Clotrimazole

What is Clotrimazole?

Clotrimazole is an antifungal treatment you use to treat yeast infections (also known as vaginal thrush). Clotrimazole Cream 1% is used to treat fungal skin infections, including thrush, and relieves irritation.

Yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of yeast cells called candida in your vagina and/or vulva. Clotrimazole targets the yeast cells and kills off the infection, relieving your symptoms.

How does Clotrimazole work?

Clotrimazole works by targeting the yeast that causes the infections. The active ingredient in Clotrimazole, clotrimazole, is a powerful antifungal treatment. It damagesthe outer membrane of each yeast cell by blocking the yeast cells from producing ergosterol, which is a substance that serves the same function cholesterol does in the human body.^[1]

Ergosterol keeps the yeast cells alive and helps them reproduce. Clotrimazole cream works locally in your vagina. It also helps to relieve itchiness and irritation. It kills off the yeast cells there and limits their growth, curing your yeast infection.

What doses of Clotrimazole cream are there?

Clotrimazole cream is available in one dose (1%). You will usually only need to use the medication for up to seven days. If it has been seven days since you started your treatment and your infection is still around, get in touch with a medical provider. You may need a different course of treatment. If you’ve had more than two instances of vaginal yeast infection in six months, tell a doctor. There may be something else causing your infection to keep coming back.

How to use Clotrimazole

Always use your Clotrimazole cream as your physician tells you to.

• Pierce the tube using the point on the cap and press.
• For internal use, use the applicator to insert each dose of cream into your vagina at bedtime, for three or seven days in a row, depending on your instructions.
• For external use, squeeze a small amount of cream onto your fingertip. Apply to itchy, irritated skin outside your vagina. Use it twice a day for up to seven days as needed.

How long does it take for Clotrimazole to work?

Most of the symptoms of your infection should clear within a couple of days. So things like itching, redness and discharge should vanish pretty quickly. The yeast cells will need to be combatted fully so that your infection won’t come back again, so you should continue using the cream for the full time your doctor prescribed, even if you start feeling better sooner.

What should I do if I make a mistake when using Clotrimazole?

Don’t swallow the cream. If you accidentally get it in your mouth or swallow it, seek medical attention right away.

If you forget to use the cream, apply it as soon as possible and complete your treatment. Try not to scratch the area as the infection will spread, and keep the area clean. Always wash your hands after using the cream.