CLOTRIMAZOLE

clotrimazole cream

clotrimazole pessaries 

Drug classification

Broad spectrum antimycotic with antifungal activity- for topical application

Pharmacology

Clotrimazole is   a broad spectrum antifungal that is used for treatment of dermal infections caused by various species of pathogenic dermatophytes, yeasts, and Malassezia furfur. The primary action of clotrimazole is against both dividing and growing of organisms

Invitro clotrimazole exhibits fungistatic and fungicidal activity against isolates of trichophyton rubrum, trichophyton mentagrophytes, Epidermophyton floccossum and Microsporum canis. Strains of fungi having resistance to clotrimazole have not been reported.

Mechanism Of Action

It interferes with ergosterol synthesis and therefore alters the permeability of the cell membrane of sensitive fungi.

Pharmacokinetics

When applied topically, it penetrates the epidermis but there is little if any systemic absorption. Absorption of 3-10% have been reported following vaginal administration. Its then metabolized in the liver to inactive compounds that are excreted in urine and feces. No measurable amount was found in serum after application under occlusive dressing of the solution or 0.8g of the cream

Indications

The confirmed indications for clotrimazole include

-          All dermatomycoses due to dermatophytes (e.g. trichophyton species)

-          All dermatomycoses due to yeasts (candida species)

-          Dermatomycoses due to molds and other fungi

-          Skin diseases showing super infections with these fungi

Interdigital mycoses (eg athletes foot) paronychias (associated with nail mycoses) mycoses in skin folds, candida vulvitis, candida balanitis, pityriasis versicolor erythrasma

Application and dosage

Applied two to three times daily to the affected area. On account of excellent efficacy, a small amount of cream is sufficient for an area about the size of the palm

For treatment to become a full success, reliable and sufficient long application of the cream is important

Durations

Dermatomycoses    3-4 weeks

Candida vulvitis and balanitis 1-2 weeks

Erythrasma and pityriasis versicolor 3 weeks

For fungal infection of the feet, to prevent relapses, treatment should be  continued for about 2 weeks after disappearance of all signs of disease. After washing, feet should be thoroughly dried

side effects

local reaction including irritation and burning sensation may occur in patients treated topically ; contact allergic dermatitis has been reported

tolerance

 when applied topically, clotrimazole is perfectly tolerated. With external application, no systemic effects are to be expected

presentation

collapsible tube for cream

pessaries for vaginal administration

storage

store in a cool dry pace not more than 30 c. protect from sunlight and keep from reach of children.