Clotrimazole

Clotrimazole is the active ingredient of A-Por, Canalba, Candaspor, Candizole, Candizole V, Canesten, Canesten One, Canesten Troche, Canex, Closcript, Covospor, Fungispor T, Fungispor V, Medaspor, Micomisan, Normospor, Trimaze and Xeraspor.

Clotrimazole is also one of multiple active ingredients found in Lotriderm (Betamethasone + Clotrimazole).

General Information

Fungal and/or yeast infections are common on the skin and mucous membranes. Clotrimazole is a medication used to treat such infections, including ringworm, athlete's foot, jock itch and vaginal/oral thrush.

Systemic side effects of clotrimazole are minimal, but local irritation may occur if applied to broken skin.

How does clotrimazole work?

Clotrimazole interferes with the formation of cell walls/membranes of species sensitive to the medication, thereby either inhibiting growth or killing the organism.

Fast facts

Drug schedule: Schedule 2, 4

Available as: Clotrimazole is available as topical cream, vaginal cream, oral lozenges and pessaries.

What does it do? Clotrimazole is an anti-fungal and anti-yeast drug.

Overdose risk: Low

Dependence risk: Low

Is clotrimazole available as a generic ? Yes

Is clotrimazole available on prescription only? Yes

User information

Onset of effect: Within 2 days

Duration of action: Up to 12 hours

Stopping this medicine: Complete the full course as prescribed or recommended even if symptoms disappear before completion. Symptoms may recur with premature discontinuation.

Prolonged use: No problems expected with topical use.

Special precautions

Consult your doctor before using this drug if:

• you are taking other medication.

Pregnancy: Clotrimazole can be used, but only on the advice of a doctor.

Breastfeeding: Avoid. This medication is passed through breast milk and may affect your baby adversely. Consult your doctor before use.

Porphyria: Avoid. It is unknown how this medication may affect your condition. Consult your doctor before use.

Infants and children: This medication is safe for use in children at the recommended dose.

Elderly: No special precautions need to be taken.

Driving and hazardous work: No special precautions need to be taken.

Alcohol: No special precautions need to be taken.

Possible side effects

Overdose action

A small overdose is no cause for concern. In case of intentional large overdose, seek emergency medical attention.

Recommended dosage

Topical application: Apply 2 times daily

Oral lozenge: 1 lozenge 3-5 times per day