What is clotrimazole ointment for? (how to use and side effects)

Clotrimazole ointment is one of the best drugs to treat skin infections caused by fungi. Clotrimazole is an anti-fungal drug and treats all types of fungal infections in different parts of the body such as nails, vagina and different parts of the skin. In this article, you will get to know the uses of this magic ointment, which shows a wonderful result in the shortest possible time in improving fungal problems. Stay with this article from Positive Green Online Pharmacy magazine.

What is clotrimazole?

Clotrimazole is an antifungal drug that is often produced in the form of ointment, solution, lotion, vaginal tablet, etc. This medicine fights against fungal infections and eradicates the infection. Infections caused by fungi or yeast can affect different parts of the body, so they must be prevented from spreading. Clotrimazole destroys the infectious agent and improves the health of the body or skin. Clotrimazole can be used to treat skin infections such as athlete’s foot, jock itch (groin itch), ringworm fungal infection and many other problems.

The mechanism of action of clotrimazole ointment

Clotrimazole kills the fungus by making holes in its cell membrane and leaking the contents inside. The use of this drug locally inhibits the biosynthesis of ergosterol, which is one of the components of the fungal cell membrane. In this case, the cell will no longer have the ability to build a healthy and active cell membrane, and as a result, the fungus will be destroyed. Symptoms of fungal infection, such as itching or pain, should decrease and improve within a few days after using clotrimazole ointment. Of course, be careful that the redness of the skin and its scaling may require more time for complete recovery.

Who should not use clotrimazole?

Most children and adults can use clotrimazole ointment, spray and solution without any problems or risks. There is only one case in which this drug is contraindicated; That is, the person has already shown an allergic reaction to it. In this case, the doctor can be informed to prescribe another alternative medicine instead.

Common names and medicinal forms of Clotrimazole

Clotrimazole has other common names in our country. Among them: Afitrimazole, Canazol, Clogin and Candisol. All these names refer to clotrimazole 1%. The most common forms of clotrimazole are as follows:

• One percent topical ointment
• 2% vaginal cream
• 50 and 100 mg vaginal tablets
• 100 mg vaginal suppository
• 1% lotion
• 1% solution

How to use clotrimazole ointment 1%

It is better for a specialist doctor to determine how to use this ointment. But in general, clotrimazole ointment should be used 2 to 3 times a day. Usually, if you use it 3 times a day, you will get better results. If the affected area is large or hairy, it is better to use a solution or spray instead of an ointment. If you use Clotrimazole on your feet, be sure to wash and dry your feet (especially the toes) before use.

The duration of using clotrimazole ointment depends on the type of infection and its extent. It is better to use clotrimazole for at least 2 weeks. Even if all symptoms of infection have disappeared, it is necessary to apply this ointment to prevent its recurrence. If needed, it can be continued up to 4 weeks. Of course, we emphasize that the doctor’s prescription takes precedence over any other order.

To use clotrimazole ointment, after washing and drying your hands, apply about 0.5 cm of it on the affected area. Avoid applying this ointment near the lips, mouth and eyes. Try not to cover the treated skin area and allow air to circulate. Store clotrimazole cream at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.

What happens if we put too much clotrimazole on the skin?

If you use clotrimazole cream, spray or solution more than allowed, your skin may become irritated and red. If this happens, try to use this product less next time.

Clotrimazole use during pregnancy and breastfeeding

In general, the use of clotrimazole during pregnancy is completely safe. There is no scientific evidence that this drug should not be used during pregnancy. Clotrimazole can also be used during breastfeeding. If the infant is being treated for oral thrush, you can continue to breastfeed and apply clotrimazole cream to the nipple and around it after each feeding.

Clotrimazole ointment side effects

Like any other drug, Clotromazole can cause side effects in some people. The most common side effects of clotrimazole topical cream are as follows:

• Skin irritation and redness
• Burning sensation or slight pain

If these side effects do not disappear, try to use a smaller amount of cream or stop the treatment altogether and consult a doctor.

In very rare cases, some people may experience a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) after using clotrimazole. Symptoms of allergy to this drug include: skin rash with itching, redness, swelling or blisters, wheezing, throat tightness, difficulty breathing, and swelling in the face and mouth. In these cases, emergency services should be contacted immediately.

