What is clotrimazole cream used for? The main purposes, composition and possible negative consequences of the use of clotrimazole

Being one of the most effective antifungal drugs, Clotrimazole is prescribed for the complex treatment of various skin infections caused by excessive reproduction of Corynebacterium minutissimum and Malassezia furfur. Having a simple method of application and a significant content of the active substance in the preparation, Clotrimazole is well tolerated by patients even with high sensitivity and has a small number of contraindications for use.

In the article, we will consider instructions for use, price, analogues of Clotrimazole and reviews of doctors and patients about it.

Features of the drug

This drug has the greatest effect in the development of diseases caused by molds, yeast fungi, as well as dermatophytes and other pathogens that are sensitive to the effects of clotrimazole, the active substance of the drug.

For information on what Clotrimazole is, see the video below:

Composition of Clotrimazole

The main active ingredient is clotrimazole, which contains 10 mg per 1 g of the product (meaning the conversion to dry matter 100%). Auxiliary components include the following components:

  • polyethylene glycol cetostearyl ether;
  • propylene glycol;
  • cetostearyl alcohol;
  • polyethylene glycol 400;
  • proxanol 268.

Externally, the drug is an ointment that has a white color, a homogeneous consistency, with a slight specific medicinal odor.

Dosage forms

On sale, the drug is offered in the form of aluminum tubes with bushes, which have an internal varnish coating, which has a permit for use. A tube with a leaflet describing the composition and method of application is in a carton box.

Clotrimazole is also sold in the following forms:

  • vaginal tablets, which have the appearance of a box with slightly rounded corners. They contain 100 mg of the active substance. There are 6 of them in a blister;
  • ointment (cream), having a white color and a uniform consistency, for outdoor use. The active substance in the ointment is 10 mg per 1 g of ointment. The ointment is packaged in tubes of 30 g, 20 g. Vaginal cream 2% is offered in tubes of 50 g;
  • solution used also for outdoor use. The solution (1%) is packaged in orange bottles and their volume can be 15 or 30 ml.

The cost of the drug may vary: vaginal pharmacies offer tablets at a price of 35 to 60 rubles. A solution of various volumes - at a price of 96 to 123 rubles per bottle, and an ointment - also, depending on the volume of the tube, at a price of 180-215 rubles.

pharmachologic effect

A feature of Clotrimazole should be considered its rapid penetration into the upper layer of the epidermis and the immediate onset of exposure to yeast fungi. At the same time, the rate of reproduction of fungi is sharply limited, the possibility for their further spread is reduced, and improvements in the condition of the skin appear.

Pharmacodynamics

Clotrimazole, penetrating the skin within 30-45 minutes after its application, destroys the cell membranes of fungi, preventing the absorption of nutrients from the environment. Without a negative effect on the composition of the blood, the drug penetrates into all layers of the epidermis and adversely affects the colonies of Corynebacterium minutissimum and Malassezia furfur.

Pharmacokinetics

Due to the rapid rate of absorption of the active substance of the drug into the skin, the most rapid effect on the cause of the disease occurs: the skin is cleansed, its surface is leveled and functions are restored.

Excretion of the decay products of the drug is carried out by the kidneys. Negative effects on the body during absorption of the product in the absence of increased sensitivity of the skin to the components of Clotrimazole have not been identified.

The active substance can penetrate the tissues of the placenta and enter the body of the fetus, for this reason, careful administration of Clotrimazole during pregnancy or when pregnancy is suspected is required. Pregnant women can use the drug in the case where its benefit outweighs the likely negative effects on the fetus. When breastfeeding, Clotrimazole is prescribed as needed; before feeding, the mammary glands should be thoroughly wiped to avoid getting the drug into the body of the newborn.

From what, besides the fungus, Clotrimazole helps, this video will tell:

Indications

Clotrimazole is prescribed for many lesions of the upper layer of the skin. Due to the high activity of the active substance, it has a rapid effect on the foci of infection and a noticeable improvement in the skin condition after 1.5-2 weeks from the start of the application.

The drug is prescribed in the presence of the following diseases and conditions:

  • skin infections, which are caused by mold, yeast and other fungi, as well as dermatophytes and other types of pathogens;
  • diseases that have arisen in the layers of the skin under the influence of excessively active reproduction in it of Corynebacterium minutissimum (erythrasma) and Malassezia furfur ( multi-colored);
  • for the treatment of inflammation,;
  • during treatment.

Usually, the drug is recommended by a dermatologist, who, when drawing up a treatment regimen, takes into account the general condition of the body, the presence of hypersensitivity to the components of the drug, however, Clotrimazole is sold in pharmacies without the need for a prescription, which allows it to be used in the presence of severe skin lesions on its own. In this case, it is mandatory to carefully study the attached instructions.

Instruction

Before using the antifungal drug in question, the surface of the affected skin should be thoroughly cleaned using soap and plenty of water. The pH value must be neutral. After that, dry the skin and apply ointment (cream) to the affected areas, which is evenly distributed over it. The amount of ointment depends on the area of ​​the lesion.

