What is clotrimazole?
Clotrimazole is a widely effective antimycotic agent for the local treatment of fungal infections. It is the most commonly used active ingredient for vaginal fungi and also for other skin fungal diseases.
Clotrimazole is available as vaginal tablets (Ovula), vaginal cream and as a combination with cream for the outer area. Local application has the advantage that hardly any active substances enter the body cycle.
Known brand names are Canesten® and numerous generics.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Clotrimazol
Clotrimazole interferes with the fungal cell membrane:
Active mechanism:
- inhibits ergosterol synthesis in fungal cells
- Without ergosterol, the fungal membrane becomes permeable
- The fungal cells die (fungicide) or are prevented from growth (fungistatic)
Activity spectrum:
- Candida species (including Candida albicans)
- Dermatophytes
- mold mushrooms
- yeasts
Local effect: In vaginal application, Clotrimazole acts directly at the infection site. Systemic recording is minimal.
Who is it suitable for?
Clotrimazole is suitable for:
- Acute vaginal mushroom
- Vulvovaginal candidose
- Accompanying therapy for oral treatment
- Pregnancy (priority)
Advantages:
- Local action without systemic stress
- Applicable in pregnancy
- Also for the outer genital region
- No relevant interactions
Not suitable:
- Bacterial infections
- If the diagnosis is uncertain
Available Dosages
Vaginal tablets:
- 100 mg (6 days)
- 200 mg (3 days)
- 500 mg (1 day, one dose)
Vaginal cream:
- 1% or 2%
- Mostly 5 g once a day for 3-6 days
Combination packages:
- vaginal tablets + cream for external application
Recommendation: In acute vaginal mushroom: 500 mg vaginal tablet as a single dose or 200 mg for 3 days.
How to Take
Vaginal tablets: 1. In the evening before bed Two. Insert deep into the vagina (applicator or finger) 3. Best in lying 4. During treatment no tampons
Vaginal cream:
- Bringing in deep with applicator
- Apply night
- Apply external cream to Vulva
General Notes:
- Continue treatment during menstruation
- Keeping the full treatment time even in case of improvement
- Cotton underwear
- Dealing with partners in symptoms
Contraindications
**Clotrimazole must not be used at:* *
- hypersensitivity to clotrimazole or other azoles
Preview at:
- First appearance of vaginal mushroom (consult doctor)
- Symptoms that do not fit to vaginal mushroom
- Frequently recurring infections
pregnant: Clotrimazole is the means of choice for vaginal fungi during pregnancy. In the 1st Trimester without applicator.
Style time: Can be applied. Local application, minimal systemic recording.
Possible Side Effects
Acid (1-10%):
- Burn
- Itching
- Roasting
- Outflow
** Occasionally (0,1-1%):* *
- Allergic reactions
- Swelling
- Skin rash
Selten:
- Sensitivity reactions
** A light burning at the beginning of the treatment is normal and no reason for settling. In case of severe complaints, consult doctor.
Interactions
No systemic interactions for vaginal/topic use.
Can affect:
- Latex condoms and diaphragms – effectiveness can be reduced!
- Use alternative prevention during treatment
Combinable with:
- Oral antimycotics (Fluconazole) in severe infections
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is clotrimazole right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor. Read the package leaflet before use.