How does clotrimazole work?
Clotrimazole works by killing the fungus (yeast) that is causing the infection.
Clotrimazole kills fungus by causing holes to appear in its cell membrane and the contents leak out. This kills the fungus and treats the infection.
How long does it take to work?
The symptoms of fungal infections, such as itching or soreness, should get better within a few days of treatment. Red and scaly skin may take longer to get better.
You may need treatment for between 1 and 4 weeks.
Keep using clotrimazole for 2 weeks even if your symptoms have gone. This will stop the infection coming back.
Talk to a doctor if your symptoms do not get better within 7 days. You may need a longer course of treatment or a stronger medicine.
Are there any long-term side effects?
Do not use clotrimazole cream, spray or solution for more than 4 weeks, unless a doctor tells you to.
A fungal infection can become resistant to clotrimazole, which means it will no longer work properly.
How does clotrimazole compare to other antifungal medicines?
There are other antifungal medicines that are similar to clotrimazole, including:
- econazole (cream)
- miconazole (cream, spray powder, powder)
- ketoconazole (cream)
- terbinafine (cream, gel, spray, solution)
- griseofulvin (spray)
You can buy any of these from a pharmacy. Ask the pharmacist what medicine is best for you.
Will it affect my contraception?
Clotrimazole cream, spray and solution will not affect any type of contraception, including the combined pill or emergency contraception.
Can I drink alcohol while using clotrimazole?
Yes, you can drink alcohol while using clotrimazole.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
No, you can eat and drink normally while using clotrimazole.
Can lifestyle changes help fungal infections?
If you have a fungal skin infection, these tips may help:
- Do not scratch the area with the infection as this will damage the surface of the skin and the infection could spread.
- Keep the affected areas of skin clean.
- Keep the affected areas of skin dry where possible, but do not rub too much with a towel.
- Do not share towels with other people as you could spread the infection to them.
- Always wash your hands after treating the infection to stop it from spreading.