Clotrimazole Description

Generic Name: CLOTRIMAZOLE

Pronunciation: (kloe trim' a zole)

Trade Name(s): Cancap-VT, Candid - V Gel, Candid Vaginal, Candinil, Canesten, Clobrate VT, Clomax, Clomax V3, Clomax V7, Clomax Vaginal gel, Clotrin - V, CTM - V, Decand - V3, Decard - V6, Gynostatum, Gynotrim, IMIDIL vaginal, Lotril, Surfa z, Triben VT, Vagid

Why it is prescribed: Clotrimazole stops the growth of organisms that cause vaginal infections; skin infections such as athlete's foot, jock itch, and body ringworm; and oral thrush.

When it is to be taken: Clotrimazole is usually used five times a day for oral thrush, twice a day for skin infections, and once a day at bedtime for vaginal infections. Clotrimazole must be used regularly to be effective. Follow the instructions on the package or your prescription label carefully. The itching of skin infections usually decreases within one week.

How it should be taken: Clotrimazole comes in the form of cream, lotion, and liquid to be applied to the skin; lozenges to be dissolved in the mouth; and vaginal cream and tablets. The label on the package or your prescription label tells you how much to use at each dose. The topical cream, lotion, or liquid should be applied sparingly and rubbed gently into the cleansed area and surrounding skin. You should wash your hand after applying the medication. The lozenges should be placed in the mouth and dissolved slowly over about 15 to 30 minutes. Do not chew or swallow the lozenges whole. If you are using clotrimazole vaginal cream or tablets, read the instructions provided with the medication and follow these steps:
(1) Fill the special applicator that comes with the cream to the level indicated or unwrap a tablet, wet it with lukewarm water, and place it on the applicator as shown in the accompanying instructions.
(2) Lie on your back with your knees drawn upward and spread apart.
(3) Gently insert the applicator into the vagina; then push the plunger to release the medication.
(4) Withdraw the applicator.
(5) Discard the applicator if it is disposable. If the applicator is reusable, pull it apart and clean it with soap and warm water after each use.
(6) Wash your hands promptly. You may wish to wear a sanitary napkin while using the vaginal cream or tablets to protect your clothing against stains. Do not use a tampon because it will absorb the drug. Do not douche unless your doctor tells you to do so.
(7)Continue using clotrimazole vaginal cream or tablets even if you get your menstrual period during the time of treatment.

Special Instruction:
1. If your doctor ordered clotrimazole for you, use all of the medication prescribed, even if you think that the infection has disappeared. Failure to do so could allow the infection to return.
2. If you obtained the skin cream or liquid without a prescription, use it for four weeks for athlete's foot and two weeks for jock itch or body ringworm. If your symptoms do not improve by that time, stop using the medication and consult a doctor.
3. If this is the first time you have had vaginal itching and discomfort, consult a physician before using clotrimazole. However, if a doctor previously told you that you had a yeast infection and you have the same symptoms again, use the vaginal cream or tablets as directed on the package for seven consecutive days, preferably at night.
4. If you obtained clotrimazole vaginal cream or tablets without a prescription and your symptoms do not improve within seven days, contact your doctor. If your symptoms return in less than two months, also contact your doctor.
5. Do not use clotrimazole vaginally if you have abdominal pain, fever, or foul-smelling discharge. Contact a physician immediately.
6. If you have a vaginal infection, wear clean cotton panties.
7. Keep this medication away from your eyes.
8. If you forget to take a dose, apply the missed dose when you remember it, and apply the next dose at the regularly scheduled time. However, if you remember a missed dose at the time you are scheduled to take the next one, omit the missed dose entirely. Do not use a doubledose.

Side Effects:
1. Itching, redness, swelling, and irritation of the skin. Stop using clotrimazole and contact your doctor.
2. Nausea, vomiting. Contact your doctor.
3. Burning, irritation. If these effects are severe, contact your doctor.

Other Precautions:
1. If you are pregnant, inform your doctor before using clotrimazole.
2. If you become pregnant while using clotrimazole, tell your doctor.

Storage Conditions: Keep clotrimazole in the container it came in and out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature.