Clotrimazole is a synthetic antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections. Clotrimazole is available as a 10 mg lozenge or troche, as a cream or lotion, and as a vaginal suppository. Indications for use include oral candidiasis (also called thrush), vaginal yeast infections and skin infections such as tinea pedia. Clotrimazole side effects vary depending on the indications for treatment and treatment route used.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Gastrointestinal side effects that may be experienced are nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Patients using the clotrimazole troche may also experience elevated liver function tests. These patients should have regular lab tests to monitor liver function while taking clotrimazole.
Clotrimazole troche may also cause an unpleasant sensation in the mouth as well as pruritis (itching). If side effects are intolerable, patients should notify the prescribing provider.
Dermatologic Side Effects
When clotrimazole is used to treat topical fungal infections, a potential side effect is a rash. Symptoms may range from mild itching and redness to swelling, blistering and peeling skin. The urticaria (itchy rash) may be localized or generalized affecting the entire body. Notify your health-care provider if this occurs.
Genitourinary
If Clotrimazole is being used to treat a vaginal fungal infection, lower abdominal cramping may occur. Although this may be an expected side effect, it is wise to report pelvic pain to your health-care provider.
Clotrimazole may also cause urinary frequency, which is a sensation of needing to urinate often. These symptoms should be mild; report continued and excessive symptoms of urinary frequency to your doctor.
If patients using this medication have intercourse, burning or irritation may be experienced by the sexual partner. Preferably, intercourse should be avoided during treatment. If engaging in sexual intercourse, condoms should be used to prevent re-infection.
Warnings
Do not stop using the medication just because symptoms have improved or resolved. Continue using Clotrimazole as directed until completion of prescribed course. Long-term use (several weeks) may be needed.
Safety of Clotrimazole use in pediatric patients under 3 years of age and elderly patients over 65 years of age has not been established; therefore, avoid use or use cautiously under close supervision of a health-care provider.
Report worsening of the symptoms being treated to your health-care provider; also report any adverse effects such as pelvic pain, frequent or severe nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
References
- National Institute of Health Daily Med Sheets
- Karch, A. M. (2008). 2008 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide. New York: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins
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