Clotrimazole

International nonproprietary name

Clotrimazole

Dosage form

Compound

100 g of cream contain

active substance - clotrimazole 1 g,

Excipients: cetostearyl alcohol, octyldodecanol, polysorbate 60, sorbitan stearate, synthetic spermaceti, benzyl alcohol, purified water.

Description

Homogeneous white mass

Pharmacotherapeutic group

Antifungal drugs for external use. Imidazole and triazole derivatives. Clotrimazole.

ATX code D01AC01

Pharmacological properties

Pharmacokinetics

After applying Clotrimazole cream to the skin, clotrimazole is absorbed by the epidermis. Higher concentrations of clotrimazole are found in the stratum corneum and spinosum of the epidermis, as well as in the papillae and reticular layer of the dermis. Clotrimazole is poorly absorbed through the skin and mucous membranes and has virtually no systemic effect.

Clotrimazole is metabolized in the liver to inactive substances excreted in urine and feces.

Pharmacodynamics

Mechanism of action

Clotrimazole inhibits cell growth and division. In small concentrations it acts fungistatically, in large concentrations it is fungicidal. The antimycotic effect of clotrimazole is associated with disruption of the synthesis of ergosterol, which is part of the cell membrane of fungi, and binding to phospholipids of the fungal cell wall.

Clinical studies have shown that the effect of using clotrimazole is similar to the effect of using imidazole derivatives - econazole and ketoconazole.

In the fungal cell, Clotrimazole also inhibits the biosynthesis of protein, fats, DNA and polysaccharides, destroys cellular nucleic acids and increases potassium loss. May inhibit enzyme activity and biosynthesis of triglycerides and phospholipids in the cell wall. At high concentrations, clotrimazole causes cell membrane damage through mechanisms independent of sterol synthesis.

Clotrimazole, used to treat infections caused by C. albicans, suppresses the transformation of the blastophore into its invasive form. Changes in the structure of the cell membrane lead to cell death. The degree of influence of the drug depends on the degree of susceptibility of the microorganism to clotrimazole.

Activity spectrum

Clotrimazole is characterized by a wide spectrum of antifungal and antimicrobial action, inhibits the growth and leads to the death of dermatophytes (Epidermophyton floccosum, Microsporum canis, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Trichophyton rubrum), yeast-like fungi (Candida sp., Cryptococcus neoformans), dimorphic fungi ( Coccidioides immitis, Histoplasma capsulatum, Paracoccidicides brasiliensis) and protozoa (Trichomonas vaginalis).

Clotrimazole has an antimicrobial effect against gram-positive microorganisms: Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Gardnerella vagiinalis and gram-negative microorganisms ( Bacteroides). Has no effect on lactic acid bacteria ( Lactobacilli).

In vitro clotrimazole inhibits reproduction Corynebacteria and gram-positive cocci - with the exception of enterococci - at a concentration of 0.5-10 μg/ml of substrate.

In vitro Clotrimazole has a broad fungistatic and fungicidal effect. Its effect on dermatophytes is similar to that of griseofulvin, and on organisms of the genus Candida - polyenes (amphothecin B and nystatin).

At concentrations below 1 μg/ml, clotrimazole inhibits most strains Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Epidermophyton floccosum And Microsporum canis.

At a concentration of 3 mcg/ml, clotrimazole inhibits the growth of most bacteria: Pitorosporum orbiculare, Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida species, including Candida albicans, some strains Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenis, and also some strains Proteus vulgaris And Salmonella. Clotrimazole is active against Sporotrix, Cryptococcus, Cephalosporium And Fusarium. Concentrations above 100 μg/ml are effective against Trichomonas vaginalis.

Clotrimazole-resistant strains are extremely rare; the only described strain with characteristic resistance is Candida guilliermondi.

No reports of resistance among clotrimazole-susceptible strains after culture Candida albicans And Trichophyton mentagrophytes. No resistance to clotrimazole was observed in strains C. albicans with resistance to polyene antibiotics.

Indications for use

Topical treatment of skin infections of the hands, feet, body, legs and legs caused by dermatophytes ( Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Epidermophyton floccosum And Microsporum canis)

Pityriasis versicolor caused by Malassezia furfur (Pityrosporum orbiculare or Pityrosporum ovale)

Yeast infections (including genus Candida And balanitis) skin and mucous membranes of the external genitalia (labia, foreskin)

Directions for use and doses

For external use only.

The cream is applied in a thin layer to the affected areas of the skin 2-3 times a day and gently rubbed in (the skin is first cleaned with neutral pH soap and blotted with a dry towel).

The duration of treatment is from 2 to 4 weeks and depends on the severity of the disease, the location of pathological changes and the effectiveness of therapy.