After application, the ointment should be rubbed lightly: this will allow it to be absorbed faster and increase the degree of exposure to the active substance. The first manifestations of improvement in the skin condition usually begin to appear after 1.5-2 weeks from the start of treatment. Also, the final effect depends on the degree of skin damage and its susceptibility to the active substance.

After the appearance of the first manifestations of improvement, it is recommended to continue using the drug for another two weeks to consolidate the effect obtained.

Depending on the type of disease, the duration of treatment is also prescribed:

  • with multi-colored lichen, the ointment is used for 1-3 weeks;
  • with dermatomycosis of various origins - 3-4 weeks;
  • in the treatment of erythrasma, 2.5-4 weeks of Clotrimazole is usually sufficient.

If a pronounced improvement in the skin condition does not occur after 4 weeks of continuous use of the drug, you should inform the dermatologist about this and make adjustments to the proposed treatment regimen.

In the presence of impaired liver or kidney function, the applied dose of the drug used does not change.

Contraindications

  • Excessive sensitivity to the active substance of the drug or to its other components should be considered contraindications to the use of Clotrimazole.
  • Also, some caution should be observed when prescribing the drug during pregnancy and lactation.

Side effects

The most common side effects when using Clotrimazole usually include:

special instructions

Pregnancy and lactation are special cases in which special care should be taken when prescribing Clotrimazole. If there is more benefit for a pregnant woman than a negative effect of the drug on the fetus, Clotrimazole can be prescribed, but you should always be under the supervision of a doctor.

Interaction with other drugs

Strengthening the antifungal effect of elevated concentrations of propyl ester of hydroxybenzoic acid allows the use of these substances together without reducing the effect of exposure. However, Clotrimazole lowers the degree of exposure to nystatin, amphotericin, natamycin.

When using Clotrimazole in significant concentrations on the affected areas of the skin, it increases the degree of its effectiveness.

Content

To eliminate causative agents of lichen, with fungal infections, the antibacterial drug Clotrimazole is prescribed - the instructions for use of which include information on the dosage and method of use. This medication with antimycotic action does not belong to antibiotics, but it has a detrimental effect on microorganisms. Familiarize yourself with the indications for its use, possible side effects described in the instructions.

clotrimazole for fungus

According to the pharmacological classification, Clotrimazole is included in the group of drugs with an antifungal effect and a wide spectrum of action. With it, you can eliminate signs of multi-colored lichen, fungal manifestations on the skin and mucous membranes of the genital tract. A remedy with an antimycotic effect is used topically, externally or intravaginally, has several different forms of release. It is approved for use by children and adults.

Composition and form of release

There are six forms of release of the drug: cream, ointment, gel, solution, vaginal suppositories and tablets. Check out the detailed composition of each medicine:

clotrimazole concentration

Auxiliary components

Description

Package

1 g per 100 g

Cetostearyl and benzyl alcohol, sorbitan stearate, octyldodecanol, polysorbate, water, synthetic spermaceti

White, uniform

Aluminum tube 20 g

Monoglycerides, cetostearyl alcohol, castor oil, emulsion wax, polysorbate, glycerol, methyl and propyl parahydroxybenzoate, propylene glycol, water

White-yellowish with a slight odor

15 and 30 g aluminum tubes

10 mg per 1 g

Ethyl alcohol, glycerol, macrogol, carbomer, sage extract, propylene glycol

Homogeneous transparent gel with sage aroma

20 and 40 g aluminum tubes

10 mg per 1 ml

Ethanol, propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol

Clear colorless liquid

25 ml, glass bottles with applicators

Vaginal suppositories

100 mg per 1 pc.

Semi-synthetic glycerides

Cylindrical-conical shape, white-yellow color, on the cut there is an air rod or a recess in the form of a funnel

6 pcs. in blisters

Vaginal tablets

Magnesium stearate, adipic acid, lactose monohydrate, sodium bicarbonate, potato starch, sodium lauryl sulfate, colloidal silicon dioxide

white oblong

6 pcs. in blisters

Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics

The main substance inhibits the growth and reproduction of microorganisms, has a fungistatic effect and fungicidal activity, and leads to the death of fungi. Due to the inhibition of the synthesis of ergosterol, the component binds to the phospholipids of the fungal cell membrane, changing its permeability. In high concentrations, clotrimazole damages fungal cells by lysis without suppressing the synthesis of ergosterol, prevents the formation of proteins, fats and polysaccharides of fungi, destroys their nucleic acids and increases the excretion of potassium.

The drug has a broad effect on dermatophytes, yeasts, dimorphic and mold fungi, protozoa, plus it destroys gram-positive bacteria. Fungistatic activity is manifested in relation to the mycelium of dermatophytes, budding fungi from the genus Candida. The component is practically not absorbed into the systemic circulation when applied to intact and non-inflamed skin. The concentration in blood serum is negligible, with intravaginal application, absorption is 3-10% of the dose. The drug breaks down in the liver to inactive metabolites, excreted by the kidneys and intestines.

