Gilt

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

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 Gilt

Property Description
Active Ingredient Clotrimazol
Pharmacological Class Azole Antifungal / Imidazole Derivative
Forms Cream, Solution, Lotion, Vaginal Tablet (Pessary), Lozenge
Common Use Targeting superficial fungal infections
Origin Synthetic organic compound

Classification and Identity

Gilt is the trade designation for medicinal preparations containing the active substance Clotrimazol, which is classified as a synthetic azole antifungal agent. Clotrimazol is a key member of the imidazole derivative group, defining it as a highly specific medicine engineered to combat the organisms responsible for mycotic infections. This compound is synthesized in a laboratory, confirming its identity as a small-molecule, synthetic organic compound, which distinguishes it from medicines derived directly from natural sources. As a broad-spectrum antimycotic agent, its foundational purpose is the targeting of a wide array of fungal pathogens.

Composition, Forms, and General Therapeutic Purpose

The fundamental composition of Gilt involves Clotrimazol as the sole, or primary, active ingredient, which is then formulated within various pharmaceutical bases. Unlike some combination products, Gilt typically presents Clotrimazol as a single agent, focusing on pure antifungal action. Due to its intended use against superficial infections, the medicine is available in multiple dosage forms, including topical cream, solution, and lotion for dermal application, as well as vaginal tablets (pessaries) and creams, and sometimes oromucosal lozenges. The availability across these varied dosage forms allows the drug to be delivered precisely via the topical, vaginal, or oromucosal routes of administration. Clotrimazol is indicated for the management of specific common fungal infections. The overarching therapeutic purpose of Gilt is to control and resolve the infection by restoring the local biological environment and alleviating the physical discomfort associated with fungal overgrowth.

Regulatory References

  1. Clotrimazole Cream FDA Label/Monograph

What side effects are possible with Gilt?

Adverse reactions for Gilt (Clotrimazol) are documented primarily as localized effects at the site of application, reflecting its minimal absorption into the body. The majority of reactions identified during post-marketing surveillance are officially classified as Not Known, as data do not permit a reliable estimate of occurrence frequency.


Adverse Reactions and System-Organ Classification

Side effects are categorized by regulatory authorities into specific System-Organ Classes (SOCs):

  • Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders and General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions include the most common documented local effects, such as pruritus (itching), erythema (redness), localized pain, stinging or burning sensations, blistering, and skin exfoliation.
  • Immune System, Vascular, and Respiratory Disorders list the potential for rare, serious adverse reactions. These systemic events include anaphylactic reaction, hypersensitivity, angioedema, syncope (fainting), hypotension (low blood pressure), and dyspnoea (difficulty breathing).

Population-Specific Safety and Limitations

Official labeling contains specific safety considerations for patient groups and constraints on use:

  • Pregnancy: Use should be avoided during the first trimester as a precaution. Subsequent use requires supervision by a healthcare professional.
  • Lactation: Use is generally permitted due to the minimal systemic absorption of the active substance.
  • Safety Restriction: Application of the medicine to the genital area may reduce the effectiveness of latex contraceptives such as condoms and diaphragms, a critical non-therapeutic safety note. Hypersensitivity to Clotrimazol or any inactive ingredients is a contraindication.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

Regulatory information for Gilt (Clotrimazol) classifies the risk of acute systemic intoxication as unlikely following a single dermal application of an overdose. The established overdose context is almost exclusively tied to accidental oral ingestion of the drug’s pharmaceutical forms. Clinical manifestations documented after ingestion primarily affect the gastrointestinal and nervous systems. These documented overdose presentations may include symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, abdominal pain, and shaking. Potential systemic findings, such as abnormal liver function tests, have also been associated with oral exposure.

The severity of a potential overdose is constrained by the low risk profile for topical use, but regulators advise heightened concern when a life-threatening amount has been ingested. Official emergency guidance is strict: individuals must immediately seek emergency medical attention or contact a Poison Control center if an overdose is suspected or if clinical symptoms become apparent.

Official statements confirm that no specific antidote is known for Clotrimazol overdose. Consequently, the mandated management is symptomatic and supportive treatment. Procedural interventions, such as gastric lavage, are documented as rarely needed and should only be considered under the specific condition of suspected ingestion of a substantial amount or the development of clinical symptoms. No specific population-based differences in overdose severity are documented in the official labeling.

Therapeutic Uses of Gilt

What Gilt Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Gilt is commonly used across several therapeutic domains to help with symptomatic relief and is applied in addressing surface-level infections caused by sensitive fungal organisms. Its applications focus on easing pronounced symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain and interference with daily comfort.

Treatment of Common Skin Fungal Rashes

Gilt is generally used for managing symptomatic episodes of superficial skin infections known as dermatomycoses. Specific conditions it is relevant for easing include Tinea pedis (Athlete's foot), Tinea cruris (Jock itch), Tinea corporis (Ringworm), and tinea versicolor. This helps address the distressing cluster of symptoms characterized by intense itching, localized burning, redness, and scaling, contributing to supportive therapeutic benefit that helps ease the overall symptom burden. The active substance is also utilized for yeast infections of the skin.

