Topical Antifungal Agent: Clotrimazole is a synthetic azole antifungal agent designed for topical use on the skin.1 The 1% concentration is a common and effective strength for treating a variety of fungal infections.
Ointment Formulation: The ointment is a semisolid preparation that provides a protective barrier and is particularly useful for treating dry, scaly skin lesions.
Broad Spectrum: Clotrimazole has a broad spectrum of activity against a range of fungi, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds, which are responsible for most superficial fungal infections.2
Over-the-Counter Availability: Clotrimazole 1% ointment is often available over-the-counter, making it easily accessible for the treatment of common fungal skin conditions.3
Nature
Azole Antifungal: Clotrimazole is a member of the azole class of antifungal drugs.4
Mechanism of Action: Its primary mechanism of action is to inhibit the synthesis of ergosterol, a crucial sterol that is a major component of the fungal cell membrane.5
Disruption of Cell Membrane: By inhibiting ergosterol synthesis, clotrimazole damages the integrity and permeability of the fungal cell membrane, which leads to the leakage of cellular contents and ultimately cell death.6
Fungistatic and Fungicidal Activity: At lower concentrations, it can be fungistatic (inhibits fungal growth), while at higher concentrations, it can be fungicidal (kills the fungus).7
Advantage
High Efficacy: It is highly effective at treating a wide range of common superficial fungal infections with a high rate of clinical and mycological cure.8
Established Safety Profile: Clotrimazole has an excellent safety profile for topical use, with minimal side effects when applied correctly. It has been used for many years, providing a wealth of clinical experience.9
Minimal Systemic Absorption: When applied to the skin, clotrimazole is poorly absorbed systemically. This minimizes the risk of systemic side effects and makes it a safe option for localized infections.
Various Formulations: It is available in multiple topical formulations, including ointments, creams, powders, and solutions, allowing for a choice of product that is best suited for the specific type of lesion and body area.10
Uses
Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s Foot): Indicated for the treatment of athlete’s foot, especially between the toes, to alleviate symptoms like itching, burning, and scaling.11
Tinea Cruris (Jock Itch): It is used to treat jock itch, a fungal infection of the groin area, to relieve redness and itching.12
Tinea Corporis (Ringworm): Indicated for the treatment of ringworm on the body, which presents as a characteristic circular rash with a raised border.13
Cutaneous Candidiasis: It is also used to treat cutaneous candidiasis, a yeast infection of the skin that can occur in warm, moist areas like skin folds.14
Storage
Temperature: Store Clotrimazole Ointment at a controlled room temperature, typically between 1520∘C to 1625∘C (1768∘F to 1877∘F).19
Protection: Keep the tube tightly closed and protected from light, moisture, and excessive heat.20 Do not freeze the product.
Administration: The ointment should be applied in a thin layer to the affected area and the surrounding skin, usually twice daily (in the morning and at bedtime).21 The affected area should be thoroughly cleaned and dried before application.
Duration of Treatment: The full course of treatment should be completed, even if symptoms improve. Discontinuing treatment early may lead to a recurrence of the infection.22
