Description of the drug
Clotrimazole is not an antibiotic or hormonal agent. The medicine is an antifungal drug that also exhibits an antimicrobial effect.
The product is produced in a variety of dosage forms and is intended for local and external use, therefore it is used regardless of the time of meal. Clotrimazole should not be prescribed in parallel with polyene antibiotics (Nystatin, Levorin, Natamycin).
All forms of release are equally effective against fungal infections and can be used by HIV-infected patients. Tablets and suppositories are intended for the treatment of women, other forms are for all categories of patients.
Information for buyers! This drug is over-the-counter. You can purchase any Clotrimazole product at a pharmacy without a doctor's prescription.
Release forms and composition
Release forms:
- vaginal tablets (100, 200, 500 mg, 1, 3, 6 pieces per package);
- suppositories (100 mg N 6 per pack);
- cream (1%, 2% in tubes of 30 and 50 g);
- gel (1% in tubes of 20 and 40 g);
- ointment (1% in tubes of 15, 20, 30, 40 g);
- solution (1% in 15 ml bottles);
- spray (bottles of 10 and 25 ml).
The main active ingredient of the drug is clotrimazole (10 mg per 1 g of product). In various release forms, the auxiliary components are starch, lactose, pronylene glycol, baking soda, cetostearyl alcohol, proxanol.
About the cost of the medicine. How much does Clotrimazole cost?
Clotrimazole is considered a budget drug. On average, its cost lies in the following ranges:
- ointment (20 grams in a package) - from 40 to 60 rubles;
- cream (20-30 grams) - from 70 to 150 rubles;
- solution (15 ml) - from 150 rubles per pack.
Considering that the drug lasts for a long time, the product can be called economical. In addition, reviews about Clotrimazole for nail fungus are mostly positive, so the low price should not be confusing.
Manufacturers
Clotrimazole is produced by domestic and foreign companies:
- Vertex.
- Ozone.
- Synthesis.
- Pharmacor Production.
- Zio-Health.
- Green oak grove.
- Pharmaprim.
- Magistra C&c.
- Medana Pharma.
- Sedate Health Care.
The price range of this product varies depending on the place of production. Thus, foreign drugs traditionally have a higher cost.
Where to buy, price
The drug is sold in any pharmacy, and it can also be ordered online - sometimes even with delivery. Price for the most common forms of the drug:
- Clotrimazole 100 mg n6 tab. vaginal - 10.00 rubles;
- Clotrimazole 1% 20g cream for external use (Ozone (Russia)) - 23.00 rubles;
- Clotrimazole ointment tube 1% 20g (Russia, Sintez (Kurgan) OJSC) – 23.00 rubles;
- Clotrimazole 1% 15ml solution for external use (Medana Pharma (Poland)) - 166.00 rubles.
Indications for use
Clotrimazole is used in the treatment of fungal diseases of the dermis, mucous membranes, mycoses of the feet, skin folds caused by mold and yeast-like fungi, dermatophytes. Such pathologies include:
- dermatomycosis;
- dermatophytosis;
- candidiasis;
- microsporia;
- stomatitis;
- interdigital fungal erosion.
The drug is also effective in eliminating pityriasis versicolor and pityriasis versicolor, complicated mycoses. It is used in the complex treatment of trichomoniasis and vulvovaginal candidiasis, some types of dermatitis, inflammation of the external ear, and diffuse otitis media.
Properties and action of Clotrimazole
The active substances included in the drug disrupt the synthesis of the main barrier link of the fungus. Ergosterol is the main structural element of their protective membrane. When it is damaged or destroyed, the protective function of the cell decreases. The permeability of the membrane is impaired, which leads to the death of the pathogen.
In addition, Clotrimazole inhibits the activity of intracellular oxidative enzymes. As a result, the amount of hydrogen peroxide inside the mushroom increases sharply and reaches its maximum point. The cell is destroyed from the inside - the organelles are destroyed, and the foreign organism dies.
The medicinal substance "Clotrimazole" is poorly absorbed through the skin epithelium and mucous membranes, but can accumulate (accumulate) in the superficial and deep layers of the epidermis, which helps in the treatment of fungal infections.
Contraindications
Clotrimazole does not have many contraindications. Taking the drug is prohibited in the first trimester of pregnancy, during breastfeeding and for persons with hypersensitivity to any of its components.
Vaginal tablets should not be used:
- For pathological vaginal bleeding.
- During menstruation.
- For uterine hemorrhages.
- In case of damage to the external genitalia.
- For discharge that has an unpleasant odor.