From what ointment Clotrimazole

With external use of ointment, gel, cream and solution, according to the instructions, the following indications are distinguished:

  • fungal diseases caused by dermatophytes, yeast-like fungi, mold pathogens sensitive to the active ingredient;
  • mycoses of feet, brushes;
  • candidal vulvitis, balanitis with the localization of the fungus inside the body;
  • versicolor versicolor, erythrasma;
  • skin mycosis;
  • fungal infection of the outer ear.

When using intravaginal forms of the drug (solution, suppositories and tablets), the indications are:

  • infections of the genital organs caused by yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida;
  • vulvovaginal candidiasis;
  • urogenital infections;
  • trichomoniasis;
  • genital superinfections caused by microorganisms that are sensitive to the active ingredient of the drug;
  • sanitation of the birth canal before childbirth.

Method of application and dosage

The instructions and reviews say that Clotrimazole can be used vaginally or externally. The dosage, course of treatment and method of use depend on the type of disease, the individual characteristics of patients, their age and the type of pathogen. Cream, ointment and gel are often applied to the skin to eliminate fungal infections and lichen, tablets and suppositories are used intravaginally to treat urogenital candidiasis.

Clotrimazole cream

For external use, Clotrimazole cream is intended. According to the instructions, it is applied to dry clean affected areas up to three times / day. If the symptoms have already disappeared, it is recommended to continue treatment for another two weeks to prevent the occurrence of relapses. The cream is applied to the skin, washed with neutral acid soap, without a bandage, on the feet it is used between the toes. The course of treatment is:

  • ringworm - up to 4 weeks;
  • erythrasma - up to a month;
  • multi-colored lichen - up to 3 weeks;
  • candidal vulvitis - up to 2 weeks;
  • the minimum duration is 3 weeks.

Gel

Clotrimazole gel is also used externally, on the skin. Apply it to the affected areas 2-3 times / day. According to the instructions, the minimum course of treatment will be 2-4 weeks. It is allowed to use the gel for the treatment of the oral cavity - up to two times / day for no more than a week. If the drug is prescribed for intravaginal administration, use 100-150 mg of Clotrimazole daily for 1-6 days.

Ointment Clotrimazole

According to the instructions, the ointment is applied in a thin layer 2-3 times / day on cleansed with neutral soap and dried skin. Gently rub the composition and leave until absorbed. The duration of therapy is:

  • dermatomycosis - from a month;
  • pityriasis versicolor - 1-3 weeks;
  • at the end of the course, it is worth continuing treatment for another 2 weeks;
  • with fungal infections of the nails of the feet - for 2-3 weeks.

Solution

Like the gel, Clotrimazole solution can be used externally to treat the skin and intravaginally to eliminate candidiasis pathogens. In the first case, the solution is applied to the affected dry areas up to three times / day for 0.5-1 month. To treat the mouth, rinses and applications with cotton swabs are intended twice a day for no more than a week. According to the instructions, intravaginal use of the solution should not exceed six days.

Candles Clotrimazole

For local use, suppositories with Clotrimazole are intended. According to the instructions, they are administered intravaginally by women and teenage girls. They are inserted into the vagina in the evening, very deep, lying on your back with bent legs. The course of treatment lasts six days - one suppository is inserted into the vagina into each of them. Repeated therapy is prescribed by the doctor after examination.

Clotrimazole tablets

Another form of release for intravaginal use is tablets. The course of treatment lasts 6-7 days, during which one tablet / day is prescribed, or three days, one tablet twice / day. If there is no effect within three days, the diagnosis is reviewed, and if after a week the treatment does not give a result, a medical consultation is required. Repeated therapy is possible, but increases the risk of detecting the pathology of diabetes mellitus or HIV infection.

If symptoms occur after a couple of months, the patient is sent to a doctor. It is allowed to combine tablets with cream for infection of the vulva. For complete dissolution of the first, it is necessary to create normal moisture in the vaginal mucosa, if it is dry, the tablet can stand out. To prevent this from happening, inject the tablet as deeply as possible. According to the instructions, treatment during menstruation is not carried out. If sanation is necessary, a woman is prescribed one tablet before childbirth.

special instructions

According to the instructions of the types of the drug, there are special instructions that must be followed when using them:

  • Avoid getting the cream on the mucous membrane of the eyes, do not ingest.
  • Treat infected areas at the same time, for vaginal lesions, treat the male partner in the same way.
  • Cetearyl alcohol may cause contact dermatitis.
  • If sensitivity or skin irritation occurs, therapy is stopped.
  • Contraceptives containing latex are destroyed by the active substance - alternative drugs should be used after five days after treatment.
  • There is no data on the effect of the drug on the speed of psychomotor reactions.
  • It is necessary to control the functional state of the liver in patients with liver failure.

During pregnancy

The use of the drug is indicated for pregnant women only on prescription, if the latter evaluates the benefit to the mother above the risk to the fetus. Epidemiological studies have not revealed any violations in the course of bearing a child or his health when using the drug. There are no data on the effect of the drug on fertility. Candles are contraindicated in the first trimester of pregnancy.

