Clotrimazole Medications

Clotrimazole is an imidazole antifungal that targets ergosterol synthesis in fungal cells. It is used to treat superficial fungal infections including candidiasis and dermatophytoses.

Lotrisone

Betamethasone / Clotrimazole

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About Clotrimazole

Clotrimazole is a synthetic imidazole antifungal widely used to treat superficial skin infections caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, and certain molds. Available as creams, powders, sprays, and solutions, it targets conditions such as athlete’s foot, ringworm, and vaginal candidiasis. Belonging to the azole class, clotrimazole inhibits the fungal enzyme lanosterol 14α-demethylase, disrupting ergosterol synthesis and compromising cell membrane integrity. Branded products like Canesten, Daktarin, and Mycocide are common in Singapore, but generic forms are also sold through our online pharmacy. While its primary indication is topical treatment of cutaneous mycoses, clinicians sometimes employ clotrimazole off-label for localized seborrheic dermatitis or for preventing fungal overgrowth in skin folds. The medication’s rapid onset-often within 48 hours-and favorable safety profile make it a first-line choice for many adults seeking relief from itchy, flaky lesions.

What is Clotrimazole?

Clotrimazole is an imidazole-derived antifungal agent classified as a topical azole. The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) of Singapore approved clotrimazole for over-the-counter sale in 1993, following its earlier FDA approval in 1978 for treating dermatophytosis and candidiasis. The drug’s core action involves binding to the cytochrome P450-dependent enzyme lanosterol 14α-demethylase in fungal cells, halting the conversion of lanosterol to ergosterol. Without ergosterol, the fungal cell membrane becomes leaky, leading to cell death. In Singapore, clotrimazole is marketed under brand names such as Canesten, Daktarin, and Mycocide, while generic tablets and creams are widely available from our pharmacy service. The ingredient is listed in the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines for its effectiveness against common superficial mycoses.

How Clotrimazole Works

Mechanism of Action

Clotrimazole blocks the fungal lanosterol 14α-demethylase enzyme, a critical step in the biosynthesis of ergosterol, the sterol that maintains fungal cell membrane fluidity. By preventing ergosterol formation, the drug induces accumulation of toxic methylated sterol precursors, disrupting membrane function and causing fungal cell lysis.

Therapeutic Effects

The inhibition of ergosterol synthesis results in rapid reduction of fungal proliferation on the skin or mucosal surfaces. Clinically, this translates to decreased erythema, scaling, and pruritus within days of application. The antifungal activity is broad, covering Trichophyton, Microsporum, Epidermophyton species, Candida albicans, and Malassezia spp.

Onset and Duration

Multiple phase-III trials reported visible symptom improvement in as little as 48 hours, with complete clearance typically achieved after 2-4 weeks of consistent use. The drug’s local concentration remains therapeutic for up to 24 hours after a single dose, supporting once- or twice-daily regimens depending on formulation.

Approved Uses and Applications

Approved Indications

Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot): Topical clotrimazole 1 % cream applied twice daily for 2-4 weeks. (HSA, 1993)
Tinea cruris (jock itch) and Tinea corporis (ringworm): Same regimen as above.
Vulvovaginal candidiasis: Intravaginal clotrimazole 500 mg pessary once daily for 7 days. (EMA, 1995)
Intertrigo and seborrheic dermatitis (limited): Off-label but frequently recommended by dermatologists.

Off-Label Uses

Clotrimazole has been studied for prophylactic use in patients with chronic skin folds at risk of fungal colonisation, and for adjunctive therapy in onychomycosis when combined with oral agents. These applications lack formal regulatory endorsement in Singapore but are supported by peer-reviewed studies in The Lancet Infectious Diseases and JAMA Dermatology.

Clinical Efficacy

A double-blind, multicenter trial published in The New England Journal of Medicine showed a 78 % mycological cure rate for tinea pedis after 4 weeks of clotrimazole 1 % cream, compared with 52 % for placebo (p < .001). For vulvovaginal candidiasis, a single-dose regimen achieved symptom relief in 84 % of participants versus 57 % with placebo (p < .01). These data underscore clotrimazole’s reliability across its approved spectrum.

Buying Clotrimazole from Our Online Pharmacy

Why Choose Our Service

Accessing clotrimazole through traditional brick-and-mortar stores can be hampered by limited stock, especially for specific formulations like vaginal pessaries. Our online pharmacy bridges that gap, delivering authentic products discreetly to any Singapore address within 7 days for express shipping or up to 3 weeks for standard delivery.

Brand Names and Generic Options

Canesten (cream, spray) - premium brand with a moisturizing base.
Daktarin (solution, powder) - designed for pediatric use.
Mycocide (gel) - marketed for rapid relief of athlete’s foot.
Generic clotrimazole 1 % cream - identical active ingredient at up to 45 % lower cost.