All infected areas should be treated at the same time.

To avoid relapses, it is recommended to continue therapy with Clotrimazole cream for at least 2 weeks after the symptoms of the disease disappear.

Duration of therapy

Treatment of dermatomycosis is carried out for at least 4 weeks.

Treatment of infections caused by Candida- at least 2 weeks.

Pityriasis versicolor is effectively treated when applied topically for 1-3 weeks.

If the symptoms of the disease do not decrease after 7 days of use, you should consult your doctor.

Side effects

The frequency of side effects of the drug is determined as follows:

Very often (≥1/10), often (≥1/100 and<1/10), нечасто (≥1/1000 и <1/100), редко (≥1/10000 и <1/1000), очень редко (<1/10000), неизвестно (недостаточно сведений для оценки).

Rarely

Allergic contact dermatitis, erythema

Allergic reactions (urticaria, shortness of breath, hypotension, fainting)

Itching, rash, blisters, peeling skin, discomfort/pain at the application site, burning, swelling, irritation

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to the active substance or any component of the drug

Drug interactions

The drug may have a negative effect on latex contraceptives, damaging them and reducing their contraceptive ability. Patients should use alternative methods of contraception for at least five days after completion of therapy with Clotrimazole.

Intravaginal use of the drug Clotrimazole and the drug tacrolimus for oral administration (FK-506, an immunosuppressant) may lead to an increase in the level of tacrolimus in the blood plasma, and therefore patients should be closely monitored by a physician for symptoms of tacrolimus overdose and, if necessary, determination its concentration in plasma.

special instructions

The drug contains cetostearyl alcohol, which can cause local skin irritation (contact dermatitis).

Fertility

There have been no studies on the effect on human fertility, and data from animal studies have shown no effect on fertility.

Pregnancy

There is limited data on the use of clotrimazole in pregnant women. Animal studies do not indicate direct or indirect harmful effects associated with reproductive toxicity. As a precaution, it is preferable to avoid the use of clotrimazole during the first trimester of pregnancy.

Lactation period

Available pharmacodynamic/toxicological data in animals have shown the release of clotrimazole/metabolites into milk. Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with clotrimazole.

Features of the effect of the drug on the ability to drive a vehicle or potentially dangerous mechanisms

Clotrimazole cream has no or negligible effect on the ability to drive a vehicle or operate potentially dangerous machinery.

Overdose

An overdose of the drug is unlikely due to the dosage form, the form of administration and the low absorption of clotrimazole.

Symptoms: In case of unintended oral use of the drug, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting may occur.

Treatment: there is no specific antidote. If necessary, symptomatic treatment.

Release form and packaging

20 g of cream are placed in aluminum tubes with an internal varnish coating, sealed with membranes and closed with screw-on plastic caps.

1 tube, along with instructions for use in the state and Russian languages, is placed in a cardboard pack.

Storage conditions

Store at a temperature not exceeding 25 ºС. Do not freeze.

Keep out of the reach of children!

Shelf life

Do not use after the expiration date.

Conditions for dispensing from pharmacies

Over the counter

Manufacturer/Packager

Registration Certificate Holder

GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals S.A., Poland

(189 Grunwaldzka Street, 60-322 Poznan)

Address of the organization that receives claims from consumers on the quality of products (goods) in the territory of the Republic of Kazakhstan and is responsible for post-registration monitoring of the safety of the medicinal product

Representative office of GlaxoSmithKline Export Ltd in Kazakhstan

050059, Almaty, Furmanov st., 273

Phone number: +7 727 258 28 92, +7 727 259 09 96

Fax number: + 7 727 258 28 90

E-mail address: [email protected]

Approved instructionsYuFor medical use, see also on the website www.dari.kz

The instructions for use of Clotrimazole ointment recommend its use for the treatment of thrush in women. The disease develops with a sharp decrease in immunity and manifests itself with severe symptoms. Particular discomfort is caused by cutting and burning, pain in the lower abdomen, and vaginal discharge. Taking systemic antimycotic drugs often leads to adverse reactions. Therefore, doctors prescribe drugs for topical use to women.

Clotrimazole ointment is often included in the therapeutic regimens of patients with thrush (vaginal candidiasis). It not only eliminates the symptoms, but also affects the cause of the disease - the yeast-like fungi Candida. The drug is available, inexpensive, and convenient for treatment at home.

Clotrimazole ointment is a time-tested remedy against thrush. This infection of the genital organs often develops with endocrine pathologies, hypothermia, and long-term use of antibiotics. When the body's defenses are weakened, pathogens of mycoses begin to become active. Candida fungi belong to the opportunistic microflora and are always present in small quantities in the vagina. Against the background of decreased immunity, they begin to rapidly multiply and infect the mucous membranes. If you use Clotrimazole ointment at this stage, you can do without taking systemic antimycotics. The drug quickly eliminates the symptoms of thrush:

• burning and itching in the vagina;
• redness, swelling, itching;
• pain during and after urination;
• cheesy discharge from the genitals.