- For pain in the back, lower back, lower abdomen.
Attention! The drug is used externally only. In case of accidental ingestion, immediate symptomatic treatment is provided.
List
When choosing an antimycotic drug, it is necessary to be guided by both the type of infection and the presence of adverse reactions. There are a number of fungicidal preparations containing potent components that can negatively affect many organs and systems. Such drugs are prescribed when the fungal infection is generalized. Doctors try to select an ointment or solution for foot fungus with minimal side effects.
Lamisil
Lamisil is a foot ointment prescribed for fungus and odor. The main component is terbinafine hydrochloride. This substance is capable of fighting many types of pathogens. This drug is prescribed for foot fungus, itching, peeling, and cracks caused by skin lesions. Effective Lamisil ointment, very well tolerated. It is necessary to use the drug with caution if you are prone to allergies, impaired kidney and liver function, or the presence of tumors in the body. Side effects are rare. They can manifest themselves in the form of dizziness, disturbances of taste, and appetite. Rarely, diarrhea and abdominal pain are observed. The cost of Lamisil in a pharmacy is 470-510 rubles.
Exoderil
Exoderil is the most effective ointment used for fungus. The remedy has an anti-inflammatory effect, helps reduce the feeling of itching, and reduce swelling. Exoderil contains naftifine hydrochloride. This component penetrates deeply into the affected tissues and accumulates in them, gradually ridding the patient of pathogenic microorganisms. Exoderil ointment is prescribed together with other fungicidal drugs. If necessary, before using the medication, iodine can be applied to the problem area. The ointment should not be used if you are intolerant to naftifine and sodium hydroxide. The product is not applied to areas with open wounds and abrasions. The drug may cause redness of the skin and a burning sensation. The average price is 743 rubles.
Mycozoral
Mycozoral is an inexpensive but highly effective ointment. The active component ketoconazole has a detrimental effect on most types of mycoses. The product is used for lesions of the skin and nails. The main component is able to accumulate in tissues in the required quantity and maintain its fungicidal effectiveness even after completion of therapy. Mycozoral can cause hives, burning, and general fatigue. If such side effects occur, treatment should be stopped and consult a dermatologist. The drug is not prescribed to children under 2 years of age. The price of fungicidal ointment is 140 rubles.
Fundizol
Fundizol is a drug for local use. The ointment can be used when bacterial or fungal infections occur. The product softens nail plate tissues affected by fungus well. The basis of the drug is salicylic acid, zinc, celandine, oak bark, nipagin. Fundizol can be used for a long time. The drug very rarely causes allergic reactions and is approved for use by pregnant women and children. The cost of Fundizol is 130 rubles.
Terbinafine
Cheap ointments containing the active ingredient terbinafine help quickly cope with nail and foot fungus. The products are effective against epidermophytes and dermatophytes. The drug Terbinafine is often prescribed for chronic fungal infections. The remedy has a large number of contraindications. Terbinafine is not recommended for use in cases of dysfunction of the urinary system and liver, tumors, and a tendency to alcoholism. During use, redness and a burning sensation of the skin may occur. The average price is 81 rubles.
Salicylic ointment
Salicylic ointment has an anti-inflammatory, exfoliating effect. The drug is not fungicidal, but has powerful kerotolytic properties. Salicylic ointment is used for nail fungus in children and pregnant women. With long-term therapy, the drug relieves inflammation and exfoliates dead areas of affected tissue. Salicylic ointment for foot and nail fungus is safe and rarely causes an allergic reaction. The product can be used together with other antimycotic drugs. Salicylic ointment costs about 35 rubles.
Clotrimazole
Clotrimazole is an excellent remedy with a large list of actions. Most types of fungi are sensitive to the drug. The active component clotrimazole can act on pathogenic bacteria, often present at the site of tissue damage by mycosis. The drug is not used in the first months of pregnancy or lactation. Rarely, the drug can cause hyperemia and rashes on the skin. If urticaria occurs, the use of Clotrimazole should be discontinued. Price - 45 rubles.
Mycospor
The fungicidal agent Mikospor is used against dermatophytes and molds. The main component is bifonazole. This substance destroys the cell membrane of the microorganism and prevents reproduction. Mycospor can also be used for lesions of the skin of the feet and palms. The drug is not prescribed for intolerance to the components, pregnancy and age under 8 years. Mycospor can cause redness, peeling and itching of the skin. The price in pharmacies is 560 rubles.