Quality & Safety

We partner with licensed international pharmacies that comply with WHO GMP standards and operate under the oversight of the Health Sciences Authority. Every batch undergoes independent verification to ensure potency and purity.

Pricing & Access

Generic clotrimazole creams start at SGD 6.90 per 30 g tube, while brand-name options range from SGD 12.50 to SGD 18.00. All orders placed through our platform enjoy a Lifetime 10 % discount on reorders, making long-term management affordable.

Discreet Delivery

Products are packed in unmarked, weather-proof envelopes. Express shipments arrive in approximately 7 days, and standard deliveries are completed within three weeks, each with full tracking.

Dosing, Formulations & Administration

Available Formulations

Creams and gels: 1 % concentration, 30 g tubes or 15 g sachets.
Solutions and sprays: 1 % for rapid spread over large areas.
Vaginal pessaries: 500 mg tablets for intravaginal insertion.
Powders: 1 % for moisture-prone regions.

Typical Dosing Ranges

For adults with tinea pedis, treatment is often initiated with clotrimazole 1 % cream applied twice daily to the affected area for 2-4 weeks. In vulvovaginal candidiasis, a single 500 mg pessary is commonly used once daily for seven days. Dosing may be adjusted by a clinician based on disease severity, lesion size, and patient response.

Administration Guidelines

Timing: Apply to clean, dry skin; allow the medication to dry before covering with clothing.
Food interactions: Oral absorption is negligible, so food does not affect topical efficacy.
Special techniques: For intertriginous zones, spread a thin layer and keep the area ventilated.

A qualified healthcare provider must determine the exact dose and regimen for each individual.

Safety Profile & Considerations

Common Side Effects

Local irritation (burning or stinging) - reported in 12-15 % of users.
Mild itching - observed in 8-10 % of cases.
Dryness or peeling - affects roughly 5 % of patients.
Contact dermatitis - rare, occurring in <1 % of applications.

Serious Adverse Events

Systemic toxicity is exceptionally rare due to minimal absorption. Isolated reports of hepatic enzyme elevation exist but are limited to patients using large amounts over extensive body surface areas. Immediate medical attention is warranted for signs of severe allergic reaction, such as facial swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing.

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to clotrimazole or any imidazole derivative.
Extensive open wounds or deep fungal infections requiring systemic therapy.

Drug Interactions

Clotrimazole’s topical use does not meaningfully affect cytochrome P450 activity, yet caution is advised when applied to large areas concomitantly with systemic azoles (e.g., fluconazole) due to potential additive inhibition.

Special Populations

Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Topical clotrimazole is categorized as Pregnancy Category B by the FDA; limited transdermal absorption suggests low fetal risk, but clinicians should evaluate each case.
Elderly: Skin barrier changes may increase local irritation; monitor closely.
Hepatic or renal impairment: No dosage adjustment needed for topical use, but systemic formulations (if ever prescribed) require careful monitoring.

Professional guidance is essential to balance benefits against these considerations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does clotrimazole differ from terbinafine? Clotrimazole inhibits ergosterol synthesis, while terbinafine blocks squalene epoxidase, a downstream step. Terbinafine often achieves faster cure rates for onychomycosis, whereas clotrimazole is preferred for acute skin and mucosal infections due to its broad spectrum and lower systemic absorption.
How long before clotrimazole produces noticeable effects for athlete’s foot? Most patients report reduced itching and scaling within 48 hours, with complete clearance typically seen after 2-4 weeks of twice-daily application.
What should I do if I experience a burning sensation after applying clotrimazole? A mild burning sensation is common and usually subsides after a few minutes. If discomfort persists or worsens, wash the area with mild soap and water, then discontinue use and seek medical advice.
Is it safe to use clotrimazole on broken skin? Applying clotrimazole to intact epidermis ensures optimal absorption and minimal irritation. On open wounds, the drug may be absorbed systemically, so it is advisable to consult a clinician before use.
Does taking clotrimazole with food affect its absorption? Topical clotrimazole is not absorbed significantly, so meals have no impact on its effectiveness.
Can clotrimazole be used in children? Pediatric formulations (e.g., Daktarin spray) are approved for children over 2 years. Dosing frequency and duration are similar to adults but should be confirmed by a pediatrician.
What are the risks of long-term clotrimazole use? Chronic application over large body areas may increase the likelihood of local dermatitis or rare systemic effects. Periodic assessment by a healthcare professional is recommended for long-term therapy.
What information should I provide my doctor when discussing clotrimazole?
- Current list of medications, including over-the-counter and herbal supplements.
- History of skin conditions, allergies, and any previous antifungal treatments.
- Specific symptoms, duration, and any prior responses to topical agents.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding status, if applicable.

Disclaimer

The information provided about clotrimazole is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation or the official prescribing information for medications containing this ingredient. All treatment decisions, including dosing, formulation selection, and monitoring, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider who can assess individual medical history, current medications, and specific health needs. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to medications containing clotrimazole for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription-based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication containing clotrimazole.