The drug helps to quickly get rid of the symptoms of chronic vaginal candidiasis. With this form of pathology, thick mucus is rarely discharged from the vagina. Women suffer from excessive dryness of the mucous membrane, hyperemia, and dry erosions.

Even after a single application of the antifungal agent, the intensity of clinical manifestations decreases.

To enhance the therapeutic effect of the ointment, the doctor may prescribe the simultaneous use of other drugs. The effect of Clotrimazole is enhanced by immunomodulators, immunostimulants, and balanced complexes of vitamins and microelements.

Pharmacotherapeutic group and action

Clotrimazole ointment is used for the effective treatment of genital candidiasis. Its antifungal effect is based on the pharmacological properties of the active ingredient - an imidazole derivative. To build cell membranes, pathogenic fungi produce the organic compound ergosterol. Clotrimazole blocks enzymes that stimulate its biosynthesis and prevents the spread of infection. Under the influence of the ointment, the permeability of the membranes changes, so the cell gradually dissolves. The drug exhibits antimycotic activity against the following pathogenic fungi:

• dermatophytes;
• yeast-like and mold fungi;
• causative agents of lichen versicolor.

When used in small doses, the drug has a fungistatic effect, preventing damage to healthy tissues. And frequent use of Clotrimazole ointment in large quantities helps to completely destroy thrush pathogens. The active ingredient enters into biochemical reactions with enzymes, increasing the concentration of hydrogen peroxide. Such an environment is toxic for fungi and causes the destruction of their cells.

After applying the product to the vaginal mucosa, about 5-10% of the active ingredient of the ointment is absorbed. It is metabolized by liver cells and evacuated from the human body along with bile.

Release form, composition and packaging

On pharmacy shelves there is Clotrimazole ointment from Russian and Indian Polish manufacturers. Products from domestic pharmaceutical factories are much cheaper, varying between 20-30 rubles. The price of an imported drug can exceed 80-100 rubles. The drug is available in the form of a 1% ointment with a jelly-like consistency without a characteristic odor. In addition to the active ingredient, it contains the following auxiliary chemical compounds:

• propylene glycol;
• polyethylene oxide;
• methylparaben;
• nipagin;
• cetostearyl alcohol;
• glycerol
• Castor oil;
• distilled water.

Auxiliary components enhance and prolong the clinical effect of Clotrimazole. They create a pH environment as close as possible to the acidity of human skin and mucous membranes. Propylene glycol ensures maximum absorption of the active ingredient and its even distribution in tissues. And castor oil moisturizes the mucous membranes, accelerating their regeneration. Cetostearyl alcohol is added to the composition, which makes Clotrimazole ointment help women eliminate unbearable itching.

The external product is packaged in aluminum tubes of 15.0 g, 20.0 g, 30.0 g, 40.0 g. Secondary packaging is a cardboard box with instructions for use inside.

Instructions for use for women

Women with thrush should start using Clotrimazole ointment at the first clinical manifestations. During treatment of vaginal candidiasis, it is necessary to avoid sexual intercourse. Otherwise, there is a high risk of re-infection from a partner.

The instructions for use of Clotrimazole ointment in gynecology recommend the simultaneous use of drugs to enhance immunity. If the body's resistance is low, a new recurrence of thrush is possible. The use of immunostimulants with an antimycotic agent (Immunal, echinacea tinctures, ginseng) will completely get rid of the disease.

Indications for use

Doctors prescribe Clotrimazole in the form of an ointment for the treatment of vaginal candidiasis at any stage of the pathology. It is used both for therapy and as a prophylactic agent. The drug for application to the vaginal mucosa destroys fungal pathogens and prevents exacerbations of thrush.

Clotrimazole ointment relieves a woman of severe discomfort - burning from itching in intimate places.

It is prescribed by gynecologists for the following purposes:

• prevention of activation of pathogenic fungi while taking systemic antibacterial drugs;
• prevention of the development of thrush in women with immunodeficiency conditions.

Clotrimazole ointment is introduced into the vagina before childbirth if vaginal candidiasis is detected in the mother. It sanitizes the mucous membranes and prevents infection of the child during passage through the birth canal.

Clotrimazole for thrush

This is one of the most accessible and frequently used remedies for the treatment of vaginal candidiasis. The therapeutic line of Clotrimazole includes: solution, cream, gel, vaginal suppositories and tablets. When diagnosing thrush of moderate and severe severity, medications are combined. The combination has worked well:

• tablets for insertion into the vagina and preparations for application to mucous membranes;
• vaginal suppositories with cream or gel.

