Antimicotico

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Antimicotico

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Clotrimazol
Forms Cream, Solution, Powder, Vaginal Tablet
Pharmacological class Azole Antifungal
Application Type Local and Topical
Origin Synthetic Compound (Imidazole Derivative)

What is Antimicotico? Defining the Clotrimazol Entity

Antimicotico is the medical designation for a medicine whose active core is Clotrimazol [INN], a substance developed to counteract pathogenic fungi. This compound is formally classified as a synthetic compound that belongs to the imidazole category within the larger family of azole antifungal drugs.

The primary purpose of this medicine is derived from its function as an antimycotic agent, offering utility against a diverse spectrum of fungal organisms, including common yeasts like Candida and various molds responsible for superficial mycoses. Clotrimazol is defined by its imidazole derivative structure, which provides the biochemical specificity required to disrupt fungal growth processes. This reliability in managing a wide range of fungal infections underpins its clinical recognition and its inclusion on the List of Essential Medicines.


Composition and Available Forms for Local Application

This medication is typically produced as a single-active-ingredient product, incorporating Clotrimazol into a suitable carrier for efficient topical and local application. The various pharmaceutical preparations are designed to target specific areas and include familiar forms such as a cream, a liquid solution, fine powder, and the specialized vaginal tablet. Products containing Clotrimazol are widely recognized for their accessibility, often being available as over-the-counter (OTC) status preparations, underscoring their established safety profile for targeted local use.

Each preparation contains the active Clotrimazol within an inert base/vehicle, such as a lipophilic base for the cream or an aqueous base for the solution. This focus on topical preparation ensures that the drug achieves necessary therapeutic concentrations directly at the site of infection, which fundamentally distinguishes it from oral azole medications requiring systemic absorption.


Mechanism and Primary Therapeutic Purpose

The overall therapeutic purpose of this medicine is to achieve a significant fungicidal (fungus-killing) or fungistatic (growth-halting) effect on the target pathogen. This action is critical for limiting fungal viability and halting the spread of the infection. A typical use scenario involves the application of a Clotrimazol cream to soothe the discomfort associated with a localized superficial fungal infection.

The function of Clotrimazol is to structurally compromise the fungal cell by preventing the creation of key components necessary for the cell's physical stability. This metabolic interference prevents the proliferation of the fungus and causes a disruption of the cell structure, thereby fulfilling the general goal of the antimycotic agent: clearing the active infection and resolving the associated localized discomfort.

Regulatory References

  1. WHO Essential Medicines
  2. WHO Essential Medicines List

What side effects are possible with Antimicotico?

Possible side effects and safety information

The safety profile of Antimicotico (Clotrimazol) is predominantly defined by localized reactions at the site of application, reflecting its minimal systemic absorption following topical or vaginal use. Official regulatory documents classify adverse reactions primarily under Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders and General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions.


Adverse Reaction Classification

Classification Tier Examples of Documented Effects
Common Local burning sensation, stinging, skin irritation, redness (erythema), and discomfort or pain at the application site.
Frequency Not Known Serious allergic reactions (hypersensitivity, anaphylaxis, angioedema), blisters, peeling (exfoliation), pruritus (itching), and application site swelling (oedema).

Serious adverse reactions are specifically listed under Immune System Disorders. These include anaphylactic reactions—which may present with symptoms like syncope (fainting) or hypotension—and angioedema.


Safety Considerations and Limitations

Safety for pregnant and lactating individuals is based on the verified negligible systemic absorption of Clotrimazol, though use typically requires medical supervision. A primary safety constraint is the contraindication in patients with a known hypersensitivity to the active substance or any non-medicinal ingredient in the formulation.

Specific formulations used vaginally may damage latex contraceptives, potentially reducing their effectiveness. Furthermore, the product has been noted for its potential high-level safety consequence of possibly increasing the plasma levels of co-administered oral immunosuppressants, such as tacrolimus or sirolimus.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

The official regulatory profile for Antimicotico (Clotrimazol) overdose defines risks based primarily on the route of exposure and the potential for systemic effects.

Documented Overdose Risk and Manifestations

Acute overdosage resulting from the topical application of this medicine is formally documented as unlikely and is not expected to lead to a life-threatening situation.

