Clothree

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Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

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 Clothree

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Clotrimazole (INN)
Form Cream, solution, powder, lozenge, vaginal tablet
Pharmacological class Azole Antifungal / Imidazole Class
Common use To combat infections caused by fungi (antimycotic action)
Origin Synthetic compound

Identity and Classification: What Type of Medicine is Clothree?

Clothree is the trade name for the active substance Clotrimazole (Clotrimazol), an International Nonproprietary Name (INN) widely utilized in human medicine. Clotrimazole is a synthetic compound classified as an azole antifungal agent, specifically belonging to the imidazole class of antimycotics. This classification is clinically recognized for targeting fungi; the drug is noted for its broad-spectrum capability and common availability as an over-the-counter (OTC) product for topical applications, distinguishing it from antifungals requiring prescription monitoring.

General Purpose and Mechanism Principle

The fundamental purpose of Clothree is to control and stop the growth of microscopic fungi by acting as a broad-spectrum antifungal agent. The active substance achieves this by initiating the inhibition of ergosterol synthesis, a process essential for the structural integrity of the fungal cell membrane. This targeted action compromises the fungal cell wall, leading to a breakdown of the organisms. This mechanism renders the drug both fungistatic (slowing multiplication) and fungicidal (directly destroying the organisms), fulfilling the general purpose of reducing the fungal load.

Diverse Physical Forms and Routes of Administration

The versatility of Clotrimazole is evidenced by its multiple pharmaceutical preparations designed for localized delivery, minimizing systemic absorption. Common dosage forms include cream, solution, and powder for external topical administration to the skin. To address various sites of infection, specialized forms such as vaginal tablets and oral lozenges (troches) are also available, facilitating intravaginal or transmucosal delivery. This variety of forms ensures the active ingredient can be concentrated directly where the fungal proliferation occurs.

What side effects are possible with Clothree?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Regulatory documentation for Clotrimazole (Clothree) organizes safety information according to the frequency and nature of the documented adverse events. The medicine’s safety profile is primarily characterized by effects concerning the Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders and General disorders and administration site conditions.

Adverse events classified as Common often involve local, application-site reactions. These include a burning sensation, stinging, irritation, redness (erythema), and pruritus (itching). These local effects are typically described in official labels as transient, meaning they are short-lived and may occur after application.

Serious and Systemic Safety Profile

While most reported effects are localized, official regulatory documents list rare, systemic reactions associated with severe hypersensitivity, often classified as frequency Not Known. These include serious adverse reactions such as anaphylactic reaction, angioedema (swelling of the face or throat), syncope (fainting), and hypotension (low blood pressure). The medicine is formally contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to clotrimazole or any other component in the product.

Population-Specific Considerations

Specific safety statements exist for vulnerable populations. Use during the first trimester of pregnancy is generally not recommended unless the treating professional deems it medically necessary. For lactating individuals, caution is advised as it is not confirmed whether the drug is excreted in human milk, though systemic absorption is minimal with topical use. Additionally, regulatory text notes that certain formulations may damage latex contraceptive devices.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The official regulatory profile for Clotrimazole (Clothree) is primarily concerned with the risk of accidental oral ingestion. Overdosage from the intended topical or vaginal application is assessed in regulatory documents as unlikely to lead to a life-threatening situation due to the minimal systemic absorption of the active substance.

Documented Manifestations

Following accidental swallowing of the formulated product, clinical symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and vomiting are the primary manifestations noted in official labeling. These are the expected signs of toxicity in the central nervous system and gastrointestinal tract.

Required Emergency Actions

Regulators mandate specific actions in cases of accidental ingestion. Individuals must seek professional assistance and contact a Poison Control Center right away. Urgent medical help is formally required when the product is swallowed.

Overdose Management

Management is described as symptomatic and supportive. Official documents state that no specific antidote is known for a Clotrimazole overdose. In symptomatic cases following ingestion, gastric lavage may be considered, but only if clear clinical symptoms are apparent and provided the patient's airway can be protected adequately. No population-specific overdose considerations are detailed in official labeling.