In childhood

For the treatment of fungal diseases in children, you can use a cream, ointment and clotrimazole solution. The dosage goes according to the instructions, does not differ from adults. Vaginal tablets are allowed to be used from the age of 12. Indications for use:

  • Treatment of oral candidiasis. 10-20 drops of the solution are applied to a cotton swab and the affected areas are wiped 3-4 times / day, the course lasts until the symptoms disappear completely (approximately 2-3 days).
  • Fungal lesions of the skin, mucous membranes, nail fungus. Cream or ointment is used 1-3 times / day.

drug interaction

The instructions for use of the drug indicate its interaction with other medicines:

  • Amphotericin, Nystatin and Natamycin reduce the effectiveness of Clotrimazole, except for the ointment format that acts in the layers of the epidermis.
  • The vaginal combination of Clotrimazole and oral tacrolimus (an immunosuppressive drug) increases the concentration of the latter in the blood plasma, requires careful monitoring of patients.

Side effects

Depending on the use of different forms of release of Clotrimazole, the following side effects are indicated in the instructions:

  • allergic reactions, urticaria, syncope, arterial hypotension, shortness of breath;
  • rash, itching on the skin, peeling, pain, swelling, irritation, burning;
  • discharge, itching, burning and swelling of the vaginal mucosa;
  • headache, abdominal pain;
  • frequent urination;
  • the appearance of blisters;
  • cystitis;
  • pain during intercourse, burning of the partner's penis.

Overdose

Symptoms of accidental ingestion of the drug inside are dizziness, vomiting, nausea. Treatment is symptomatic. With external use, an overdose is unlikely. When using vaginal forms of Clotrimazole in an amount exceeding the recommended one, the manifestation of a dangerous condition is impossible. When swallowing tablets or suppositories, drowsiness, hallucinations, vomiting, anorexia are possible. To eliminate symptoms, patients are given activated charcoal. There is no specific antidote.

Contraindications

According to the instructions, contraindications for the use of the drug are as follows:

  • Hypersensitivity to components.
  • First trimester of pregnancy, menstruation when using suppositories.
  • With caution, the drug is used during breastfeeding, in the first case of vaginal candidiasis.
  • For tablets - age up to 12 years; more than two cases of thrush in the last six months; the presence of sexually transmitted diseases in history; pregnancy; age over 60; hypersensitivity to imidazoles.
  • It is forbidden to use tablets for bleeding from the vagina, uterine hemorrhages, ulcers, blisters on the vulva. Do not use them for dysuria, fever or diarrhea, vomiting, pain in the back and shoulders.

Terms of sale and storage

The cream is dispensed in pharmacies by prescription, other forms - without it. Storage conditions: dry clean place out of reach of children. Shelf life: cream, suppositories and tablets - 3 years, ointment - 2 years.

Analogues

According to the active substance and pharmacological action, the following analogues of Clotrimazole are distinguished, produced in the form of a cream, tablets, solution and suppositories:

  • Candide;
  • Canison;
  • Imidil;
  • Candibene;
  • Kanesten;
  • Ganesten;
  • Lotrimin;
  • Mycosporin;
  • Panmikol;
  • Alokandp;
  • Antifungol;
  • Dignotrimanol;
  • Faktodin;
  • Funginal;
  • Ginelotrimine.

Clotrimazole price

The cost of the drug depends on the form of its release, the margin of the seller and the cost of the manufacturer. You can buy Clotrimazole via the Internet or in a familiar pharmacy. Approximate prices in Moscow are as follows.

Today, almost every woman at least once in her life has encountered various fungal diseases that cause a large number of problems. The manufacturer characterizes Clotrimazole ointment as a very effective tool that can solve many women's problems. This medicine can buy at any pharmacy.

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Description and composition

"Clotrimazole" from fungal diseases contains the active substance clotrimazole, which performs an antifungal function. The composition of the drug includes additional components: propyl glycol, methyl paraben and polyethylene oxide. "Clotrimazole" should be stored in a cool and dry place, inaccessible to the penetration of ultraviolet rays.

"Clotrimazole" is an ointment that can have a very quick effect on the body.

Active ingredients drugs very quickly penetrate the cells of the epidermis, and immediately have a detrimental effect on fungi of a yeast-like nature.

Their ability to reproduce and spread is suspended, which significantly improves the condition of the skin.

Why should you use this drug? The active substance copes well with various bacteria and fungi, so the range of its application is quite wide. Ointment "Clotrimazole" from the fungus relieves very quickly, effect on soft tissue occurs within half an hour after application of the product.

Important! The active components of the drug are able to penetrate the placental barrier, so the drug is contraindicated in pregnant women. During the lactation period, the drug can be used, but this should be done carefully and only as prescribed by an experienced specialist.

Indications for use

The range of effects of this tool is quite extensive, so the drug is very popular. Active substances are quickly absorbed, the positive effect can be seen already two days after the start of treatment.

