Clotrimazole

What is Clotrimazole?

Clotrimazole is a topical antifungal that treats athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis. Athlete’s foot is a fungal skin condition characterized by itchy, scaly, cracked, and dry patches of skin. It can only be treated with antifungals. This is typically a topical antifungal cream, such as terbinafine or clotrimazole, your doctor might prescribe oral antifungal medicine if your symptoms aren’t going away.

How does Clotrimazole work?

Clotrimazole works by stopping the fungus that’s causing your infection from making a fat-like substance called ergosterol. Without ergosterol, the fungus can’t survive.^[1]

How does Clotrimazole compare with Betamethasone?

Clotrimazole is a topical antifungal that treats fungal infections, while Betamethasone is a corticosteroid that reduces swelling and inflammation. Betamethasone isn’t typically prescribed for athlete’s foot on its own, but if there’s severe swelling, your doctor might recommend using it to help with your symptoms.

Betamethasone alone might worsen your infection, so it’s important that you only use it if you’ve been told to by your doctor.

There are, however, medications containing a combination of clotrimazole and betamethasone that are used to treat athlete’s foot.

Will I get side effects from Clotrimazole?

You might get side effects while using Clotrimazole, but it’s not guaranteed (many people don’t). Possible side effects include itchiness, redness, or a burning sensation right after applying the cream. The side effects should only last a short while, but if they persist or worsen, let your doctor know.

What doses of Clotrimazole are there?

Clotrimazole comes in a single dose of 1%. It’s usually applied twice a day.

How to use Clotrimazole

Before applying the cream, make sure to wash and dry your feet thoroughly. Apply a thin layer to the affected area twice a day, rubbing it in gently. Continue using it daily, even after your symptoms have cleared; this may take a few weeks or months.

It’s important to use Clotrimazole for the entire duration recommended. Stopping treatment early can cause your infection to return.