The single critical scenario for systemic exposure is the accidental oral ingestion of the preparation. Symptoms documented in regulatory sources following ingestion may include:

  • Gastrointestinal disturbances (such as nausea and vomiting)
  • Dizziness
  • Potential for transient elevation of liver function tests

Required Emergency Actions

Scenario Mandated Action (Label-Derived)
Accidental Ingestion Seek immediate medical attention or call a Poison Control Center.
Overdose Management Management is strictly symptomatic and supportive, as no specific antidote is known.

Hospital monitoring may be required following significant oral ingestion to manage any resulting systemic effects. Immediate assessment by medical staff is essential upon accidental swallowing of the medication, as stated in authoritative prescribing information.

Therapeutic Uses of Antimicotico

What Antimicotico Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

This medicine is commonly used to help with conditions presenting with localized discomfort and inflammatory or irritative states caused by fungal pathogens.

It is considered relevant for easing symptoms that interfere with daily functioning across therapeutic domains where additional symptomatic support is needed. This primarily includes managing dermatomycoses like athlete's foot (Tinea Pedis), ringworm (Tinea Corporis), and jock itch (Tinea Cruris). It is also commonly used to help with yeast-driven conditions such as vulvovaginal candidiasis and cutaneous candidiasis in moist areas like skin folds.


The medication may assist with easing the pronounced symptoms related to physical discomfort—specifically the persistent itching (pruritus), the burning sensation, and the visible redness (erythema)—that often accompany these infections. Applying this medicine in scenarios where symptoms escalate temporarily contributes to improved comfort during symptomatic periods.

“This application may assist with maintaining functional stability when symptoms interfere with routine activities.”


Quick Fact: Symptomatic Support and Comfort

The treatment plays a role in managing the fungal element in localized, superficial contexts and may assist with maintaining functional stability and contributes to easing the overall symptom load during periods of heightened discomfort.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview of Clotrimazole Topical

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Scope

Populations for whom use is allowed (as stated in label): Populations for whom use is not recommended (if applicable):
* Adults within the general population for labeled superficial infections. * Children under 2 years of age for most standard topical forms.
* Pediatric patients ge 2 years for most topical forms. * Pregnancy (First Trimester); use only if clearly indicated.
* Older adults (Geriatric), with no specific dose adjustment required. * Treatment of deep infections like onychomycosis or scalp infections.

Contraindicated Populations and Restrictions

  • Contraindicated: The medicine must not be used by individuals with a known hypersensitivity to Clotrimazol or to any of the inactive ingredients (excipients) in the specific product formulation. This is an absolute prohibition stated in regulatory documents.

  • Pregnancy and Lactation Status: During pregnancy, use is restricted and generally considered acceptable with caution in the second and third trimesters, but not recommended during the first trimester. Use during lactation is also advised with caution as it is unknown if the drug is excreted in human milk after topical application.

  • Condition-Related Exclusions: The medicine is intended only for local, superficial treatment and is therefore not appropriate for systemic or deep-seated fungal infections. Topical use has no specific restrictions related to hepatic or renal impairment due to minimal systemic absorption.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

The official regulatory profile for Antimicotico (Clotrimazol) is structured around the negligible systemic absorption of the active ingredient following topical application. The dermal preparation is not documented to cause clinically significant systemic drug-drug interactions.

The primary constraints documented in official labeling concern the vaginal preparation and its interaction with certain devices and medicinal products. Co-administration is formally restricted for use with latex or rubber contraceptive devices, including condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps, as preparation components are documented to damage the material and impair device function.

Timing constraints also prohibit the concurrent use of the vaginal preparation with other vaginal products, such as tampons, douches, or spermicides, to prevent interference with therapeutic action.

Specific systemic drug-drug interactions are documented due to the measurable absorption from the vaginal route. Concurrent use with certain systemic immunosuppressants, specifically Tacrolimus and Sirolimus, may increase the serum concentrations of these medicines, a process rooted in the inhibition of the CYP3A4 enzyme system. Furthermore, official sources note a pharmacodynamic antagonism when co-administered with other topical antifungal agents, such as Nystatin and Amphotericin B, which can reduce the overall antifungal effect. No known interactions are documented with food or drinks.

Mechanism of Action

Blocking Ergosterol Production at the Molecular Level

The drug's primary action is the non-competitive inhibition of the fungal enzyme lanosterol 14alpha-demethylase (CYP51). This crucial step in the ergosterol synthesis pathway is immediately blocked, preventing the formation of the lipid required for fungal cell stability. This initial interference initiates the mechanistic cascade, demonstrating an effect on a distinct enzyme-mediated signaling domain.


