Clotrimazole is an antifungal medication sold under the brand names Lotrimin and others. It treats vaginal yeast infections, oral thrush, diaper rash, tinea versicolor, and ringworm infections such as athlete’s foot and jock itch. It can be taken orally or applied topically to the skin or vagina.
When taken orally, comon side effects include nausea and itchiness. When applied to the skin, typical side effects include redness and a burning sensation. Use on the skin or in the vagina is considered safe during pregnancy. There is no evidence of harm when used orally during pregnancy, but this has received less attention. When taken orally, those with liver problems should exercise extra caution. It is an azole medication that works by disrupting the fungal cell membrane.
Clotrimazole was first isolated in 1969.
It is on the World Health Organization’s Essential Medicines List.
It is available as a generic drug.
