What is this medicine?
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.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?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.
How should I use this medicine?
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 medicine?- 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 medicine?
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 should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?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
Can I stop taking the medication if I feel better?
As a general rule, you should always take your medications exactly as prescribed and do not change the dosage or stop taking the medication without first discussing it with your healthcare provider.
I am on so many medications; do I have to take them all?
This is called polypharmacy—many different medications being used at the same time by one person. Sometimes, being on multiple medications is acceptable and appropriate but at other times it may be problematic. If you are receiving your medications from multiple physicians you need to ensure that they all know what medications you are taking. The best way to do this is to make a list of all the medications you are currently using, including all nutritional supplements, homeopathic remedies, vitamins and over-the-counter drugs (if possible, also include all the diseases you have been diagnosed with). Give a copy to every doctor who takes care of you so they have it on file, this way they can avoid duplicating medications and perhaps even try to consolidate some. After every doctor's visit remember to update the list accordingly. Also, as much as you possibly can, try to use the same pharmacy to fill all your prescriptions, this way any potential drug interactions can be caught and averted.
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