The medication is used in such cases:

  • in the presence of fungal infections: yeast and mold fungi, as well as other pathogens;
  • when color lichen occurs on the skin;
  • for the treatment of dermatitis, inflammatory diseases of the ear.

Indications for use make the tool indispensable, it should be stored in any first aid kit. Ointment can be bought without a doctor's prescription, but this does not mean that you should self-medicate.

From whatever this medication is used, be sure to consult a specialist.

Important to consider the presence of allergic reactions on the components included in the composition, as well as the general state of health of the patient at the time of the start of treatment.

Instructions for use for women ointment "Clotrimazole" says the following.

Before using the medicine, it is necessary to clean the skin well with soap and plenty of running water, then dry the skin well with a terry towel.

The agent is applied evenly thick layer on all affected areas, carefully rubbed into the skin until completely absorbed.

The therapeutic effect will be noticeable after two weeks of using the drug, but everything will depend on how sensitive the bacteria are to the active substances, as well as on the area of ​​the affected surface.

Important! After you notice that the condition of your skin has begun to noticeably improve, use the medication for another couple of weeks. This will help consolidate the result.

Usually course of treatment is from one week to a month, but in some cases this period may be extended. If after a month there are no positive results, be sure to consult a dermatologist.

The tool is actively used to treat nail and foot fungus.

The cream should be applied three times a day. Never cover the areas immediately after application. It should be well absorbed.

Usually, the first results can be seen within five to six days after the start of using the ointment, a complete cure usually occurs only after two to three months of regular use.

Important! It should be borne in mind that with intensive use of the ointment, its effectiveness increases many times over, but this is far from appropriate in all cases.

How to use "Clotrimazole" correctly. Very important take into account all the features the use of this tool, as well as the possibility of its combination with other medicines. There were no special warnings on the interaction of this drug with others, however, there is a certain group of medicines, the effectiveness of which decreases when used together with Clotrimazole. These include pharmaceutical substances such as Amphotericin, Natamycin and Nystatin.

What else does the ointment help with? used "Clotrimazole" in gynecology. Can be used to treat fungal diseases such as candidiasis. Such pathologies are characterized by vaginal discharge, its excessive dryness, swelling of the external genitalia, as well as the inability to have sexual intercourse and pain in the lower abdomen.

In this case, the instructions for use for women recommend using the medicine in several forms of release at once.

For example, candles are inserted into the vagina, with the help of an ointment, the external genitalia can be treated, and tablets will help to destroy fungal pathologies from the inside.

The drug can also be used in the treatment of color deprivation. As you know, fungi that lead to the development of such a pathology can live in the body for quite a long time and do not cause any trouble to a person.

However, if the immune system fails, then this entails the development of many fungal and bacterial diseases, including lichen. In the presence of such a pathology, the medicine is recommended to be used three to four times a day for a month. During this period, all signs of infection will disappear.

Are there any contraindications

Despite the effectiveness and safety, "Clotrimazole" has contraindications. It can not be used by people suffering from hypersensitivity to the components that make up the drug, as well as pregnant patients. In all other cases, the remedy can be used after consulting with a dermatologist first.

What side effects can the use of the ointment lead to:

  • in some cases, the use of an ointment leads to peeling of the skin at the sites of application;
  • the occurrence of allergic reactions, manifested in the form of a rash, itching and urticaria, and swelling is not excluded.

In no case should you use the medicine with the development of side effects. Even at the slightest manifestation, stop using the ointment and go to a dermatologist. In this case, the patient should be offered a replacement. The dermatologist will tell you how to use the medication to avoid the development of unwanted reactions.

Do not joke with your health and do not self-medicate, because the results can be extremely deplorable.

Analogues

Today, the pharmaceutical market offers consumers a large number of antifungal agents with a wide range of effects. Buy them available at any pharmacy without having a prescription from your doctor.

Despite the huge number of analogues, they can only be used after a visit to a dermatologist.

Clotrimazole and its analogues

  • "Ketozoral",
  • "Nystatin ointment"
  • "Ketoconazole"
  • "Miconazole" and many others.

All of these medicines have a similar effect on the body. Usually, doctors prescribe them if, for some reason, the patient cannot purchase the original remedy.

Video: Clotrimazole: forms, side effects

To date, "Clotrimazole" is very popular, as it has a low price and excellent fulfills its purpose. Dermatologists often recommend it to their patients, as they are sure of its effectiveness. But in any case, be sure to consult your doctor before using. This will help you avoid a lot of trouble. Start taking care of yourself today!

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Clotrimazole ointment is intended for the treatment of fungal infections. The tool has a detrimental effect on many types of pathogenic microorganisms. The effective element of the drug penetrates the cell membrane and stops the development of the disease.

Clotrimazole is used in the complex treatment of various infections of the skin caused by excessive reproduction of Corynebacterium minutissimum and Malasseria furfur.

Due to the easy method of use, a large percentage of the active substance in the composition and good tolerance on the part of patients, Clotrimazole has found wide application in the treatment of fungal infections.

