Article: Clotrimazole

Clotrimazole
Systematic (IUPAC) name
1-[(2-chlorophenyl)-diphenyl-methyl]imidazole
Identifiers
CAS number	23593-75-1
ATC code	A01AB18 D01AC01, G01AF02
PubChem	2812
DrugBank	APRD00244
Chemical data
Formula	C22H17ClN2
Mol. weight	344.837 g/mol
Pharmacokinetic data
Bioavailability	?
Protein binding	90%
Metabolism	?
Half life	2 hours
Excretion	?
Therapeutic considerations
Pregnancy cat.	FDA category C (oral) and B (topical); ADEC(Australia) category A
Legal status
Routes	topical

Clotrimazole is an antifungal medication commonly used in the treatment of fungal infections of both humans and animals such as vaginal yeast infections and ringworm. It also cures athlete's foot and nail infections.

It is commonly available as an over-the-counter substance in various dosage forms, such as a cream, and also (especially in the case of ear infection) as a combination medicine. In the latter case, it typically includes an antibiotic such as Marbofloxacin, and is applied in liquid form, as ear drops.

Fungal infections can be slow to clear up, so the usual course for an anti-fungal agent is usually longer than the typical 3-7 days of an antibiotic.

Women who suffer from vaginal yeast infections, such as candidiasis, can buy clotrimazole at a pharmacy. However, women should contact their doctor on the first occurrence of a vaginal yeast infection instead of self-diagnosing.

In the UK, the drug is marketed under the name Canesten.

Drug interactions

Clotrimazole is a potent, specific inhibitor of cytochrome P450 oxidase enzymes. Hence, it may alter the metabolism of other drugs particularly if taken orally.

Side effects

• Burning
• Irritation of the skin