Therapeutic Uses of Clothree

What Clothree Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

This medication is commonly used across therapeutic domains where additional symptomatic support is needed due to fungal proliferation. It is generally applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns, offering targeted relief.

Clothree is relevant for easing symptoms related to physical discomfort in affected areas. It is commonly used to help address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive in conditions such as athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), ringworm (tinea corporis), jock itch (tinea cruris), and yeast infections (candidiasis) of the skin, vagina, or mouth. This provides supportive therapeutic benefit and may help patients cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations, particularly those associated with persistent itching, burning, and redness.

“The application is considered relevant for managing symptoms that interfere with daily comfort.”


Quick Fact: Relief for Localized Discomfort

Symptom Type Example Manifestation Benefit
Dermal Discomfort Persistent itching and burning Contributes to improved comfort during symptomatic periods.
Inflammatory Signs Redness, peeling, and irritation Assists with maintaining functional stability.
Mucosal Distress Soreness, discharge, or lesions Provides supportive relief when symptoms interfere with routine activities.

Regulatory References

  1. NCBI StatPearls on Clotrimazole

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Absolute Contraindications

Use of Clothree (Clotrimazole) is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to the active substance, any other azole antifungal agents, or any excipients present in the specific formulation. Furthermore, certain specialized forms have additional restrictions, such as the otic solution being not recommended for use in patients with a perforated tympanic membrane.


Age and Conditional Restrictions

Age Group or Condition Official Regulatory Status
Infants under 2 years Not for use unless directed by a doctor.
Children under 12/16 years Use of certain vaginal preparations is prohibited or not recommended.
First Trimester Pregnancy Should be used only if clearly indicated, as well-controlled human studies are lacking.
Recurrent Infections Over-the-counter use is restricted for patients with frequently recurring vaginal infections, who must seek medical consultation.

Organ Function and Special Use

Due to minimal systemic absorption, the widely used topical and vaginal forms generally have no restrictions based on renal impairment. However, periodic assessment of hepatic function is advisable for patients with pre-existing liver impairment when utilizing the oral lozenge form.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Regulatory documents define specific interaction constraints for Clothree, particularly when the active ingredient, clotrimazole, has limited systemic absorption from topical or vaginal formulations.

Pharmacokinetic and Systemic Interactions

Co-administration of the vaginal formulation with certain oral immunosuppressive agents, specifically Tacrolimus and Sirolimus, may increase the plasma concentration of these medicines. This is officially classified as a pharmacokinetic interaction requiring close patient monitoring for potential toxicity. Additionally, the oral lozenge formulation, which has greater systemic exposure, necessitates the monitoring of liver function tests in patients with officially documented hepatic impairment.

Local Restrictions and Substance Interactions

Certain co-administrations are restricted due to local effects or product interference:

  • Latex Contraceptives: The use of the vaginal formulation with latex-containing barrier contraceptives (such as condoms, diaphragms, or cervical caps) is restricted. Regulatory data indicate components in the product may cause damage to the latex material, leading to a reduction in the contraceptive device's effectiveness. Alternative methods must be utilized during treatment and for a period of at least five days following treatment completion.
  • Local Products: Simultaneous use of tampons, douches, or spermicides is officially advised against to prevent interference with the intended therapeutic action of the medication.
  • Other Antifungals: Clotrimazole may reduce the effectiveness of co-applied Polyene antibiotics, a documented pharmacodynamic interaction.

Mechanism of Action

Ontology: How Clothree Works

The mechanism of action for Clothree (Clotrimazole) is primarily focused on disrupting the structure and function of the target cells through a specific enzymatic blockade.


Blocking the Cell's Structural Foundation

Clothree acts as a noncompetitive inhibitor of the enzyme lanosterol 14alpha-demethylase (L 14alpha-DM), a crucial component of the cell's specialized sterol production pathway. By blocking this enzyme, the cell cannot properly synthesize ergosterol, the key structural component of its outer membrane. This depletion of ergosterol and simultaneous accumulation of toxic, incomplete sterols fundamentally compromises the cell's physical barrier, causing the vital contents to leak out and inducing a destabilization of cellular structure.


