Public health libraryEducational information. No account needed.

Medication guide

Clotrimazole

Generic name
Clotrimazole
Common brand names
Lotrimin AF Cream
Medication class
Topical azole antifungal

Overview

Its medication class is Topical azole antifungal. Common uses include Superficial fungal infections. Product forms and labels can differ, so follow the specific package instructions and ask a pharmacist or qualified healthcare professional about individual questions.

How to Take it

Route
Topical skin product.
Time of day
Apply once to twice daily; for rash/fungal products continue through full course.
With food/water
External use only.
Preparation
Apply thin layer to clean, dry skin; patch test where possible.
Safe dose
Small layer over affected lesions only.
Max dose
Do not exceed area/frequency limits on label.
Frequency
Usually once to twice daily.
Other recommendations
Stop if severe burning, swelling, or spreading redness appears.

Common uses

  • Superficial fungal infections

Common side effects

  • Redness
  • burning
  • itching
  • skin irritation
  • contact dermatitis
  • and rash

Important warnings

  • Avoid eye contact and internal vaginal/rectal misuse unless specific formulation. Incomplete treatment may lead to resistance or recurrence. Avoid using with multiple antifungals or irritants on the same lesion. Seek care if lesions spread, pain, fever, or severe swelling develops.

General interactions information

Low topical interaction potential

Sources / references

These references offer further reading. A source link does not establish that a clinician has reviewed every statement in this guide.

Editorial record

Recorded content review date:

A named medical reviewer and their credentials have not yet been documented for this guide.

Editorial standards and corrections
Browse all medications →