Brand Name(s): Cruex, Desenex, Lotrimin, Lotrimin AF
Generic Name Clotrimazole Topical
What is clotrimazole skin cream, lotion, or solution?
CLOTRIMAZOLE (Lotrimin®, Mycelex®) is an antifungal type of antibiotic. It treats ringworm and tinea infections, such as jock itch and athlete's foot. Generic clotrimazole skin cream, lotion, or solution are available.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•an unusual or allergic reaction to clotrimazole, other medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Clotrimazole skin cream, lotion, and solution are for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use (if treating hand or nail infections, only wash hands before use). Apply a thin layer of the product to cover the affected skin and surrounding area. You can cover the area with a sterile gauze dressing (bandage); do not use an airtight bandage (such as a plastic-covered bandage). Use at regular intervals. Finish the full course prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on your prescriber's advice.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.
What drug(s) may interact with clotrimazole?
•amphotericin B
Do not use any other skin products on the affected area without consulting your prescriber or health care professional. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from using clotrimazole?
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•skin irritation, burning, or itching
What should I watch for while taking clotrimazole?
Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days. Do not self-medicate for more than one week.
If your skin condition has not gotten better after 4 weeks, or if it returns when you stop using clotrimazole, see your prescriber or health care professional. You may have a skin infection that does not respond to clotrimazole.
To help clear up your infection completely and to help make sure it does not return, it is important to have good health habits. If you are using clotrimazole for jock itch, do not wear underwear that is tight-fitting or made from synthetic materials such as rayon or nylon. Instead, wear loose-fitting, cotton underwear. Also, dry the groin area completely after bathing. If you are using clotrimazole for ringworm of the foot (athlete's foot), carefully dry the feet, especially between the toes, after bathing. Do not wear socks made from wool or synthetic materials such as rayon or nylon. Instead, wear clean cotton socks and change them daily or more often if your feet sweat frequently. Also, try to wear sandals or shoes that are well-ventilated.
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
Store at room temperature between 2—30 degrees C (36—86 degrees F); do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
| Available at: www.DrugDigest.org | Last Updated:05/21/2002 |
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