The active substance of the product is clotrimazole - 1 g of the product contains 10 mg (the account is kept on a dry matter of 100%). The composition of the ointment also includes additional substances:

  • polyethylene glycol acetostraryl alcohol;
  • propylene glycol;
  • cetosteryl alcohol;
  • polyethylene glycol 400;
  • proxanol 268.

The ointment is almost transparent, with a homogeneous consistency and a specific smell.

Release form Clotrimazole

The ointment is produced in the form of an aluminum tube (30 g, 20 g) with bushes having an internal lacquer coating. The tube is packaged in paper packaging. A leaflet is attached to the product - an insert with instructions for use and storage conditions.

Clotrimazole is also available in the form of:

  1. vaginal tablets. Parallelepiped-shaped tablets with slightly rounded corners. Contains 100 mg of active substance. Each blister contains 6 dragees.
  2. Cream. The cream has a white color and a uniform consistency, intended for external use. The amount of the active element in this form is 10 mg per 1 g of the product. The cream is packaged in tubes of 30 g, 20 g. Vaginal cream (2%) is produced in tubes of 50 g.
  3. Solution for external use. It has a soft texture like an emulsion. A solution (1%) is produced in ampoules of 15 or 30 ml. Has a white or slightly orange color.
  4. Candles. Vaginal suppositories have a cylindrical shape. Color - white or with a yellow tinge.

The product must not be frozen. You can store 3 years from the date of issue, at a temperature of 25 degrees.

Action

Clotrimazole belongs to a number of antifungal drugs with a wide spectrum of action. The active component of the product is clotrimazole, which has a destructive effect on various pathogenic microorganisms (dermatophytes, yeasts and molds), including dimorphic fungi and actinomycetes of the genus Nocardia.

The agent has a fungistatic, and with respect to dermatophytes and fungi of the genus Candida - a fungicidal effect.

Due to the property of the active substance to be quickly absorbed into the skin, when using the product, the fastest possible effect on the causative agent of the disease occurs. The skin under the influence of the drug is cleansed, its surface is leveled, the normal functioning of the affected organs is restored.

The active substance is able to penetrate the tissues of the placenta and appear in the body of the fetus. Given this fact, use Clotrimazole ointment during pregnancy or if you suspect it should be used with caution, only with the permission of a doctor, in case of emergency.

When using Clotrimazole ointment in high concentrations on problem areas of the skin, an increase in the effectiveness of exposure is observed.

Excretion of the decay products of the drug occurs through the kidneys.

The effect on resistant strains is rarely recorded. Clotrimazole has antibacterial properties against certain gram-positive cocci and corynebacteria. At certain concentrations, it has a trichomonacid effect. The active substance of the agent blocks the synthesis of nucleic acids, proteins and ergosterol in fungal cells, thereby causing the death of pathogenic microorganisms.

According to clinical studies, it is stated that the drug has practically no systemic effect.

Indications for use

Clotrimazole ointment has an antifungal effect, also actively acting on other pathogens that are dangerous to health.

Clotrimazole ointment is used for:

  1. Thrush in men and women (candidiasis balanitis and vulvitis);
  2. Paronycheia (inflammation of the periungual roller);
  3. stomatitis;
  4. Combinations of infections of candidiasis and trichomoniasis;
  5. Dermatophyte;
  6. Skin infections on the trunk and in the inguinal zone;
  7. Detection of a fungal disease of the outer ear;
  8. Mycoses;
  9. coccal infections;
  10. Trichomonas;
  11. Pitiriase;
  12. Psoriasis;
  13. Erytheme;
  14. Erythrasma (bacterial lesion of the skin in the areas of folds);
  15. Completed hemorrhoids.

Often the remedy is used to treat herpes zoster, pityriasis, ringworm and color deprivation. Fungi that cause infection are sensitive to the active substance of the drug and are quickly destroyed when used.

Clotrimazole is also used for severe pigmentation. Clotrimazole copes with both herpes and streptoderma.

Side effects

When applying Clotrimazole ointment, you need to apply it to a small area and check the reaction of the body. The following side effects occur:

In areas where the product is applied, irritations, allergic reactions are possible in the form of:

  • peeling;
  • skin redness;
  • urticaria;
  • tingling and itching;
  • burning sensation;
  • blister formation.

Headaches, gastrointestinal upset;

Frequent urination (in the treatment of genital candidiasis).

Contraindications

The main contraindication to the use of the drug is hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

  1. Pregnancy (first months);
  2. Use of alcohol and antibiotics;
  3. Under the age of 12;
  4. Liver diseases;
  5. Menstrual cycle in case of vaginal administration.

Interaction with other medicines

Clotrimazole ointment may reduce exposure to:

  • Nystatin;
  • Amphotericin;
  • Natamycin.

A negative reaction when interacting with other medicines should not be expected, since the resorption capacity of clotrimazole is rather low.

Instructions for use

Clotrimazole ointment is intended for external use. Apply the product to the previously washed and dried problem area. It is allowed to clean the area of ​​application of the agent with a soap that has a neutral effect. Rub the ointment with massaging movements until completely absorbed. The usual rate is 3 times a day.

