufferers: Clotrimazole cream cannot be used to treat acne or pimples. Avoid applying this cream to your face. It should only be used if you have been diagnosed with a fungal infection.

Combining clotrimazole with other medications is typically not advised but could be necessary in some cases.

In such cases, your doctor may adjust the dose or frequency of one or both medications and ask you to take other precautions. Inform your doctor of all current medications you are taking while using clotrimazole. Drugs and other substances that have potential interactions with clotrimazole include:

• Tacrolimus 
• Trimetrexate 
• Alcohol 
• Tobacco