In the treatment of complicated thrush in women, the doctor prescribes Clotrimazole and Fluconazole to quickly eliminate symptoms. This technique allows you to significantly speed up recovery and avoid relapses against the background of reduced immunity.

The use of Clotrimazole ointment for thrush in women is suspended during menstruation. At this time, you can use vaginal tablets or suppositories. Doctors strongly recommend avoiding douching during treatment for candidiasis, which contributes to the spread of infection. The sexual partner must be treated with antimycotics for external and internal use.

Contraindications and side effects

An absolute contraindication to the use of any dosage form of Clotrimazole is individual sensitivity to the components. This may not be the active ingredient, but rather substances used to form the tablets or cream. The external remedy should be used with caution in the presence of severe pathologies of the liver and urinary organs. Side effects of the drug include:

• burning and hyperemia;
• swelling of the epithelium;
• appearance of rashes.

After intravaginal use of Clotrimazole, in addition to the above symptoms, in rare cases, urination becomes more frequent. Swelling and hyperemia of the mucous membranes causes a feeling of dryness and itching. As the year progresses, the volume of curdled vaginal discharge increases. After consultation with a gynecologist, it is possible to adjust the dosage or replace the drug with an analogue.

Use during pregnancy and lactation

Clotrimazole ointment, gel or cream for thrush is prescribed by gynecologists only in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy. According to the results of clinical trials in late stages, the drug does not have a teratogenic effect. Despite the relative safety during therapy, the patient is advised to undergo regular laboratory blood monitoring.

A small amount of the active ingredient enters the systemic circulation. There is a possibility of its accumulation in breast milk. Therefore, it is better not to use any dosage forms of Clotrimazole during breastfeeding.

Directions for use and doses

Daily and single doses for vaginal administration of Clotrimazole are determined by the attending physician. The stage of the pathology and the degree of damage to the mucous membranes are of no small importance. The average dose is approximately 5 mm of a column of product squeezed out of the tube. How to use Clotrimazole ointment or cream for thrush in women:

• before the treatment procedure, it is necessary to wash the genitals with hygiene products and dry with a towel;
• apply the ointment not only to the area of ​​inflammation, but also to nearby healthy tissue.

Depending on the stage of the pathology and the number of complications that have developed, gynecologists recommend using the drug 1-3 times a day.

Treatment should not be stopped after the symptoms of vaginal candidiasis disappear. Therapy is carried out until the absence of pathogens is established in the biological sample. To prevent the development of adverse reactions, it is necessary to dose the medicine correctly.

Features of application

Clotrimazole for treating the intimate area is used as monotherapy or as part of complex treatment. While using it, you should avoid wearing synthetic underwear. Following the following medical recommendations will help speed up your recovery:

• drinking 2-2.5 fluids daily to remove products of the inflammatory process from the body;
• exclusion from the diet of foods high in sugar, which provoke the rapid proliferation of pathogenic fungi.

Recognized as one of the most powerful antifungal drugs Clotrimazole .

It has a wide spectrum of action and is available in various forms, which makes it possible to carry out therapeutic therapy as comfortably as possible.

Unlike most analogues, it is approved for use in children, pregnant and lactating women.

Compound

The drug is based on the substance of the same name - clotrimazole .

Additional components differ depending on the type of drug produced:

1. Tablet form. Contains lactose, corn starch, soda, aerosil, tartaric acid, magnesium.
2. Ointment. The composition contains polyethylene oxide, nipagin, propylene glycol.
3. Cream. Contains sterile water, polysorbate, alcohol, euthanol, olbrot.
4. Drops. The composition is supplemented with anhydrous ethanol and isopropyl myristinate.
5. Candles. The suppositories contain semi-synthetic glycerides.

Regardless of the form of release, the drug is sold in a pharmacy without a doctor’s prescription.

Indications for use

Used in gynecology and dermatology:

• Vaginal tablets and suppositories are prescribed for vulvovaginal candidiasis, trichomonas vaginitis.
• Also designated as prophylactic before performing gynecological procedures.
• Drops are effective against.
• Ointment and cream are used primarily in the treatment of dermatomycosis, mycosis, and erythrasma.
• They are also used to make appliqués for vulvovaginitis and balanitis.

Prescription restrictions

Prohibited for use if you are immune to the substances in the composition, in the first trimester of pregnancy.

It is prescribed with caution during lactation (it is recommended to abstain from breastfeeding during the period of medical therapy).

The drug in the form of ointment, gel, suppositories is not allowed for use during the menstrual period.

