Clotrimazole: What It Treats and How to Use It

Clotrimazole is a common antifungal you’ll find as a cream, lotion, spray, or vaginal tablet. People use it for skin fungal infections like athlete’s foot, ringworm, and jock itch, and for vaginal yeast infections. It’s simple to use and available over the counter in many countries, but knowing how to apply it and when to get medical help matters.

How to use clotrimazole

For skin infections, clean and dry the affected area first. Apply a thin layer of 1% cream once or twice daily, usually for 2–4 weeks depending on the infection. Follow the package or your doctor’s instructions—stop treatment too early and the fungus can come back. For vaginal yeast infections, clotrimazole often comes as a 100 mg or 500 mg tablet or cream you insert at night for 1–7 days. Avoid sex during treatment and don’t use tampons while inserting a vaginal product unless the instructions say it’s okay.

If you use clotrimazole for athlete’s foot, dry your feet well and change socks daily. For ringworm on the body, keep the area uncovered when possible so it can breathe. Don’t cover treated areas with tight bandages unless your provider tells you to—occlusive coverings can trap moisture and make things worse.

Side effects, safety, and when to see a doctor

Most people only get mild side effects like local burning, redness, itching, or stinging where the medicine is applied. If you notice severe rash, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing, seek emergency care—these signs may mean a serious allergic reaction. If symptoms don’t improve after the full treatment course, or they come back quickly, see a healthcare provider. Recurrent vaginal yeast infections may need testing or a different treatment.

Systemic side effects are rare with topical clotrimazole because little gets into the bloodstream. Still, tell your doctor if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications. In pregnancy, topical clotrimazole is often recommended over oral antifungals, but check with your clinician first. If you’re breastfeeding, avoid putting cream on the nipple unless you pump and discard milk until treatment is finished or your provider approves.

Clotrimazole isn’t the right choice for all infections. Bacterial infections, psoriasis, eczema, or other skin problems can look like fungal infections. If the area has pus, extreme pain, fever, or spreads fast, get medical help—these signs need a doctor’s exam.

Store clotrimazole at room temperature away from kids and pets. Don’t use expired products. If you’re unsure which formulation to pick, ask a pharmacist—many can suggest the right strength and duration for common problems.

Want quick relief? Start with the recommended treatment and keep going for the full time. If things don’t clear or you keep getting infections, talk to a healthcare professional for testing and stronger or different treatment options.