Triggering Toxic Cellular Collapse

The structural failure initiates a cascade of metabolic stress and cellular toxicity. The misplaced toxic sterols disrupt membrane-embedded ion channels and enzyme systems, including those responsible for energy production and regulating the concentration gradient of ions like potassium and calcium. This internal disarray forces the affected cells into a high degree of cellular dysfunction, inducing programmed cell death (apoptosis). This process provides the direct physiological mechanism of action.

Dosage and Administration Information

The administration of Clothree (Clotrimazole) is defined by its specific dosage form, utilizing three primary official routes: topical for external skin application (creams, solutions), intravaginal for mucosal application (tablets, creams), and transmucosal for oral cavity use (lozenges).


Official Administration Protocols

Administration follows strict, labeled regimens. The topical 1% formulations are typically administered twice daily, applied as a thin layer to the affected area and the surrounding skin. Treatment duration is a fixed course, often lasting two to four weeks, depending on the type of cutaneous infection.

For intravaginal use, regimens vary by strength, encompassing options such as a single 500 mg tablet, 200 mg once daily for 3 days, or 100 mg once daily for 7 days. These forms are generally administered once daily at bedtime and require insertion as high as possible. Use is often advised not to begin during the menstrual period.


The 10 mg oral lozenge for oropharyngeal use requires dissolution slowly in the mouth five times per day for a 14-day course of treatment. The lozenge must not be chewed or swallowed whole. Topical use is indicated for children two years of age and older, and lozenge use is for children three years of age and older. If a scheduled dose is missed, it should be applied as soon as possible, but double dosing must be avoided to maintain the regimen.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Clothree: Recent Clinical Evidence


Evidence for Common Fungal Infections

The evidence base for topical Clotrimazole use, including for common skin conditions (dermatophytoses) and vaginal yeast infections (VVC), consists of many Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews. Researchers tracked outcomes related to physical discomfort and conditions with fluctuating symptoms. Studies monitored clinical endpoints such as the resolution of signs and mycological clearance (lab-confirmed absence of fungus). Comparative research across these indications explored whether various regimens described similar patterns in measured outcomes against inactive controls and other antifungal agents. Findings were mixed across some systematic reviews when comparing Clotrimazole's class against certain alternatives, while other evidence described similar patterns.


Evidence in Specific Populations and Settings

Research explored outcomes for specific groups like symptomatic pregnant individuals with VVC, where studies monitored patterns associated with prolonged treatment regimens. Findings were tracked and reported across these specific trials. For fungal infections of the mouth (Oropharyngeal Candidiasis or OPC), comparative studies examined outcomes in cohorts including immunocompromised patients, tracking the rate of clinical response and mycological clearance against systemic therapies. The majority of RCTs for all indications focus on short-term outcomes, with limited long-term follow-up beyond a few weeks after treatment ends.


Research Gaps and Uncertainty

Research highlights several areas of uncertainty across the body of evidence. Key limitations include inconsistent outcome measures across older trials and a high risk of bias noted in certain studies, limiting the certainty of some findings. Data are limited for infections caused by non-albicans species of Candida and for long-term recurrence rates. Additionally, the body of evidence exhibits variability across studies, and comparative evidence concerning drug resistance patterns in specific subgroups remains an area of ongoing research.

Key Studies & References

  1. Clotrimazole - StatPearls (Comprehensive Review of Indications, Special Populations, and Mechanisms)
  2. Comparison of oral fluconazole and clotrimazole troches as treatment for oral candidiasis in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (OPC in Immunocompromised)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Clothree (FAQ)

Q: How quickly does Clothree typically begin to show an effect?

A: According to official product information for the vaginal tablet formulation, individuals typically start to experience relief from symptoms such as itching within approximately three days of beginning the use of the medication. If no improvement is noticed after three days, consultation with a healthcare provider is generally recommended.

Q: What happens if I miss a scheduled time to use Clothree?

A: Official guidance regarding missed applications for topical preparations advises that the dose is typically applied as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is nearly time for the next scheduled application, the missed dose should be skipped entirely, and the person should return to their regular schedule. Regulatory documents state that double applications must be avoided.

