clotrimazol

Clotrimazol, commonly written as clotrimazole in many texts, is an azole antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections of the skin, mucous membranes and, in certain formulations, the vagina and mouth. It works by inhibiting the fungal cytochrome P450 enzyme 14-α-demethylase, a key step in the synthesis of ergosterol, which disrupts the integrity of the fungal cell membrane and impedes growth.

Clotrimazol is formulated in several dosage forms, including topical creams, lotions and solutions for skin infections; vaginal tablets or creams for candidal vulvovaginitis; and oral troches or lozenges for oropharyngeal candidiasis. Topical preparations are typically applied to affected areas once or twice daily for a period that depends on the site and severity of infection, often lasting several weeks for skin infections. Vaginal products are used as directed on the label, usually over several days. Oral forms are used to treat mouth infections and should be dissolved slowly in the mouth as prescribed.

Common indications include dermatophytoses such as tinea corporis, tinea cruris and tinea pedis, cutaneous candidiasis, oral thrush (odontogenius oropharyngeal candidiasis), and vaginal candidiasis. It is sometimes used off-label for other fungal infections as advised by clinicians.

Pharmacokinetics vary by route; topical use results in minimal systemic absorption, while oral forms achieve higher systemic exposure with hepatic metabolism and renal excretion. Adverse effects are typically local and mild, including irritation, burning, redness or itching at the application site. More rarely, hypersensitivity reactions or gastrointestinal symptoms may occur with oral forms. Clotrimazol is generally considered safe in pregnancy when used as directed, and patients should consult a healthcare professional about potential drug interactions, especially with systemic azoles or anticoagulants, when using non-topical formulations.