Clotrimazole Skin Cream, Lotion, Ointment or Solution

What is this medication?

CLOTRIMAZOLE (kloe TRIM a zole) is an antifungal medicine. It is used to treat certain kinds of fungal or yeast infections of the skin.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Alevazol, Anti-Fungal, Antifungal, Cruex, Desenex, Fungoid, Lotrimin, Lotrimin AF, Lotrimin AF Ringworm, Micotrin AC, Mycozyl AC

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

•an unusual or allergic reaction to clotrimazole, other antifungals or medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives

•pregnant or trying to get pregnant

•breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medicine is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash your hands before and after use. If treating a hand or nail infection, wash hands before use only. Apply a thin layer to the affected area and a small amount to the surrounding area. Rub in gently. Do not get this medicine in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. Use this medicine at regular intervals. Do not use more often than directed. Finish the full course prescribed by your doctor or health care professional even if you think you are better. Do not stop using except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug has been used in young children for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

•amphotericin b

•topical products that have nystatin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not start to improve after 7 days. Do not self-medicate for more than one week.

If you are using this medicine for 'jock itch' be sure to dry the groin completely after bathing. Do not wear underwear that is tight-fitting or made from synthetic fibers like rayon or nylon. Wear loose-fitting, cotton underwear.

If you are using this medicine for athlete's foot be sure to dry your feet carefully after bathing, especially between the toes. Do not wear socks made from wool or synthetic materials like rayon or nylon. Wear clean cotton socks and change them at least once a day, change them more if your feet sweat a lot. Also, try to wear sandals or shoes that are well-ventilated.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

•skin irritation, burning

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 2 to 30 degrees C (36 to 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.