0

Home > Drug Category > Anti-Fungal > Canesten Cream 1% and Equivalent

Canesten Cream 1% (Clotrimazole) Information

Canesten Cream 1% (clotrimazole), a synthetic imidazole derivative, is used widely as a broad-spectrum topical antifungal agent. It is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication indicated for the treatment of various common fungal and yeast infections of the skin. These include tinea pedis (athlete's foot), tinea cruris (jock itch), tinea corporis (ringworm), and cutaneous candidiasis (yeast infections of the skin). It may also be used to treat pityriasis versicolor, a common skin condition caused by yeast. Clotrimazole is applied directly to the affected skin area, typically once or twice daily, for a treatment duration that varies depending on the specific infection but often lasts between two and four weeks. Patients must complete the full course of treatment even if symptoms resolve quickly to prevent recurrence.

The mechanism of action for clotrimazole is fungicidal (killing) at high concentrations and fungistatic (inhibits growth) at lower concentrations. Clotrimazole works by inhibiting the biosynthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of the fungal and yeast cell membrane. By preventing ergosterol synthesis, the drug impairs the structural integrity and function of the cell membrane, leading to leakage of cellular contents and ultimately, the death of the fungal or yeast organism. Since ergosterol is unique to fungi and not found in human cells (which use cholesterol), clotrimazole selectively targets the invading organisms with minimal systemic effect on the patient. Because the cream works only locally, systemic absorption is minimal.

Canesten Cream 1% Side Effects

As a topical medication, Canesten Cream 1% primarily causes localized reactions at the application site. Common side effects are generally mild and temporary, and include localized stinging, burning, irritation, and redness (erythema) immediately after application. Other mild reactions can involve the skin becoming slightly dry or peeling, and mild localized itching (pruritus). These symptoms often resolve as the skin adjusts to the treatment or upon discontinuation of the cream.

However, more serious side effects can occur, although they are rare due to the minimal systemic absorption of the drug. If any of the following symptoms are experienced, the patient should stop applying the medication and seek immediate medical attention:

• Allergic Contact Dermatitis: A delayed hypersensitivity reaction characterized by an intense, spreading rash, severe redness, blistering, or weeping at the site of application and sometimes extending to surrounding areas.

• Hypersensitivity/Anaphylaxis (Systemic): Though extremely rare, systemic allergic reactions may occur. Symptoms include severe swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, dizziness, and difficulty breathing.

• Worsening Infection or Secondary Infection: If the application site develops signs of a bacterial infection (e.g., pus, spreading warmth), or if the underlying fungal infection worsens or does not improve after several days of treatment, the cream should be discontinued, and medical advice should be sought.

Canesten Cream 1% Precautions

Canesten Cream 1% is for external use only and should not be swallowed. It must be kept away from the eyes. It should not be used in the vagina or mouth, as different formulations (e.g., vaginal tablets) exist for mucosal sites. A crucial precaution for use in the groin area is that the non-medicinal ingredients in the cream can damage latex and rubber products, such as condoms and diaphragms, rendering them ineffective. If irritation or symptoms of hypersensitivity (such as increased redness, burning, or itching) persist or worsen after several days of treatment, the medication should be discontinued. A healthcare provider should be consulted to confirm the diagnosis or adjust therapy. Patients with a known history of hypersensitivity to imidazoles (clotrimazole, miconazole, etc.) should use this product with caution, and generally, only one topical medication should be used on the affected area at a time unless otherwise directed by a physician. For topical infections of the nail (tinea unguium), creams are often ineffective, and systemic (oral) antifungal agents may be required. The area being treated should be kept clean and dry to aid in the therapeutic process and prevent re-infection.

Do I need a prescription to order Canesten Cream 1%?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Canesten Cream 1%.