Clotrim Cream

Uses of Clotrim Cream

• Fungal Infections

How does Clotrim Cream work?

Clotrim Cream kills fungal cells by altering their cell wall's permeability and inhibiting processes necessary for cell membrane production. This results in cell death due to the loss of intracellular elements.

Side Effects of Clotrim Cream

• Burning sensation at the application site
• Itching, redness, or irritation at the application site
• Skin rash and peeling

Quick Suggestions:

• Clotrim Cream is a topical antifungal medicine used to treat yeast infections of the skin, vagina, ear, and ringworm infections.
• This medicine is meant for external application and should not be ingested.
• Wash your hands before and after using this medicine unless your hands are to be treated.
• Do not use more than the prescribed amount of this medicine or do not use it for longer periods of time than recommended by your doctor.
• Before using Clotrim Cream, please discuss with your doctor if you have any other skin conditions.
• If you experience any side effects after using this medicine, talk to your doctor.
• Do not give this medicine to anyone else, even if they have the same condition as you do.

Indication of Clotrim Cream

Clotrim Cream is an antifungal medicine used to treat fungal infections of your skin. It works by stopping the growth of the infection-causing fungi.

Pharmacology

Clotrimazole works mainly by destroying the osmotic barrier in the fungal cell membrane. Clotrimazole inhibits the biosynthesis of ergosterol, which is an important component of fungal cell membranes. If the synthesis of ergosterol is completely or partially inhibited, the cell can no longer build a complete and functional cell membrane. Since ergosterol directly promotes the growth of fungal cells in a hormone-like manner, the rapid occurrence of the above events results in a dose-dependent inhibition of fungal growth. 

Although it is recognized that the reduction of ergosterol due to the inhibition of lanosterol 14 demethylase (also known as CYP51) is the main reason for the antifungal properties of clotrimazole, the drug also shows other pharmacological effects. These include inhibition of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2 + ATPase, consumption of intracellular calcium, and blockade of calcium-dependent potassium channels and voltage-dependent calcium channels. The effects of clotrimazole on these targets explain other effects of the drug that differ from its antifungal activity.

Dosage & Administration of Clotrim 1% Cream

Adult Dose:

• Skin and nail fungal infections: Apply 2 or 3 times daily. Onychomycosis for 6 months. Tinea pedis and dermatomycoses for 4 weeks.

Child Dose:

• Tinea Corporis/Tinea Pedis: Apply to the affected area every 12 hours for 4 weeks.
• Tinea Cruris (over 2 years): Apply to the affected area every 12 hours for 2 weeks.
• Candidiasis: Gently massage sufficient clotrimazole into the affected and surrounding area every 12 hours; reconsider diagnosis if no improvement after 4 weeks.
• Tinea Versicolor: Gently massage sufficient clotrimazole into the affected and surrounding area every 12 hours; reconsider diagnosis if no improvement after 4 weeks.

Administration:

• Use Clotrim Cream as directed by your doctor.
• It is meant for external use only.
• The dosage and length of treatment depend on the type of infection to be treated.
• Ensure the area is cleaned and dried before application.
• Apply it on a healthy skin surface free from cuts and wounds.
• Wash your hands before and after using this medicine unless your hands are the area to be treated.

Interaction

Clotrimazole, the active ingredient in Clotrim Cream, may exhibit antagonism (reduced effectiveness) when used in combination with polyene antibiotics. Polyene antibiotics are a class of antifungal medications that includes drugs like amphotericin B and nystatin, which work by targeting the fungal cell membrane.

When clotrimazole is used together with polyene antibiotics, their antifungal actions may interfere with each other, leading to reduced efficacy in treating fungal infections. Therefore, it is generally not recommended to use clotrimazole along with polyene antibiotics unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare professional and closely monitored for potential interactions. It is essential to follow the guidance of your doctor or healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Contraindications

If you are allergic to clotrimazole or any of the components of Clotrim Cream.

Pregnancy & Lactation

When using clotrimazole during pregnancy, it's important to note that only minimal amounts are typically absorbed systemically when applied topically or vaginally. However, it's advisable to use clotrimazole during pregnancy only when deemed necessary and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Regarding breastfeeding, there is limited information available about the excretion of clotrimazole in breast milk. Therefore, caution is advised when using clotrimazole while breastfeeding, and it's recommended to consult a healthcare provider before doing so.

Precautions & Warnings

Avoid getting the medication in your eyes when applying topically. It should not be used in children under three years of age, during pregnancy, or while breastfeeding. If you experience local intolerance, discontinue the medication and seek appropriate treatment. When using it during lactation, exercise caution as excretion in breast milk is unknown.

Storage Conditions

Keep below 25°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.