Clotrimazole

Azole: a broad spectrum antifungal developed in 1967. It was one of the first azoles to be developed. Formulations are now generic in a number of countries.

It is effective against Candida albicans and the dermatophytes. Its action is fungistatic or fungicidal, depending upon the concentration used.
This azole drug is available in a variety of dosage forms, including oral lozenges and vaginal formulations. It is also available in a variety of combinations with antibiotics and corticosteroids.

Trade Name:

• Canesten* Bayer
• Mycelex* Bayer
• Desenex* Novartis

Oral:

• Lozenges: Clotrimazole 10 mg Mycelex*
• Topical: Cream: Clotrimazole 1% Desenex* Lotrimin*
          - Lotion: Clotrimazole 1% Desenex* Lotrimin*
          - Solution: Clotrimazole 1% Desenex*

Used for

• Tinea corporis
• Tinea cruris
• Tinea pedis
• Pityriasis versicolor
• Cutaneous candidiasis
• Nail and skin infections, fungal or gram positive

Therapeutic Regimen

Safety Information

• Avoid applying dressings that seal the area
• Elevated liver function tests have been observed in patients using Clotrimazole lozenges.

Side Effects

Local cutaneous effects may include irritation, hypersensitivity, burning, pruritus, erythema, fissuring, or swelling.

FDA Pregnancy Category C
Oral formulation shows toxicity in animal trials. Use is not recommended during pregnancy or lactation.

Mechanism of Action / Pharmacokinetics

Clotrimazole damages the fungal cell wall and alters the permeability. It also inhibits the activity of intracellular enzymes, leading to a buildup of toxic concentrations of hydrogen peroxide within the fungal cell, causing death of the cell. Systemic absorption is minimal.

Back to Antifungal Drugs Index