Clotrimazole cream is an antifungal medication used to treat skin infections caused by fungi or yeast. It works by stopping the growth of fungi that cause infection. Clotrimazole cream is used to treat various skin infections, including:
- Athletes foot
- Jock itch
- Ringworm
- Fungal nail infection
- Infected nappy rash
- Rash in folds of skin (intertrigo)
- Pityriasis (tinea versicolor), a fungal infection that causes a lightening or darkening of the skin of the neck, chest, arms, or legs
- Yeast infections of the skin
To use clotrimazole cream, wash the affected area and dry thoroughly. Then apply a small amount of cream to cover the affected area of skin with a thin layer. If you are treating athletes foot, pay special attention to the spaces between the toes when applying clotrimazole. Also, be sure to wear well-fitting shoes that allow for air circulation, and change shoes and socks at least once a day. If you are using the liquid, do not apply it to any severely cracked or irritated areas. It usually takes around 7 days of clotrimazole treatment for fungal infections to improve. Apply clotrimazole to the infected area 2 or 3 times a day for at least 2 weeks. Do not use clotrimazole cream, spray, or solution for more than 4 weeks, unless a doctor tells you to. Fungal infections can become resistant to clotrimazole and it can stop working properly. The most common side effect of clotrimazole is skin irritation in the area youve treated.