Structural Damage and Loss of Cell Integrity

The chemical blockage causes two significant physiological effects: a lack of stabilizing ergosterol and a buildup of toxic lipid precursors called 14alpha-methylsterols. Their incorporation into the cell membrane severely compromises the membrane's structure, causing it to become porous and leaky. This resulting loss of osmotic integrity in the microbial system leads directly to the final physiological consequence: the rupture and fungicidal action on the fungal cell.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Antimicotico

This section details the administration guidelines for Clotrimazol (Antimicotico), focusing strictly on administration and dosing patterns.


Official Administration Protocol

The methods for administering this medicine are Topical (Dermal) and Local Intravaginal, specifically excluding systemic routes. The correct procedural use is defined by the following requirements:

Usage Aspect Official Administration Guideline
Dosing Schedule Topical Forms: Apply a thin layer to cover the affected skin area. Intravaginal Forms: Dosage is typically one 100 mg tablet daily for 6 days, or a single 500 mg tablet dose.
Frequency Topical: Applied twice daily (morning and night). Intravaginal: Generally administered once daily, typically before bedtime.
Preparation The application site must be cleaned and thoroughly dried before use of the topical forms. Intravaginal tablets are inserted as high as possible, often using an applicator.
Course Duration Use is short-term, requiring adherence to specific durations: 2 to 4 weeks for common dermal infections or 1 to 7 days for vaginal candidiasis. The full course must be completed.

Contextual Use Instructions

Topical preparations (cream, solution, powder) are strictly for external use only. No dose adjustments are typically detailed for older adults or patients with renal or hepatic impairment due to the drug's minimal systemic absorption. For children under 2 years of age, topical use requires professional guidance. If a dose is missed, it should be applied as soon as remembered, unless the time for the next scheduled dose is near, in which case the missed dose is skipped to prevent doubling the application.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Antimicotico (Clotrimazol)

This overview details the structure of clinical research for local and topical Clotrimazol, focusing on what study outcomes were measured and where research gaps remain. This information is intended for educational purposes only and does not provide clinical recommendations or treatment advice.


Evidence for Use in Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (Vaginal Yeast Infection)

Research exploring the use of Clotrimazol for vulvovaginal candidiasis relies mainly on Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). Studies monitored the Therapeutic Cure endpoint, which combines the assessment of patient-reported discomfort (Clinical Cure) and mycological status (fungus detectability). Trials explored different formulations and regimens in adult women, including symptomatic pregnant women.

Findings describe patterns observed in these studies related to changes in symptoms and fungal presence. However, evidence remains limited regarding long-term patterns, and research for non-albicans species is not as robust as for the most common causative fungus.


Evidence for Use in Dermatomycoses and Cutaneous Candidiasis (Skin Fungal Infections)

The research foundation rests on RCTs comparing the medicine to a vehicle or another active treatment. Studies evaluated the Complete Cure endpoint, which requires researchers to monitor both visible signs of inflammation (like redness/scaling) and the mycological status (absence of fungus) as measured by the laboratory. Research describes patterns observed in adults and children with common superficial infections. Comparative evidence is lacking for the full range of specific topical formulations, such as the powder form.


Research Gaps and Areas of Uncertainty

The majority of studies use limited follow-up durations, meaning long-term effects and the durability of outcomes are not fully established. Research is also limited in populations with complex underlying health conditions or those who are immunocompromised.

Evidence quality varies across studies, and findings describe group patterns, which do not predict whether an individual will respond similarly; study results reflect the specific conditions under which they were conducted.

Key Studies & References

  1. Clotrimazole (Topical and Vaginal): MedlinePlus Drug Information (NIH)
  2. Label: CLOTRIMAZOLE Cream, USP 1% (Representative FDA/DailyMed Monograph)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Antimicotico (FAQ)

Q: What is the main difference between Antimicotico tablets and the topical cream?

According to official product descriptions, the primary difference is the area of application. The tablet form is specifically designed for local use inside the vagina, typically to treat yeast infections. The cream form is designed for topical use on the skin surface to treat dermal fungal infections.

Q: Is liver function monitoring usually required for patients taking the oral form of Antimicotico?

The approved topical and vaginal forms of Antimicotico are documented to have minimal absorption into the bloodstream. Therefore, routine liver function monitoring is not generally needed for these local preparations. However, regulatory documents for certain related oral forms of clotrimazole advise liver function monitoring, particularly if a person has pre-existing liver impairment.