Clotrimazole drug interactions

Other medications you take by mouth or by injection are unlikely to have an effect on topical clotrimazole. But since in general, many drugs can neutralize each other’s effect and affect each other’s absorption, if you are using a specific drug, consult your doctor about using Clotrimazole.

Avoid using other skin medications in the areas treated with topical clotrimazole; Unless your doctor has advised you to do so.

What is clotrimazole vaginal and what is its use?

Clotrimazole vaginal can be used to treat vaginal fungal infections in adults and children over 12 years old. This drug belongs to a group of antifungal drugs called imidazoles. This medicine works by stopping the growth of the fungi that cause the infection. How do we know if we have a vaginal yeast infection? If you see the following symptoms, you should suspect that you may have a vaginal infection; So you need to see a doctor:

• Itching, pain, burning and inflammation in the vagina
• White discharge, thick and cheese-like
• Burning during urination
• Pain during intercourse

By examining the vaginal secretions, the doctor can determine whether it is a fungal infection or not. Then, if necessary, he prescribes clotrimazole vaginal cream. It is often recommended to use 1 applicator per day. If there is no need to use this cream inside the vaginal area, you can use clotrimazole 2% vaginal ointment to relieve burning and itching.

How to use clotrimazole vaginal

Follow the steps below to use this cream:

• Fill the applicator that you bought with the cream up to the indicated level with the cream.
• Lie down, spread your legs and lift them up. Bend the knees.
• Insert the applicator slowly into the vagina, press the plunger to inject the cream into the vagina.
• If the applicator is disposable, throw it away and if it is reusable, wash it with soap and water.
• Depending on the doctor’s order, you should continue the treatment for 3 to 7 days in a row to get the result.

Make sure that during the treatment period you should avoid having sex and even do not use sexual products such as lubricant gel, vaginal douche, etc.

Clotrimazole drops for nail fungus

In order to treat nail fungus, you can use clotrimazole drops, solution or cream. Symptoms of nail fungus include the following:

• Yellowing of nails
• A white spot on the nail (which gradually gets bigger)
• Loosening of the nail from the bed

To use Clotrimazole drops or cream on the nail, you must first remove the nail polish and then apply it on the nail while the nail is completely dry. Complete the course of treatment as prescribed by your doctor so that the fungus is completely gone from your nails.

Clotrimazole drops to treat ear infections

Clotrimazole 1% solution is used to treat fungal infections in the ear. 2 to 3 drops of the solution should be used 2 to 3 times a day. You should continue the treatment for at least 14 days until the ear infection is completely gone. Of course, we emphasize again that the doctor’s order comes first.

Dosage of Clotrimazole

The dosage of clotrimazole cream, drops or ointment is different in different patients. To know the amount of consumption, you must consider the doctor’s opinion, but in general, the following values ​​are indicated:

• The dose, frequency and time of taking this medicine depends on the exact problem you have.
• Clotrimazole cream, lotion and solution should be used twice a day (morning and evening) to treat fungal infections in adults and children.

Necessary precautions when using clotrimazole ointment

Pay attention to the following:

• Overuse of clotrimazole does not lead to faster recovery. So do not arbitrarily increase the dosage.
• Clotrimazole cream should not come into contact with eyes and mouth. If this happens, wash immediately with plenty of water.
• Do not use vaginal clotrimazole with tampons.
• If the fungal infection does not improve or worsens after 4 weeks of taking this medicine, be sure to see your doctor again.
• Protect Clotrimazole from freezing.
• Clotrimazole drops should not be used in your ears at the same time as other drops.
• Consult your doctor about the simultaneous use of Clotrimazole and other herbal medicines.

last word

Clotrimazole ointment is one of the best treatments for fungal infections. Right after about 3 days of starting the treatment with this drug, you can feel the satisfactory results. But it is usually recommended to continue the treatment for 14 days. Although you may be able to get clotrimazole without a doctor’s prescription, it is still recommended to consult a doctor about its use and dosage so that you don’t have any problems.

Frequently asked questions about Clotrimazole