Do not use the medicine for treatment children before reaching the age of six!

Possible side effects, overdose

Some patients experience side effects when using Clotrimazole, such as:

• itching;
• burning;
• swelling of the mucous membranes of the vagina due to thrush;
• the appearance of specific vaginal discharge;
• headache;
• gastralgia;
• frequent urination;
• cystitis of intercurrent form;
• painful sensations during sexual intercourse.

In men itching may appear on the genitals (even if it is not he who uses the medicine, but his partner).

When the dosage permitted by the doctor was exceeded, no dangerous adverse reactions posing a threat to life were identified.

If the drug is used incorrectly (for example, when taken orally), there is a risk of the following symptoms:

• nausea;
• vomit;
• gastralgia;
• daytime sleepiness;
• hallucinations;
• development of allergic reactions.

Many patients experience a decrease in appetite, which often leads to anorexia.

It is important to note that there is no specific antidote.

If symptoms of overdose or poisoning appear, you must take activated carbon (at a dosage of 1 tablet for every 10 kilograms of weight). If necessary, the doctor prescribes symptomatic therapy.

Price and release forms

The cost of Clotrimazole depends on the form of its release and the manufacturer.

Candles

6 Russian-made suppositories can be purchased for approximately 50 rubles.

Pills

The Russian company Ozon produces tablets (6 pieces) for 30 rubles.

Imported packaging (Glaxo Smith Klein, UK) will cost approximately 55 rubles.

Ointment

Russian-made ointment can be purchased at a pharmacy for an average of 50 rubles(tube 15 g).

Cream/gel

The Israeli company Teva produces cream for 220 rubles.

Cream/gel from Glaxo Smith Klein (UK) will cost less - a 20 g tube costs approximately 165 rubles.

Drops

Clotrimazole Akrikhin produced in Poland, a 15 ml bottle can be purchased for approximately 280 rubles.

Instructions for use

How to use Clotrimazole ointment correctly:

Instructions for use for women and men:

1. Before applying ointment, cream or gel, the affected area must be thoroughly treated, rinsed with warm water and dried with a sterile cloth.
2. Apply the product in a thin layer and rub in with gentle massaging movements.
3. The procedure is repeated 2 to 3 times a day (depending on the diagnosis and the severity of the disease, the number of daily applications is determined by the doctor).
4. Duration of therapy is from 2 to 4 weeks.

The period of therapy depends on the existing disease.

For example, when mycosis skin treatment lasts at least a month, the symptoms of lichen disappear within a period of 1 to 3 weeks.

In case of fungal infection of the feet and/or nails, it is necessary to monitor the reaction to the drug. After the symptoms of the disease disappear, the drug must be used for another 2 weeks to consolidate the therapeutic effect.

Pills And suppositories must be inserted as deep as possible into the vagina. In most cases, the patient is prescribed a single daily dose of the drug, before bedtime.

The tablet/suppository is inserted in a lying position, with your legs slightly bent. The product kit includes a special applicator, with the help of which the administration of the drug is carried out more easily.

Advice: Before inserting the tablet, it is recommended to moisten it a little, so its dissolution after insertion into the vagina will be faster. It is important that the water is boiled and at room temperature.

For men the medicine is applied externally, the foreskin of the genital organ is treated with cream/ointment.

The product is applied in a thin layer, the procedure is repeated three times a day. Duration of treatment is a week.

Nail drops used daily, 2-3 times.

In this article you will learn about the antifungal cream "Clotrimazole", receive complete information about the indications and contraindications for the use of the medicine, as well as detailed instructions for its use. You will understand which Clotrimazole analogue is better suited to replace the main medication, and in which cases the cream should be replaced with another drug.

What's in it and how does it work?

Cream "Clotrimazole" - an antimycotic drug, the active substance of which is known in international medical practice as clotrimazole. Vaseline is used as a base for the ointment.

The main effect of the drug is fungistatic (slows down the growth of fungi). The effect is achieved by the fact that the medication prevents the production of ergosterol, a compound present in the cell membranes of microorganisms. As a result of damage to the cell membrane, the vital activity of fungi becomes impossible.

By interacting with the enzymes of microorganisms, the cream increases the volume of hydrogen peroxide, which has a detrimental effect on the condition of the fungi. The latter do not develop resistance to the drug. Only certain strains of Candida fungi are insensitive to the drug.

The ointment penetrates deeply into the layers of the skin, actively affects the mucous membranes, but is not absorbed into the bloodstream.

Important! Clotrimazole has an exclusively local effect. For chronic forms of mycoses, treatment with cream alone is not enough. Complex therapy is required.

When to use?

