Generic name: clotrimazole topical [ kloe-TRIM-a-zole ]
Brand names: Alevazol, Anti-Fungal Liquid, FungiCURE Pump Spray, Lotrimin AF Cream for Ringworm, Lotrimin AF For Her, ... show all 11 brands Lotrimin AF Jock Itch, MPM Anti-Fungal, Prescription Strength Cruex, Votriza-Al, Lotrimin AF Cream, Lotrimin Jock Itch Powder
Dosage forms: topical cream (1%), topical lotion (1%), topical ointment (1%), topical solution (1%), topical spray (1%)
Drug classes: Topical antifungals, Vaginal anti-infectives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Feb 3, 2025. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is clotrimazole topical?

Clotrimazole topical (for the skin) is used to treat skin infections such as athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm.

Clotrimazole topical is also used to treat symptoms from fungal infections including scaly skin, itching, cracking, burning, redness, soreness, irritation, and discomfort.

Clotrimazole topical will not work on nail or scalp infections.

Clotrimazole topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Clotrimazole topical side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Clotrimazole topical may cause serious side effects. Stop using clotrimazole topical and call your doctor at once if you have:

• blistering, peeling;

• swelling, redness, oozing, hives; or

• burning, itching, or other irritation.

Less serious side effects may be more likely, or you may have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

Warnings

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use clotrimazole topical if you are allergic to it.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not apply clotrimazole topical to a child less than 2 years old without medical advice. Do not allow a child to use clotrimazole topical without help from an adult.

How should I use clotrimazole topical?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Clotrimazole topical comes in many different forms (lotion, spray, cream, ointment, powder, and solution).

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.

Wash your hands before and after applying this medicine, unless you are using it to treat a hand condition.

Clean and dry the affected area before application. Apply a small amount of this medicine (usually twice daily) for 2 to 4 weeks.

Do not cover treated skin with a bandage or dressings unless your doctor tells you to.

You may need to follow a special attention to the spaces between your toes. Wear well-fitting clothing, ventilated shoes, and change your shoes and socks at least once daily while treating athlete's foot.

Keep using this medicine for the full treatment time even if your symptoms quickly improve.

Stop using the medicine and call your doctor if symptoms do not improve or if they get worse. Athlete's foot and ringworm should improve within 4 weeks, and jock itch should improve within 2 weeks.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of clotrimazole topical is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medicine.

What should I avoid while using clotrimazole topical?

Avoid getting clotrimazole topical in your eyes.

Avoid wearing tight-fitting, synthetic clothing that doesn't allow air circulation. Wear clothing made of loose cotton and other natural fibers until the infection is healed.

What other drugs will affect clotrimazole topical?

Medicine used on the skin is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use, but many drugs can interact. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Frequently asked questions

• What are the most common skin conditions? (with photos)

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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