Q: What medications are officially contraindicated (not allowed) to be taken with Antimicotico?

The only formal contraindication (absolute prohibition) listed in official documents is a known allergy or hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or any non-medicinal components of the product. While certain other medicines are not strictly contraindicated, systemic immunosuppressants like Tacrolimus or Sirolimus carry a documented risk of increased blood levels when used concurrently with the vaginal form. Official sources note this interaction as a significant safety warning.

Q: Are there different storage requirements for the tablet form versus the liquid form of Antimicotico?

Official labeling requires all formulations—including creams, solutions, and vaginal tablets—to be stored at controlled room temperature (typically between 15 C and 30 C). Official guidelines describe the need to protect the product from excessive heat, freezing, and moisture to maintain its stability and effectiveness.

Q: What distinguishes Antimicotico from other azole antifungals, generally speaking?

Regulatory and scientific information indicates that this medicine is chiefly distinguished by its intended use for local, topical treatment of superficial infections. Because it has relatively poor systemic absorption into the bloodstream, it acts primarily where it is applied. This contrasts with other common azole antifungals which are formulated for oral use to treat more widespread or internal infections.

Q: Does Antimicotico pose a risk to patients with heart rhythm issues (QT prolongation)?

Due to the drug's formulation for local application, official documents confirm minimal systemic absorption into the body. Therefore, the active ingredient is not expected to reach the bloodstream concentrations typically associated with warnings like QTc interval prolongation (a heart rhythm concern). Regulatory labeling does not list this as a common or serious risk.

Q: Are headaches or dizziness commonly reported side effects of Antimicotico?

The most frequently reported adverse events are limited to the application site, such as localized burning, irritation, and itching. Systemic effects like headaches or dizziness are not listed as common side effects in official labeling for the topical and vaginal preparations. If systemic symptoms occur, they may be a rare sign of a serious allergic reaction.

Q: Does Antimicotico have known interactions with common over-the-counter pain relievers?

Official regulatory documents do not list any specific drug interactions between this medicine and common, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Interaction warnings are typically focused on a limited number of powerful systemic drugs and on localized products and devices that may be affected by the vaginal form.

Q: Are there any common supplements that are described as interacting with Antimicotico?

Official drug labels typically do not contain specific information regarding interactions with herbal remedies, vitamins, or dietary supplements. This lack of detailed data is because these products are usually not subject to the same rigorous testing requirements as prescription drugs.

Q: How quickly does Antimicotico begin to work against an infection?

The onset of therapeutic effect can depend on the type of infection being treated. Official patient information for vaginal use indicates that symptom relief is usually noticeable within the first three days of starting treatment. For dermal (skin) infections, specific time-to-relief is not precisely stated, but clinical improvement is expected to occur over the course of the prescribed two to four weeks.

Q: Are there known effects from stopping Antimicotico before the full course is completed?

Regulatory patient information emphasizes the importance of completing the full treatment time as prescribed, even if symptoms clear up quickly. Stopping the medicine prematurely may lead to the return of the infection (recurrence).

Q: Does Antimicotico have a specific boxed warning or alert from regulatory bodies?

Regulatory documents confirm that the single-ingredient formulation of Antimicotico (Clotrimazol) does not carry a specific Boxed Warning (the most serious FDA alert). A Boxed Warning is the strongest safety alert placed on a product label by regulatory bodies like the FDA.

Q: Is Antimicotico safe to use with topical steroid creams?

The official labeling for the single-ingredient product does not provide specific guidance on co-administering it with other single-ingredient topical steroid creams. However, regulatory agencies have approved a separate prescription combination product that contains both Clotrimazol and a topical steroid, which is used for certain inflammatory fungal infections.

How should Antimicotico be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Clotrimazol (Antimicotico)

Official regulatory labeling dictates strict conditions to preserve the stability of Clotrimazol topical products.


Storage Requirements

The medicine must be stored at controlled room temperature, typically 20 mathrmC to 25 mathrmC (68 mathrmF to 77 mathrmF). It is mandatory to keep the product in its original container, ensuring the lid is tightly closed when not in use. The medicine must be protected from excessive heat, moisture, and freezing. As a child-safety measure, all products must be stored out of the reach and sight of children.


Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired product must be disposed of according to local regulatory requirements, often utilizing a community drug take-back program. The product must not be disposed of via wastewater (sinks or toilets).

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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