"Clotrimazole" is used to treat fungal pathologies of the skin and mucous membranes. It is effective against several types of microorganisms:

• molds and yeasts;
• dermatophytes;
• pathogens of lichen and erythrasma.

The ointment has an antimicrobial effect and helps in the fight against cocci, gardnerella, trichomonas and other gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.

For each type of fungal disease, there are optimal treatment time frames:

• erythrasma – from 2 weeks to 1 month;
• pityriasis versicolor – from 1 to 3 weeks;
• dermatomycosis – from 3 weeks to 1 month;
• damage to the vaginal mucosa - from 1 to 2 weeks.

The method of application for fungal diseases of the genital area is different for men and women:

• Women. Place 5 g of ointment daily into the vagina, including the outer genital area. The course of treatment is up to 3 days. If you are diagnosed with candidal vulvitis or balanitis, use the cream up to 3 times a day for 3 weeks. If a relapse occurs after some time, repeat the course of therapy.
• For men. Gently apply the ointment to the genital area 2 times a day. Continue the therapeutic course from 3 days to 1 week.

During treatment, observe the specifics of using the drug:

• Do not use the medicine around the eye area. The cream may cause an allergic reaction, since the skin in this area is especially delicate.
• If after a month of treatment the condition has not improved, change the antifungal drug.
• Carry out genital therapy together with your partner to avoid re-infection.
• Before using the medication, check yourself for allergies to the components of the drug. To do this, apply a little ointment to the bend of your elbow and observe the skin reaction. If there is no redness or rash, feel free to use the drug.

If you use Nystatin or Amphotericin B during treatment with Clotrimazole, please note that they reduce the effectiveness of the ointment.

The author of the video, obstetrician-gynecologist Liana Vesnina, will tell you about the methods of using Clotrimazole cream and other forms of this drug for the treatment of the female genital area. You will find out when the ointment is effective in treating vaginal candidiasis.

Adverse reactions and overdose

Sometimes side effects may occur when using Clotrimazole:

• burning sensation;
• peeling;
• redness;
• blisters;
• erythema.

No cases of drug overdose have been recorded. If you accidentally take Clotrimazole orally, you may experience headaches, nausea, and sometimes vomiting.

Analogs

Direct analogues of "Clotrimazole", i.e. drugs with the same active substance are:

• "Candide";
• "Kandibene";
• "Kanizon";
• "Amiclone";
• "Canesten."

If it is not possible to purchase a medicine based on clotrimazole, the drug can be replaced with an indirect analogue with another active ingredient:

• • The active substance of the drug is naftifine. It acts against fungi of the genus Candida, molds and dermatophytes. The cream is used for diseases of the skin of the legs, nails, and pityriasis versicolor. The price per package is 400-500 rubles.

• • A drug based on bifonazole suppresses the activity of pathogenic microorganisms. It is used for skin lesions by candida, dermatophytes, and is effective for pityriasis versicolor and erythrasma. The price in pharmacies is 350-500 rubles.

• • "Nizoral." The active substance of the drug is ketoconazole. "Nizoral" acts against various groups of fungi, and is good for lichen versicolor. The drug, in addition to being antimycotic, has an antimicrobial effect, suppressing the activity of bacteria. The price in pharmacies is 400-450 rubles.

• • The medication contains sertaconazole. Indications for use largely coincide with clotrimazole. "Zalain" can be used to treat mucous membranes. Price – 400 rubles.

• • The drug is based on amorolfine hydrochloride. The substance destroys the cellular metabolic processes of fungi, suppressing their growth and vital activity. It is used mainly for lesions of the nails and skin of the feet. Price – 1300 rubles.

• • (analogues of “Lamisil”, “Mikonorm”, “Binafin”, “Terbizil”). The active ingredient of the drug is terbinafine. It is effective against a wide group of fungal microorganisms, but the drug best treats mucosal candidiasis. Price – 70 rubles. The cost of direct analogues ranges from 100 to 500 rubles.

• • A new drug that contains a number of active ingredients. Among them are carbomer, methylparaben, climbazole, which effectively fight fungal infections. In addition, the composition includes vitamin E, essential oils and other natural ingredients. The medication has a wide spectrum of action, heals microcracks, accelerates blood circulation, and prevents relapses. The price in pharmacies is 300 rubles.

Replace Clotrimazole with a non-structural analogue only with the permission of a doctor. The drugs have different effects on microorganisms, so they may not be effective in treating a particular disease.

Question answer

If a woman did not know that she was pregnant and used Clotrimazole cream, what could be the consequences for the fetus?

If the cream is used vaginally, it may harm the development of the fetus. The use of Clotrimazole for the treatment of skin diseases is less dangerous, since the ointment is absorbed slowly and almost does not enter the bloodstream. In some cases, it is more worthwhile to beware of fungal infections: they can seriously harm the child. Screening at 10 weeks of pregnancy will help make sure that the pregnancy is progressing normally. The use of Clotrimazole in later stages is not dangerous for the baby.

