Indications
- Effective against various dermatomycoses caused by dermatophytes such as Trichophyton species.
- Treats dermatomycoses caused by yeasts like Candida species.
- Addresses dermatomycoses resulting from molds and other fungi.
- Suitable for skin conditions with superinfections by these fungi.
Examples of treatable skin infections include interdigital mycoses (e.g., athlete’s foot), paronychias (related to nail mycoses), mycoses in skin folds, Candida vulvitis, Candida balanitis, Pityriasis versicolor, and erythrasma.
Description
Afun serves as a versatile antifungal solution designed to combat dermal infections caused by various pathogenic organisms, including dermatophytes, yeasts, molds, and bacteroids. Additionally, Afun exhibits activity against certain gram-positive bacteria, particularly Staphylococci and Tricomonas. Operating like other imidazoles, Afun disrupts fungal cell wall integrity by interfering with cell wall lipids. Its fungistatic effect primarily inhibits ergosterol synthesis, but at higher concentrations, it induces membrane damage independent of sterol synthesis.
Pharmacology
Clotrimazole primarily disrupts the permeability barrier of fungal cell membranes, leading to inhibition of ergosterol biosynthesis, an essential component of fungal membranes. This inhibition prevents the construction of intact and functional cell membranes. Apart from its antimycotic properties attributed to reduced ergosterol levels via lanosterol 14-demethylase inhibition (CYP51), clotrimazole also exerts additional pharmacological effects. These include inhibition of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase, depletion of intracellular calcium, and blockade of calcium-dependent potassium channels and voltage-dependent calcium channels. These multifaceted actions contribute to the broader effects of clotrimazole beyond its antimycotic activity.
Dosage & Administration
- Clotrimazole Cream: Apply thinly 2-3 times daily to affected areas, ensuring thorough rubbing. Due to its high efficacy, a small amount of cream is usually adequate for palm-sized areas. Treatment duration varies depending on factors such as disease extent and localization:
- Dermatomycoses: 3-4 weeks
- Candida vulvitis and Candida balanitis: 1-2 weeks
- Erythrasma and Pityriasis Versicolor: Approximately 3 weeks
- For fungal foot infections, continue treatment for about 2 weeks after signs disappear to prevent relapse. After washing, ensure thorough drying of the feet, particularly between toes. Clotrimazole Cream is odorless, washable, and non-staining.
- Clotrimazole Topical Solution: Apply sparingly to affected areas, gently rubbing in two or three times daily.
Interaction
No known interactions have been reported.
Contraindications
Avoid using Clotrimazole if you have a known hypersensitivity to the medication.
Side Effects
When applied topically, Afun is generally well-tolerated. Systemic effects are rare with external application. In very few cases, local irritation or a burning sensation may occur, but these symptoms are typically not harmful.
Pregnancy & Lactation
It is advisable to use Clotrimazole during pregnancy only if deemed necessary by a healthcare professional.
Therapeutic Class
Belongs to the category of drugs used for subcutaneous and mycoses, specifically topical antifungal preparations.
Storage Conditions
Store below 25°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
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