Q: How long is Clothree generally intended to be used for?

A: Clothree is consistently described for a fixed, short-term course, not for prolonged use. Official directions specify treatment durations, such as two to four weeks for various topical infections. Use for periods longer than the stated course is generally advised against without professional oversight.

Q: Can people with liver or kidney issues use Clothree?

A: The oral lozenge formulation, which has greater systemic exposure, requires official monitoring of liver function for individuals with existing hepatic (liver) impairment. The widely used topical and vaginal forms are not generally restricted by kidney or liver issues due to minimal systemic absorption. However, frequently recurring vaginal infections may suggest an underlying serious medical cause, like a weakened immune system or diabetes, for which a healthcare provider should be consulted.

Q: Does Clothree interact with alcohol?

A: Official drug labels generally do not list a specific interaction between topical Clothree and alcohol. However, when the oral lozenge form is co-administered with certain other systemic medicines that can affect the liver, there may be specific restrictions on alcohol intake.

Q: What evidence exists to support the use of Clothree?

A: Regulatory information indicates that evidence supports the product's use for curing most common fungal infections, including vaginal yeast infections, athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm. The medicine is determined to be suitable and indicated for its recommended uses, as described in the official labeling.

Q: Does the food I eat impact how Clothree works?

A: Official drug information for the most common topical forms does not indicate that general food or diet impacts how the medicine works. However, Official administration instructions state the lozenge must not be chewed or swallowed whole, which is intended to ensure proper localized action.

Q: Is the onset of effect for Clothree the same for everyone?

A: While the labeling for the vaginal tablet states that symptomatic relief usually begins within three days, it also advises seeking advice if there is no improvement after this time. This information indicates that the time until a person notices relief can vary, and seeking advice is recommended if symptoms do not improve.

Q: Is Clothree available over the counter, or do I need a prescription?

A: Official regulatory descriptions confirm that topical preparations of Clothree, such as creams and solutions, are frequently available for purchase over-the-counter (OTC) without a prescription. Specific formulations or uses may require a prescription.

Q: Does Clothree cause drowsiness or affect my ability to drive?

A: The typical side effects listed in official information for Clothree are localized and non-systemic. The product is not generally known to cause drowsiness. However, very rare and serious allergic reactions can include systemic effects like sudden dizziness or fainting, for which medical help should be sought immediately.

Q: Can Clothree be taken by people who have diabetes?

A: Official drug warnings for the vaginal formulation advise that consultation with a healthcare professional is necessary before use if an individual has frequently recurring vaginal yeast infections. This is because repeated infections may be a sign of a more serious underlying medical cause, such as diabetes or a weakened immune system.

Q: Are there any specific foods or drinks that should be avoided while using Clothree?

A: Specific food interactions are generally not listed in the official labels for Clothree. As with all medications, it is always advised to consult the product-specific label, particularly if using the oral lozenge form, which has different administration requirements.

Q: Is there a generic version of Clothree available?

A: Yes, the active ingredient in Clothree, clotrimazole, is an International Nonproprietary Name (INN) and is widely available under various brand names, as well as in generic formulations, which is a common practice confirmed by regulatory approval documents.

Q: Is Clothree described as a long-term or short-term treatment?

A: Clothree is consistently described in official documents as a short-term treatment. It is intended for fixed courses to address acute fungal infections, such as a one- to seven-day regimen for vaginal use or a two- to four-week regimen for topical use. It should not be used for prolonged periods beyond the stated course.

Q: Do older adults typically need a different approach when using Clothree?

A: Official information for the topical formulation indicates that no specific problems or side effects are expected in older adults that are different from those seen in younger adults. Use in the geriatric population is generally not associated with different safety concerns compared to other age groups.

Q: What does official information say about the safety profile of Clothree?

A: The official safety profile is mainly characterized by local and temporary adverse effects at the application site, such as mild burning, irritation, and itching. More serious, systemic adverse reactions related to rare hypersensitivity, such as swelling of the throat or fainting, are also officially listed.

Q: Is the safety data for Clothree consistent across different populations?

