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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Antifungal 1% Clotrimazole Cream
Brand Name
Antifungal 1% Clotrimazole Cream
Generic Name
Antifungal 1% Clotrimazole Cream
Active Ingredient
ClotrimazoleCategory
Azole Antifungal [EPC]
Variants
2
Different strengths and dosage forms
| Strength | Form | Route | NDC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 g/100mL | CREAM | TOPICAL | 64412-2010 |
| 1 g/100mL | CREAM | TOPICAL | 70856-3585 |
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Before using any prescription or over-the-counter medication for Antifungal 1% Clotrimazole Cream, you must consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Detailed information about Antifungal 1% Clotrimazole Cream
Clotrimazole is a broad-spectrum azole antifungal agent used to treat a variety of fungal infections, including athlete's foot, ringworm, and vaginal yeast infections, by inhibiting fungal cell membrane synthesis.
Dosage varies significantly based on the formulation and the condition being treated. According to clinical guidelines:
Because systemic absorption of topical and vaginal clotrimazole is minimal, no dosage adjustments are generally required for patients with kidney disease. For oral troches, renal adjustment is also typically unnecessary due to hepatic metabolism.
Patients with severe liver impairment should be monitored closely when using oral troches, as the drug is metabolized by the liver. Topical and vaginal forms do not require adjustment.
No specific dosage adjustments are required for geriatric patients. However, healthcare providers should consider the increased prevalence of skin fragility and potential polypharmacy (use of multiple medications) in this population.
If you miss a dose, apply or take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Systemic overdose from topical or vaginal application is highly unlikely. If the oral troches are consumed in large quantities, symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, or dizziness. In case of accidental ingestion by a child, contact a Poison Control Center or emergency room immediately.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions. Do not adjust your dose or stop treatment early, even if symptoms improve, as the infection may return.
Side effects of clotrimazole are generally localized to the site of application and are mild in nature. For topical and vaginal forms, common reactions include:
These effects typically resolve within a few minutes or after the first few days of treatment as the body adjusts to the medication.
Clotrimazole is for external or local use only. It should never be used in the eyes. If the medication comes into contact with the eyes, rinse thoroughly with cool water. Patients should be aware that while symptoms may improve within a few days, the full course of treatment must be completed to ensure the fungus is completely eradicated.
No FDA black box warnings for Clotrimazole. It has a well-established safety profile spanning over five decades of clinical use.
Because topical and vaginal clotrimazole have minimal systemic absorption, there are no absolute drug-drug contraindications for these forms. However, for the oral troche, the following should be avoided:
Clotrimazole must NEVER be used in the following circumstances:
Conditions requiring careful risk-benefit analysis include:
Clotrimazole is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category B. This means that animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus, and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
It is not known whether clotrimazole is excreted in human milk. However, because systemic absorption after topical or vaginal application is so low, it is considered unlikely to pose a risk to the nursing infant. If applying to the breast area for a fungal infection, the skin should be washed thoroughly before breastfeeding to prevent the infant from directly ingesting the cream.
Clotrimazole is an imidazole antifungal that works by inhibiting the enzyme lanosterol 14-alpha-demethylase. This enzyme is a member of the cytochrome P450 family and is responsible for converting lanosterol into ergosterol. Ergosterol is the primary sterol found in fungal cell membranes. By depleting ergosterol and causing the accumulation of toxic methylated sterols, clotrimazole disrupts the membrane's permeability. This leads to the leakage of intracellular components and eventual cell lysis. Furthermore, at high concentrations, clotrimazole may also inhibit fungal mitochondrial and peroxisomal enzymes, leading to a toxic buildup of hydrogen peroxide within the fungal cell.