The duration of the course is determined by the severity of the disease and the localization of the infection.

With dermatoses, the average course duration is about 4 weeks. With pityriasis versicolor - 3 weeks. With a fungal infection of the skin of the lower extremities, therapy should be continued for another 15 days after the symptoms disappear.

When treating nail fungus, both the nail plate and the skin around the finger should be treated. During the treatment of a fungal infection of the lower extremities, you need to wear tights, socks, shoes made of natural material so that the skin can breathe freely. It is also very important to observe the rules of hygiene, frequent change of socks.

After the first manifestations of healing, experts advise continuing to use the ointment for another two weeks in order to strengthen the result.

It is necessary to treat a fungal infection with Clotrimazole ointment only in a full course, without interrupting treatment, even if acute symptoms recede.

If the next application of the ointment is missed, the treatment of the affected area should be carried out as soon as possible.

If a pronounced improvement in the condition of the skin after 4 months of using the product is not observed, you need to consult a dermatologist and introduce an adjustment to the therapeutic course of treatment.

Instructions for use Clotrimazole for men

The main percentage of diseases caused by a fungal infection are lesions of the genital organs. Among the male population, there is a problem in the form of thrush (candidiasis balanitis). The disease is caused by fungi of the genus Candida. The infection is transmitted sexually.

Symptoms of candidiasis are:

  • burning sensation and itching on the genitals;
  • pain during urination;
  • discomfort during sexual intercourse;
  • swelling, rash on the genitals;
  • discharge with an unpleasant odor.

Clotrimazole ointment has been successfully used to treat such an infection. Already from small doses, the disease begins to recede, further use leads to the death of the pathogen in 7 days. During the treatment period, loose cotton underwear should be worn.

The ointment is used topically, 2 times a day in the morning and at bedtime. Apply the ointment to the head of the penis, the foreskin.

Special Instructions

Before you start using Clotrimazole ointment, you should carefully read the instructions, especially with the special instructions in it:

  1. With a fungal infection of the skin of the mammary gland during lactation, the use of the drug is not allowed;
  2. The use of ointment in the first and second trimester of pregnancy is allowed only on the recommendation of a doctor;
  3. This drug should not be used to treat a fungal infection of the skin around the eyes;
  4. Do not apply the product to the mucous membranes and eyes. If the drug accidentally gets into these areas, they should be washed off as quickly as possible with plenty of running water;
  5. With the appearance of pronounced local side reactions, the use of the ointment should be discontinued;
  6. After working with the drug, wash your hands with warm water and soap;
  7. The drug does not affect the functions of the brain, does not have a systemic effect on the body.

Cases of overdose are not registered.

Analogues

Substitute means of Ointment Clotrimazole are:

  • Candide;
  • Imidil;
  • Antifungol;
  • Akrikhin ointment;
  • Amyclone;
  • Candibene.

Antifungal drug for external use

Active substance

Release form, composition and packaging

Cream for external use 1% in the form of a homogeneous mass of white.

Excipients: benzyl alcohol - 1 g, cetostearyl alcohol - 11.5 g, octyldodecanol - 10 g, polysorbate 60 - 1.5 g, sorbitan stearate - 2 g, synthetic spermaceti - 3 g, water - 71 g.

20 g - aluminum tubes (1) - packs of cardboard.

pharmachologic effect

Clotrimazole inhibits the growth and division of microorganisms and, depending on the concentration, may have a fungistatic (delaying and stopping the growth of fungal cells) or fungicidal (leading to the death of fungi) action. Clotrimazole inhibits the synthesis of ergosterol and binds to the phospholipids of the cell membrane of the fungus, which leads to a change in the permeability of cell membranes.

At higher concentrations, clotrimazole causes damage to cell membranes by mechanisms independent of sterol synthesis.

Clotrimazole also disrupts the vital processes in the fungal cell, inhibiting the formation of components necessary for building vital cellular structures (proteins, fats, DNA, polysaccharides), damages nucleic acids and increases potassium excretion.

Ultimately, the effect of clotrimazole on fungal cells leads to their death.

Clotrimazole is characterized by a wide spectrum antifungal and antibacterial activity: dermatophytes (Epidermophyton floccosum, Microsporum canis, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Trichophyton rubrum), yeasts (Candida spp., Cryptococcus neoformans), dimorphic fungi (Coccidioides immitis, Histoplasma capsulatum, Paracoccidioides brasiliensis), protozoa (Trichomonas vaginalis).

He also active against some gram-positive bacteria.

When studying the effectiveness of clotrimazole in laboratory conditions outside the human body (in vitro), a wide range of its fungistatic and fungicidal activity was revealed. It acts on the mycelium of dermatophytes (Trichophyton, Microsporum, Epidermophyton) similarly to griseofulvin, and its effect on budding fungi (Candida) is similar to that of polyenes (amphotericin B and nystatin).