A: Official information for the topical form suggests that the medicine has not been shown to cause different side effects or problems in children compared to adults when used at effective doses. Similar expectations for consistency are generally noted for the elderly population.

Q: Are there any warnings about stopping Clothree suddenly?

A: Official labeling states that the medication is intended to be used for the full, prescribed course, even if symptoms begin to improve or disappear before the course is finished. The guidance is to complete the full course as directed, and the medicine should not be discontinued unless a healthcare professional advises it.

Q: What information is available about using Clothree in children?

A: Topical use of Clothree is generally not recommended for children under two years of age unless specifically advised by a doctor. Regulatory data indicates that the medicine has been tested in children and is not expected to cause different side effects or problems than in adults.

Q: Are there specific times of day that official documents mention for using Clothree?

A: Yes, official administration guidelines mention specific times. For topical creams, use is often described as twice daily (typically morning and night). For vaginal tablets, official instructions state the medicine is generally administered once daily at bedtime.

Q: Is Clothree considered a controlled substance?

A: No. Official regulatory classification documents confirm that the active substance in Clothree is not scheduled by the DEA and is classified as a Human Over-The-Counter (OTC) drug.

Q: What kind of patient monitoring might be necessary while using Clothree?

A: For patients using the oral lozenge formulation who have pre-existing liver impairment, periodic assessment of liver function is generally advised. General monitoring for all formulations involves checking the application area for signs of increased irritation or sensitivity and noting if symptoms fail to improve during the treatment course.

Q: Are there any known contraindications for Clothree besides specific medical conditions?

A: Yes, regulatory documents list local use restrictions. For the vaginal formulation, official guidance advises against the simultaneous use of other local products, such as tampons, douches, spermicides, or other vaginal products, as they may interfere with the intended therapeutic action of the medication.

Q: What are the key findings from the clinical trials for Clothree?

A: Clinical trial evidence confirms that the medicine is suitable and indicated for its approved uses when used as directed in the official labeling. The key findings demonstrate the drug's ability to cure most common fungal infections, which is the basis for its regulatory approval.

Q: Why might a person be ineligible to use Clothree?

A: Ineligibility is often based on age restrictions (e.g., being under two years old for topical use), having a known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug or its components, or having an underlying serious medical cause for symptoms, such as an immune system issue.

Q: What are the general expectations for benefits when using Clothree?

A: General expectations of benefit include the full resolution of the fungal infection and relief from associated symptoms. This involves curing most common fungal infections and reducing symptoms like itching, burning, cracking, and general discomfort.

Q: How is the safety of Clothree monitored after it's approved?

A: Post-approval safety monitoring involves tracking and advising patients to notify a healthcare professional if they notice signs of increased irritation at the application site, which may suggest sensitivity. It is also monitored by checking if symptoms fail to improve after the full treatment course is completed.

Q: What is the recommended approach if I experience a mild side effect from Clothree?

A: Official regulatory guidance states that if irritation or sensitivity at the application site develops or significantly worsens, use of the medication is typically discontinued. The official guidance is that appropriate alternative therapy should then be instituted.

Q: Is there a possibility of becoming dependent on Clothree?

A: Official regulatory documents, such as those for the oral lozenge formulation, explicitly state that there is no data available concerning drug abuse or dependence for Clothree.

How should Clothree be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage and Disposal Requirements

Storage conditions for Clotrimazole are explicitly detailed in regulatory documents to ensure the product's integrity. The medication must be kept at controlled room temperature, typically between 20 to 25C (68 to 77F), and should not be frozen.


Handling and Protection

The product must be stored in its original container and kept tightly closed to protect it from excessive heat, light, and moisture; therefore, storage in environments like the bathroom is prohibited. Certain liquid formulations may have an in-use stability period, such as six months after opening, and must be discarded after the expiration date.


Disposal and Child Safety

All forms of Clotrimazole must be kept out of the sight and reach of children.

Regarding disposal, expired or unused medicine should not be placed in household trash or poured into wastewater unless specifically instructed. Used applicators, if supplied, must be properly discarded and not flushed down the toilet.

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

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