Clotrimazole is primarily fungistatic (inhibits growth) but can be fungicidal (kills fungi) at higher concentrations or against specific organisms. The onset of action for symptom relief (itching/burning) is typically within 24 to 48 hours, though the infection itself takes longer to clear. It has a broad spectrum of activity, covering most Candida species and dermatophytes.
| Parameter | Value |
Common questions about Antifungal 1% Clotrimazole Cream
Clotrimazole is a versatile antifungal medication primarily used to treat localized fungal infections of the skin, mouth, and vagina. Its most common applications include treating athlete's foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), and ringworm (tinea corporis). It is also highly effective against vaginal yeast infections and oral thrush, which are caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast. Additionally, it can treat tinea versicolor, a condition that causes patches of skin discoloration. Your doctor may prescribe it in various forms, such as creams, lotions, or lozenges, depending on the site of your infection.
The most common side effects of clotrimazole are localized skin or mucosal reactions at the site of application. Patients often report mild stinging, burning, or redness immediately after applying the cream or inserting a vaginal tablet. Itching and general irritation are also frequently noted as the medication begins to work against the fungus. These symptoms are usually temporary and do not require the discontinuation of treatment. If you experience severe blistering, swelling, or an spreading rash, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately. Most people tolerate the medication very well with minimal discomfort.
For the topical and vaginal forms of clotrimazole, there are no known interactions with alcohol, as very little of the drug enters your bloodstream. You can generally consume alcohol in moderation without affecting the efficacy of the treatment. However, if you are using the oral troche (lozenge) for thrush, alcohol might irritate the sensitive tissues in your mouth and could potentially interfere with the local healing process. It is always wise to consult your doctor about alcohol consumption if you are feeling unwell due to an infection. Excessive alcohol can also weaken the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off the fungus.
Clotrimazole is generally considered one of the safest antifungal options during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters. Topical creams used on the skin are safe because almost none of the medication is absorbed into the systemic circulation. For vaginal yeast infections during pregnancy, healthcare providers often recommend clotrimazole, but they may advise against using the plastic applicator to prevent irritation to the cervix. Instead, you might be told to insert the tablet or cream by hand. Always consult your obstetrician before starting any medication while pregnant to ensure it is appropriate for your specific health needs.
The time it takes for clotrimazole to work can vary based on the severity and location of the infection. Most patients begin to feel relief from itching and burning within 24 to 48 hours of starting treatment. However, even if your symptoms disappear quickly, it is crucial to finish the entire course prescribed by your doctor—often 7 to 14 days for yeast infections and up to 4 weeks for athlete's foot. Stopping too early can allow the remaining fungi to regrow, leading to a relapse. If you see no improvement after several days of consistent use, you should contact your healthcare provider for a re-evaluation.
While you can stop taking clotrimazole suddenly without experiencing withdrawal symptoms, doing so before the infection is fully cleared is highly discouraged. Fungal infections are persistent, and the disappearance of surface symptoms like redness or itching does not always mean the fungus is completely gone. If you stop treatment prematurely, the infection is likely to return, potentially more resistant to the medication than before. Always complete the full duration of the treatment plan as directed on the product packaging or by your physician. If you are experiencing bothersome side effects, talk to your doctor about alternatives rather than simply stopping.
If you miss a dose of clotrimazole, apply it as soon as you remember to maintain the consistency of the treatment. If it is almost time for your next scheduled application, skip the missed dose and return to your regular routine. You should never apply extra cream or use double the amount of medication to make up for a missed dose, as this will not speed up the healing process and may increase the risk of skin irritation. Consistency is key to successfully treating fungal infections. Try to set a reminder on your phone or keep the medication in a visible place to help you remember your daily applications.
There is no clinical evidence to suggest that clotrimazole causes weight gain. Because it is primarily used topically or locally, the amount of medication that reaches the rest of your body is extremely small. It does not affect your metabolism, appetite, or hormone levels in a way that would lead to changes in body weight. If you notice unexpected weight gain while using this medication, it is likely due to other factors such as diet, lifestyle, or a different underlying medical condition. You should discuss any significant changes in your weight with your healthcare provider to determine the cause.