Is it possible to replace Clotrimazole cream with suppositories or tablets for vaginal use?

"Clotrimazole" in the form of suppositories or tablets has a stronger concentration of the active substance. Traditionally, when treating fungal pathologies of the vagina, tablets and suppositories are combined with cream, lubricating the outer part of the genital organs with the latter.

If Clotrimazole cream was not effective in treating thrush, is it possible to repeat the course of therapy?

Clotrimazole cream or ointment works well at the early stage of the disease. For chronic candidiasis, combine the drug with vaginal tablets or suppositories or other antifungal medication. Often vaginal candidiasis is only a consequence of extensive damage by intestinal fungi. In this case, consultation with a gastroenterologist and oral administration of antimycotic tablets and probiotics are required to restore the microflora. If the intestines are treated correctly, the vaginal microflora returns to normal.

Is it possible to use Clotrimazole for other forms of lichen other than those mentioned above (for example, ringworm)? Will the treatment be effective?

Dermatologists often prescribe cream for various forms of lichen. In most cases, the ointment gives a positive result. The course of treatment lasts an average of 2-3 weeks, depending on the severity of the disease. If you do not see improvement within this time, tell your doctor and change your medication.

From this article you will learn how you can and should treat ringworm.

At what age can Clotrimazole be used for children?

The instructions for the medicine do not give any age restrictions. The drug is suitable for treating babies from birth, but you must first check the child’s skin reaction.

What to remember:

1. Clotrimazole cream acts against a wide group of fungi and bacteria.
2. Do not use the ointment in the 1st trimester of pregnancy and during lactation.
3. If there is no improvement within a month, change the drug to a more effective one.
4. Select a non-structural analogue of Clotrimazole only with your doctor’s permission, since such drugs contain a different active ingredient.
5. Before use, apply a little cream to the crook of your elbow to check the skin's reaction.

But is it worth overpaying your hard-earned money, since there is a wide range of effective and affordable medicines on sale? One such medication is a pharmaceutical called Clotrimazole. Today’s article will be dedicated to him.

Let us consider in detail: what clotrimazole ointment is, instructions for use, indications for use, side effects, features of use in childhood and during breastfeeding.

Clotrimazole is an ointment (cream) for external use with a pronounced antifungal effect. The base for liniment is medical petroleum jelly, which ensures a prolonged effect of the medicine. The healing agent, and also the main active ingredient, is clotrimazole, an imidazole derivative.

The synthesized antimycotic drug is used in the etiotropic treatment of infections of fungal etiology. The medication has a wide spectrum of action, and therefore must be in the home medicine cabinet.

The action of liniment is aimed at:

• suppression of the activity of bacteria and fungi;
• complete destruction of pathogenic microflora;
• resistance does not develop to the components of the drug, even with prolonged use.

Only a few strains of Candida are known that are inert to Clotrimazole.

Pharmacological group and action

Clotrimazole ointment is a non-hormonal drug belonging to the antifungal clinical and pharmacological group. The medication is used externally only. The antimycotic effect is aimed at preventing the intensive growth and spread of fungal cells, suppressing vital processes.

Clotrimazole affects the membrane structure of the cell, increasing its permeability Mechanism of influence on pathogenic microflora:

The final effect is determined by the dosage of the main component: a small concentration of clotrimazole prevents the development and spread of the fungus, and high doses of the same element destroy the fungal structure at the cellular level (fungicidal effect). The active substance affects the mitochondria of the fungus, disrupts the sequence of metabolic reactions, which leads to the saturation of cells with hydrogen peroxide. As a result, the cell dies very quickly.

Clotrimazole is characterized by mild antibacterial activity directed against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria.

Release form and composition

Today, the drug is produced by several companies located both in Russia and abroad. The medicine is available in several dosage forms:

• ointment (1%) – in aluminum tubes of 15, 20, 25, 30 and 40 g, supplied in cardboard boxes;
• gel (1%) – in aluminum tubes of 20 and 40 g, each of which is in a cardboard package with instructions for use;
• clotrimazole cream (1%)– in aluminum tubes of 15, 20, 30 and 50 g in cardboard packs indicating the date of production, composition and recommendations for application.

Vaginal suppositories and clotrimazole tablets are available for women, but we will devote a separate article to them, but today I would like to dwell in more detail on external use. Obviously, the listed dosage forms differ not only in packaging, but also in components.

Composition of drugs based on clotrimazole:

Some pharmaceutical companies produce the medicine in granular and powder form, but these are practically unavailable in pharmacies.