At concentrations less than 1 μg / ml, clotrimazole inhibits the development of most strains of pathogenic fungi related to Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Epidermophyton floccosum, Microsporum canis.

At a concentration of 3 μg / ml, clotrimazole inhibits the development of most other bacteria: Pityrosporum orbiculare, Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida genus, incl. Candida albicans, some strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and some strains of Proteus vulgaris and Salmonella. Clotrimazole is active against Sporothrix, Cryptococcus, Cephalosporium, Fusarium.

At concentrations greater than 100 µg/ml, it is effective against Trichomonas vaginalis.

Mushrooms resistant to clotrimazole are extremely rare; there are data only for individual strains of Candida guilliermondii.

No resistance development has been reported in clotrimazole-sensitive fungi after passage of Candida albicans and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. No cases of development of resistance to clotrimazole in strains of Candida albicans resistant to polyene antibiotics due to a chemical mutation have been described.

Pharmacokinetics

Suction and distribution

Pharmacokinetic studies have shown that clotrimazole is practically not absorbed into the systemic circulation when the drug is applied to intact or inflamed skin. Serum concentrations of clotrimazole were below the detection limit (0.001 µg/mL), confirming that topical clotrimazole does not cause clinically significant systemic effects or side effects.

Metabolism and excretion

Clotrimazole breaks down in the liver to inactive substances excreted from the body through the kidneys and intestines.

Indications

For external treatment of fungal infections caused by dermatophytes, yeast-like fungi, mold fungi, as well as pathogens sensitive to clotrimazole:

- mycosis of the feet, hands, trunk, skin folds;

- candidal vulvitis, candidal balanitis;

- versicolor versicolor, erythrasma;

- fungal infections of the external ear.

Contraindications

- hypersensitivity to clotrimazole or other components of the drug.

Dosage

For outdoor use. The cream should be applied to the affected areas of the skin 2-3 times / day.

For relapse prevention treatment should be continued for at least two weeks after the disappearance of all symptoms of infection.

The cream should be applied to clean, dry areas of the affected skin (washed with neutral pH soap), on the feet, the cream should be applied between the toes.

The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the disease, its localization, and the effectiveness of treatment.

Duration of treatment: ringworm - 3-4 weeks; erythrasma - 2-4 weeks; multi-colored lichen - 1-3 weeks; candidal vulvitis and balanitis - 1-2 weeks.

The duration of treatment may vary according to individual characteristics, but a duration of treatment of less than 3 weeks is not recommended. To prevent recurrence of infection, you should continue using the drug for 1-2 weeks after the disappearance of all symptoms of the disease. If after 7 days of treatment there is no improvement in symptoms, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Side effects

The adverse events presented below are listed according to the damage to organs and organ systems and the frequency of occurrence. The frequency of occurrence is defined as follows: very often (≥1/10), often (≥1/100 and< 1/10), нечасто (≥1/1000 и < 1/100), редко (≥1/10 000 и < 1/1 000), очень редко (< 1/10 000, включая отдельные случаи), неизвестно (частота не может быть оценена по имеющимся на настоящий момент данным). Категории частоты были сформированы на основании пострегистрационного наблюдения.

From the immune system: unknown - an allergic reaction (manifested by urticaria, fainting, arterial hypotension, shortness of breath).

From the skin and subcutaneous tissues: unknown - rash, itching, blisters, peeling, pain or discomfort, swelling, burning, irritation.

Overdose

Symptoms: in case of accidental ingestion of the drug, nausea, vomiting may occur.

Treatment: in case of accidental ingestion of the cream, symptomatic treatment should be carried out. With external use of the drug, an overdose is unlikely.

drug interaction

Not studied.

special instructions

It is necessary to avoid getting the cream on the mucous membrane of the eyes. Do not swallow.

All infected areas should be treated at the same time.

The composition of the drug Clotrimazole includes cetostearyl alcohol, which can cause local skin reactions (for example, contact).

If symptoms of hypersensitivity or irritation appear, treatment is stopped.

Laboratory data indicate that the use of contraceptives containing latex can cause damage when used together with clotrimazole. Therefore, the effectiveness of such contraceptives may decrease. Patients should be advised to use alternative methods for at least 5 days after clotrimazole use.

Influence on the ability to drive vehicles and control mechanisms

No effect of clotrimazole on the ability to drive vehicles and mechanisms has been reported.

Pregnancy and lactation

The use of the drug Clotrimazole with is allowed only if, in the opinion of the doctor, the potential benefit of using the cream for the mother outweighs the possible risk to the fetus.

In the conducted epidemiological studies, there were no adverse events in relation to pregnancy or fetal health when using the drug Clotrimazole.

The use of the drug Clotrimazole in women during breastfeeding is allowed only if, in the opinion of the doctor, the potential benefit of using the cream for the mother outweighs the possible risk to the child.

Fertility

No data available.

Terms of dispensing from pharmacies

The drug is released without a prescription.

Terms and conditions of storage

The drug should be kept out of the reach of children at a temperature not exceeding 25 ° C. Do not freeze. Shelf life - 3 years.