💧 Clotrimazole Drops 1% – As Licensed
📄 Description:
Clotrimazole 1% Drops is a topical antifungal medication formulated for otic (ear) or sometimes cutaneous use. It contains:
- Clotrimazole 1% w/v – an imidazole derivative antifungal
Used primarily to treat fungal infections of the ear canal or skin folds.
🧾 Prescription / Uses:
Indicated for:
- Otomycosis (fungal ear infections), especially caused by Candida and Aspergillus species
- Dermatomycoses of moist areas (when used off-label topically)
Usual Otic Dose:
- 2–3 drops twice daily for 7–14 days, or as directed
- Continue for a few days after symptom relief to prevent recurrence
🔬 Nature:
- Class: Imidazole antifungal
- Mechanism: Inhibits ergosterol synthesis in fungal cell membranes → causes membrane dysfunction and fungal cell death
- Broad antifungal activity, especially effective against Candida and Aspergillus
🌟 Advantages:
- Rapid action against most ear fungal infections
- Minimal systemic absorption
- Can relieve itching, discharge, and irritation in otomycosis
- Generally safe and well-tolerated
📦 Packaging:
- Sterile dropper bottles (commonly 10 mL)
- Amber or opaque packaging to protect from light
- External use only (marked clearly on label)
🧊 Storage:
- Store at room temperature (below 25°C)
- Keep away from sunlight and moisture
- Do not freeze
- Use within 4 weeks of opening
⚠️ Precautions:
- Not for ophthalmic use (do not use in eyes)
- Avoid contaminating dropper tip
- Use with caution if tympanic membrane (eardrum) is perforated
- Not recommended for use in children <3 years without medical supervision
- If symptoms worsen or persist >7 days, re-evaluation is advised
Side Effects (rare):
- Mild burning, irritation, or itching
- Allergic reaction (rash, swelling) – discontinue and consult doctor
👩⚕️ Patient Advice:
- Clean ear canal gently before applying drops
- Lie with affected ear upward for a few minutes after application
- Do not insert cotton buds or objects into the ear during treatment
- Complete the full course, even if symptoms resolve early
- Do not share the bottle with others
- Contact your healthcare provider if no relief in 5–7 days