What is Clotrimazole?
Clotrimazole cream is an antifungal medication that is used topically to treat the external irritation that is caused by thrush. Thrush is caused by an organism- yeast, also known as "candida albicans" this occurs naturally in a balance, issues may arise when the yeast overgrows resulting in some very uncomfortable symptoms; these can be alleviated with the use of clotrimazole. Although thrush is not classed as a sexually transmitted infection (STI) it is advsiable not to engage in sexual intercourse to prevenet exacerbating or spreading the infection to others..
What are the symptoms of thrush?
Symptoms for thrush can vary between men and women
the following symptoms can be experienced by women
a white discharge emitted from the vagina similar to cottage cheese
vaginal itching/irritation
stinging during sexual intercouse or during urination.
Symptoms for thrush experienced by men include:
unpleasant smell
white discharge (again similar to cottage cheese) around the foreskin
burning, redness and irritation around the tip of the penis and under the foreskin along with difficulty pulling the foreskin back.
Thrush can also affect other regions of the body.
How to use clotrimazole?
Clotrimazole cream should be applied in a thin layer (1/2cm) on clean dry skin 2-3 times daily. Thrush will usually begin to clear up within 7 days of treatment with clotrimazole however it's often recommended to continue for 2 weeks to prevent re-infection.
For men, it is recommended to apply the clotrimazole cream to the penis and foreskin 2-3 times daily for up to 10 days.
If symptoms persist after this please visit your GP for further advice and consultation. Please ensure that you read the patient information leaflet prior to taking any medication.
What are the side effects of using clotrimazole?
Although side effects for the use of clotrimazole are not very often reported it is difficult to express the frequency at which they occur, however you should note that the presence of alcohol can cause skin irritation and therefore should not be used on broken skin. Since systemic absorption can follow topical application, the possibility of interactions with topical clotrimazole should be considered so be mindful to declare all your current medications to your prescriber.
Following the application of the cream, you may experience the following:
Itching, rash, blisters, burning, pain, swelling, and other symptoms
Skin that is red, irritated, or peeling.
If you notice any of the above symptoms or have a different negative reaction Inform your doctor right away.
Can I take clotrimazole if I am pregnant?
During pregnancy the body undergoes many changes which also means developing thrush. Clotrimazole can be used during pregnancy and pregnant women need a longer duration of treatment, usually about 7 days, to clear the infection. If you are pregnant however, you will need to get this medication prescribed under the care of your GP or midwife.
Can I take clotrimazole if I am breastfeeding?
Although the levels entering the milk are low the risk to a suckling child can not be excluded therefore manufacturers advise avoid breastfeeding while using this medication.
