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Clotrimazole

Generic name: clotrimazole [ kloe-TRIM-a-zole ]
Brand name: Mycelex Troche
Dosage form: oral lozenge (10 mg)
Drug classes: Azole antifungals, Mouth and throat products

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 10, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is clotrimazole?

Clotrimazole is used to treat and prevent yeast infections of the mouth and throat in adults and children older than 3 years.

The clotrimazole lozenge is not absorbed through your stomach. clotrimazole will not treat fungal infections in any other part of your body.

Clotrimazole may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Clotrimazole side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Common side effects of clotrimazole may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use clotrimazole if you are allergic to it.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had liver disease.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How should I take clotrimazole?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Clotrimazole is usually given 3 to 5 times per day. Allow the lozenge to dissolve slowly in your mouth without chewing.

You may need liver function tests.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Avoid freezing.

Clotrimazole dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Oral Thrush:

Treatment: 10 mg orally 5 times a day for 14 days

Prophylaxis: 10 mg orally 3 times a day for the duration of chemotherapy OR until steroids are reduced to maintenance levels

Comment:
-Safety and efficacy of treatment doses given for a prolonged duration have not been established. Treatment should be limited to short-term use when possible.

Uses:
-Local treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis that has been confirmed by a KOH smear of other culture before treatment.
-Prophylaxis to reduce the incidence of oropharyngeal candidiasis in patients who are immunocompromised (e.g., chemotherapy, radiotherapy, steroid therapy in the treatment of leukemia, solid tumors, or renal transplantation)

Usual Pediatric Dose for Oral Thrush:

3 years and older:
Treatment: 10 mg orally 5 times a day for 14 days

Prophylaxis: 10 mg orally 3 times a day for the duration of chemotherapy OR until steroids are reduced to maintenance levels

Comment:
-Safety and efficacy of treatment doses given for a prolonged duration have not been established. Treatment should be limited to short-term use when possible.

Uses:
-Local treatment of oropharyngeal candidiasis that has been confirmed by a KOH smear of other culture before treatment.
-Prophylaxis to reduce the incidence of oropharyngeal candidiasis in patients who are immunocompromised (e.g., chemotherapy, radiotherapy, steroid therapy in the treatment of leukemia, solid tumors, or renal transplantation)

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking clotrimazole?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect clotrimazole?

Clotrimazole is not absorbed through your stomach and is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. However, tell your doctor about all your current medicines, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Frequently asked questions

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.