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Topical Antifungal

Clotrimazole 1% Cream

Brand names: Canesten, Canoderm

Clotrimazole 1% cream is a topical imidazole antifungal used to treat dermatophyte and Candida skin infections, including fungal colonisation of moist skin folds and healing burn or graft sites.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It inhibits fungal cytochrome-P450-dependent 14-alpha-demethylase, blocking ergosterol synthesis and damaging the fungal cell membrane.

Prescribing in practice

  • It is for external cutaneous use only and must be kept out of the eyes; if irritation or sensitisation occurs treatment should be stopped.
  • Treatment should continue for a period after clinical clearance to reduce relapse, as directed by current prescribing references.
  • The cream base may affect the integrity of latex condoms and diaphragms when applied to genital skin.

Monitoring

Monitor the treated area for clinical response and for any local irritation or contact dermatitis.

Counselling the patient

  • Apply a thin layer to the affected skin and surrounding area as directed.
  • Keep using it for the full recommended course even once the skin looks better.

Evidence & guidelines

Topical clotrimazole is a well-established, effective treatment for superficial dermatophyte and candidal skin infections.

Reference: NICE CKS Fungal Skin Infection; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.