Topical and vaginal clotrimazole are generally safe to use alongside other systemic medications because they have very low absorption into the bloodstream. However, you should avoid using other topical creams or ointments on the same area of skin at the same time, as they may interfere with clotrimazole's absorption. For the oral troche form, there are potential interactions with certain drugs like tacrolimus or sirolimus, as it can affect how your liver processes them. Additionally, vaginal clotrimazole can weaken latex condoms, so alternative contraception is needed. Always provide your doctor with a full list of all medications and supplements you are currently using.
Yes, clotrimazole is widely available as a generic medication and is often much more affordable than brand-name versions. Generic versions are required by the FDA to have the same active ingredient, strength, and efficacy as the brand-name products like Lotrimin or Mycelex. You can find generic clotrimazole 1% cream over-the-counter in most pharmacies and grocery stores for treating skin infections. Prescription-strength versions and oral troches are also available as generics. Whether you choose a brand-name or a generic product, the antifungal action remains the same, provided you follow the application instructions carefully.
Other drugs with the same active ingredient (Clotrimazole)
While clotrimazole is very safe, severe allergic reactions can occur.
> Warning: Stop taking Clotrimazole and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these:
Clotrimazole is intended for short-term use (usually 1 to 4 weeks). Prolonged or repetitive use without medical supervision can lead to:
No FDA black box warnings for Clotrimazole. It is considered one of the safer antifungal agents available, often provided over-the-counter (OTC) for most indications.
Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider. If you notice a side effect not listed here, contact the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Clotrimazole has no known effect on the ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. It does not cause sedation or cognitive impairment.
There are no direct contraindications regarding alcohol use with topical or vaginal clotrimazole. However, for oral troches, alcohol may exacerbate potential liver stress or cause local irritation to the oral mucosa already sensitized by a fungal infection.
There is no withdrawal syndrome associated with stopping clotrimazole. However, premature discontinuation is the leading cause of treatment failure and recurrent infections. Always complete the prescribed duration.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions with your healthcare provider before starting Clotrimazole, especially if you have a history of liver disease or are immunocompromised.
Clotrimazole does not typically interfere with standard blood or urine laboratory tests. However, it may interfere with certain fungal culture results if the sample is taken while the medication is still present on the skin or in the vagina.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Even topical medications can sometimes interact with systemic drugs.
Patients who have experienced a severe reaction to other imidazole antifungals—including miconazole (Monistat), ketoconazole (Nizoral), or econazole (Spectazole)—are at a higher risk of reacting to clotrimazole. This cross-sensitivity occurs because these drugs share a similar chemical structure. If you have had a rash or hives from one 'azole' drug, consult your pharmacist before using another.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history before prescribing Clotrimazole. Ensure they are aware of any past allergic reactions to medications.
Clinical studies did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine if they respond differently than younger subjects. In general, elderly patients may have thinner skin, which could theoretically increase absorption, but this has not been shown to be clinically significant. No dosage adjustment is required based on age alone.
No dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with renal impairment. The drug is primarily cleared via hepatic metabolism and fecal excretion, with less than 1% of a systemic dose excreted in the urine.
For topical and vaginal use, no adjustment is needed. For oral troches, patients with liver cirrhosis or other hepatic diseases should be monitored for elevations in liver enzymes, as the drug is metabolized by the CYP450 system.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
| Bioavailability | Topical: <0.5%; Vaginal: 3-10% |
| Protein Binding | ~90% (if systemically absorbed) |
| Half-life | 3.5 - 5 hours |
| Tmax | 2 - 6 hours (Vaginal) |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (CYP3A4) |
| Excretion | Fecal (>90%), Renal (<1%) |
Clotrimazole belongs to the Imidazole class of antifungals. Related medications include miconazole, ketoconazole, and oxiconazole. It is distinct from the Triazole class (e.g., fluconazole, itraconazole), which generally has better systemic absorption and is used for internal infections.