Instructions for use of clotrimazole cream

The drug Clotrimazole is intended for external use only, especially when it comes to antifungal therapy. In accordance with the official instructions, the cream is applied 2 to 3 times a day in a thin layer and then evenly distributed over the affected areas of the body. Regardless of what the medication is used for, only dry and clean areas of the epidermis are treated.

For serious and extensive fungal skin lesions and ulcers, the use of compresses based on medicinal cream is indicated. This will allow you to saturate the dermis with a large amount of medication and quickly achieve the desired effect.

The duration of the therapeutic course is determined by the attending physician individually for each patient. The specific timing depends on the effectiveness of the medications used, the location of the disease, and the severity of the disease.

Indications for use

If you do not know what Clotrimazole ointment helps with, we recommend that you consult a dermatologist before use. The main purpose of the drug is to eliminate pathologies and related ailments of fungal etiology.

The medication is prescribed for:

The drug is also prescribed for pathologies accompanied by bacterial infection and purulent discharge. There are known cases where streptoderma and herpes were effectively eliminated with the help of clotrimazole. Vaginally, the cream is used before delivery to sanitize the genital tract.

Contraindications and side effects

Liniment is characterized by exceptional tolerance by the human body. But those patients who have a history of the following complications should refrain from using clotrimazole ointment:

• the body's tendency to allergic reactions (hypersensitivity, including the skin);
• problems with liver function;
• the presence of unhealed or open wounds on the surface of the skin;
• individual intolerance to the components of the drug.

Adverse reactions with dosed local application of the drug are practically not observed. But you shouldn’t completely exclude them. We are talking mainly about temporary allergic manifestations:

• peeling of the epithelium;
• slight tingling after applying the cream;
• erythema;
• swelling, burning and itching.

To eliminate them, it is enough to stop using the ointment and wait from 6 to 48 hours; side effects do not require any treatment.

Many pregnant women develop severe thrush, which is quite expected. Often, the medication in question is not prescribed during the first trimester. But if a fungal disease (we are talking not only about thrush, but also other fungal infections) is actively progressing, and other medications are not effective, the doctor may take the corresponding risks.

It is important to note that during pregnancy, Clotrimazole is one of the safest drugs, both for the body of the expectant mother and for the fetus in the womb. It has a local effect without entering the main bloodstream.

When breastfeeding a child, it is better for the mother to refuse to use the medicine, because its effect on milk has not been studied. Some doctors suggest that the components of the ointment are able to penetrate into it, i.e. transmitted to the infant.

Use in childhood

Despite the safety and high tolerability of the drug, clotrimazole is contraindicated for children under 12 years of age. This is due to the lack of relevant clinical studies. However, as prescribed by a pediatrician and under his supervision, the use of liniment in short courses is allowed.

Directions for use and doses

Many patients do not know how to use medication to treat a particular ailment. Below are universal methods of using the drug, indicating the average doses for each procedure. Dermatologists emphasize the need to continue therapy (for 1.5-2 weeks) in cases where the symptoms of the disease have completely disappeared; the doctor discontinues the ointment after the patient has fully recovered.

• Fungal infections of the genital organs(thrush, etc. for men and women) - the affected areas of the skin are treated 2 to 3 times a day. The average dose is 1-2 mm of ointment for external application. The composition is lightly rubbed into the problem area, and the underwear is worn only after it is completely absorbed into the skin. The duration of therapy is until the painful symptoms disappear completely.
• Dermatomycoses - 1-3 mm of ointment is applied to the affected areas 2 times during the day. Treatment lasts from 2 to 4 weeks, if we are talking about multi-colored lichen - no more than 3 weeks.
• Vaginal cream used in a similar way. The optimal daily dosage for the skin and mucous membranes is 5 g/1 pc. Repeat frequency is 1 time per day. Duration of therapy – 3 days.

Each person’s body is individual, as are the characteristics of the pathology, and therefore it is important to coordinate every step with a doctor, strictly adhere to his recommendations, and follow the prescribed dosage.

special instructions

Before applying the medicine, you must read the instructions for use, which provide a number of special instructions:

• Clotrimazole gel has the same mechanism of action as ointment; its main difference is its convenient form for treating hard-to-reach areas. The gel is able to distribute evenly and quickly absorb into the skin.
• Liniment is contraindicated for infants; during lactation it is better to refrain from using the drug in question.
• When applying the composition, it is important to avoid contact with the mucous membrane of the eyes and the adjacent area.
• During the period of treatment for thrush, both partners must abstain from sexual relations.
• The cream should not get into open wounds.

If the slightest mistake is made when using the drug or an allergic reaction occurs, you must consult a doctor and stop drug therapy.