Nizoral
Nizoral, the main component of which is ketoconazole, is used for ringworm, pityriasis versicolor, and athlete's foot. The drug is effective against many types of mycoses. Nizoral has only a local effect and is safe for the body. If you are highly sensitive to ketoconazole, you should avoid using the ointment. In some cases, the product causes skin swelling, hyperemia and rashes. No studies have been conducted during pregnancy and lactation. The decision to use the medication during these periods is made by the attending physician. The cost of Nizoral in pharmacies is 486 rubles.
Instructions for use and dosage for various diseases
Depending on the specific disease, Clotrimazole has different dosage regimens.
For thrush in women (candidiasis)
For vaginal candidiasis, the product is used in suppositories and in the form of an ointment. Suppositories must be administered once a day. The ointment is applied to the vaginal mucosa once a day, after hygiene procedures. The duration of baking is 3-6 days.
For nail fungus
With this diagnosis, all forms of the drug can be used, except vaginal tablets and suppositories. Numerous reviews say that for nail fungus, it is most convenient to treat with a solution.
Before applying the product, wash your hands or feet well with soap, steam, and remove the affected areas of the nail plates. Then a thin layer of the remedy is applied. The procedure is carried out 2-3 times a day for 2-7 weeks.
For mycosis of the feet
An ointment is used to treat this disease. The affected areas, including the spaces between the fingers, are thoroughly washed with soap and water and dried. The drug is applied three times a day for 1 month.
For pigment spots
Various forms of the drug will help to eliminate age spots on the face or other parts of the body equally effectively: cream, ointment, solution. In addition to reducing pigmentation, procedures using them contribute to noticeable lightening of the skin.
Before using the selected product, problem areas should be thoroughly cleaned. For this purpose, you can use tonics, lotions, or regular washing with soap and water. The drug is applied three times throughout the day in a thin layer. The minimum duration of the course is 2 weeks.
From deprivation
Cream (ointment, solution) are effective in case of development of pityriasis versicolor, versicolor and ringworm. Any products are applied three times a day to clean, dry areas of the skin. The procedure is performed over 3 weeks.
Side effects
When using any product, unwanted effects may occur. After applying Clotrimazole, sometimes there is a burning sensation, swelling, irritation or peeling of the skin. In rare cases, intense redness, blistering and parasthesia (sensitivity disorder manifested by sudden crawling sensations or slight tingling sensations) are observed.
In case of individual intolerance, an allergic reaction may begin, including hives and severe itching.
During pregnancy and breastfeeding
Clotrimazole should not be used in the first trimester of pregnancy. In the subsequent period, treatment becomes possible, since experimental studies did not reveal a negative effect of the drug on the health of the expectant mother or fetus. When using vaginal tablets, it is important to remember that they must be administered without an applicator.
The use of suppositories is allowed during breastfeeding. If treatment with ointment is necessary, it is important to avoid applying it to the lactating breast area.
Analogues, substitutes and generics
Clotrimazole can be replaced by the following analogues (generics):
- Kanizon.
- Ketoconazole.
- Lomexin.
- Metronidazole.
- Kanesten Combi.
- Klofan.
- Candide B6.
These substitutes for this product generally have a low cost, a composition as close as possible to the original, similar indications for use, and are available in various forms. The main difference is the concentration of the active substance.
Clotrimazole analogues
If you are not satisfied with this drug, you can ask your doctor to prescribe analogues for you. The most common analogues include Faktodin, Lotrimin, Gine-Lotrimin - they contain the same active ingredient. Analogs in structure can also include “Canesten”, “Antifungol”, “Clotrimazole-Acri”. The doctor may prescribe clotrimazole-containing drugs called Yenamazole, Amyclone. Canizon, Candida and Imidil have the same therapeutic effect. An identical active substance is included in the composition of “Kandizol”, “Candiben”. In total, there are several dozen analogues of the drug.
Comparison of drugs
Comparison of drugs that have a similar effect to Clotrimazole will allow you to make the right choice in each specific case.
Clotrimazole and Clotrimazole Akrikhin
There is often no difference in the action, composition and price of these drugs. The main difference is the name of the manufacturer.
Clotrimazole and Pimafucin
The drugs differ in composition, list of contraindications and cost. Pimafucin can be used at any stage in pregnant women, so in such circumstances the choice should be made in its favor. Its cost is several times higher than the price of Clotrimazole (about 500 rubles).
Clotrimazole and Nystatin
Nystatin has a low cost (about 26 rubles for 20 tablets). Treatment with the drug will require a combination of its various forms, which causes increased stress on the body. When choosing between two drugs, you should choose Clotrimazole.