Management of Localized Yeast Infections and Support

The medication is relevant in conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms of yeast infections, or Candidiasis, across different areas, notably the skin folds, the vulvovaginal area, and the oral mucous membranes. It is also commonly used when supportive symptom management is appropriate, such as helping to address fungal manifestations in nappy rash or as a preventative measure against oral candidiasis in specific immunocompromised patients. In these situations, the medication may assist with managing symptoms and contributes to easing distress that supports patients during difficult episodes or temporary functional strain.


Quick Fact: Relief for Itching and Burning Gilt is commonly used to help with symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states caused by fungal growth, and may assist with easing intense pruritus (itching) and localized burning sensations.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

The eligibility profile for Gilt (Clotrimazol) is determined by official regulatory documentation, restricting use based on patient status, age, and specific infection sites.

Contraindicated Populations Restriction/Conditional Use Age-Related Eligibility
Individuals with known hypersensitivity to Clotrimazol, other azole antifungals, or any component of the specific formulation are absolutely contraindicated from use. Pregnancy: Use in the first trimester is restricted and must be physician-directed. Second and third-trimester use is generally established under medical guidance. Children under 2 years of age must not use over-the-counter topical forms unless advised by a doctor. Use is otherwise established for children 2 years and older.

Condition-Specific Limitations:

The topical forms of Gilt are not effective and must not be used for infections of the scalp or for onychomycosis (fungal nail infections). Use is confined to superficial skin and mucosal sites where efficacy is established. Additionally, caution is officially warranted for forms with potential systemic absorption, such as oral lozenges, in patients with a history of abnormal liver function tests. During lactation, the medicine is permitted with caution, provided it is not applied directly to the breast area. Intravaginal formulations may also compromise the integrity of certain non-barrier contraceptive devices.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Official regulatory information for Gilt (Clotrimazol) details distinct interaction profiles based on the product formulation. Interactions related to the oral lozenge form primarily involve pharmacokinetic changes due to enzyme inhibition (CYP3A), which can lead to increased plasma concentrations of co-administered medicines.

Documented Exposure-Altering Interactions

Formulation Interacting Substance Categories Official Interaction Outcome
Oral Lozenge Immunosuppressants (e.g., Everolimus, Midazolam, Tacrolimus) Alters pharmacokinetics, potentially increasing drug exposure.
Vaginal Oral Immunosuppressants (e.g., Sirolimus, Tacrolimus) May cause a rise in the co-administered drug’s plasma concentration.

Local and Timing-Based Restrictions

Regulatory documents impose specific restrictions for the vaginal product due to physical incompatibility. Use with latex contraceptives (condoms, diaphragms) is restricted as the excipients may cause physical damage, reducing their effectiveness. Official timing rules mandate that alternative precautions must be used for at least five days following the completion of vaginal treatment. Furthermore, official labeling advises against the concurrent use of tampons, douches, and spermicides during treatment.

Pharmacodynamic antagonism is also documented, where co-administration with other topical antifungal agents or high concentrations of Dexamethasone may reduce the antifungal activity of the medicines. Patients with Hepatic Impairment using the oral form require periodic monitoring of liver function tests.

Mechanism of Action

Targeting the Fungal Ergosterol Synthesis Pathway

The mechanism of action centers on the specific inhibition of lanosterol 14alpha-demethylase (CYP51), a critical fungal enzyme required for membrane formation. Clotrimazol, as an imidazole derivative, acts as a non-competitive inhibitor, binding to the heme iron of the enzyme. This molecular interaction blocks the synthesis of ergosterol, the primary sterol essential for fungal cell membrane integrity, initiating a specific metabolic cascade.

Fungal Cell Membrane Destabilization and Loss of Viability

The resulting depletion of ergosterol, combined with the incorporation of toxic precursor sterols, physically destabilizes the fungal cell membrane. This functional breakdown increases the membrane's permeability, leading to the leakage of intracellular components essential for viability and the impairment of key membrane-bound enzyme systems. This selective molecular damage produces functional impairment and loss of viability in the fungal cell, resulting in either fungicidal or fungistatic action. This targeted collapse of fungal cellular structure constitutes the final mechanistic consequence of the pharmacodynamic action on the organism.

Dosage and Administration Information

Gilt, which contains the active substance Clotrimazol, is administered via three primary routes defined by its dosage form: topical (dermal), intravaginal, and transmucosal (oral lozenge). Clinical protocols outline the standard form, frequency, and duration for its use.

Administration by Route

For most skin infections, the topical 1% preparation (cream, solution, or lotion) is applied by gently rubbing a sufficient quantity onto the affected area and the surrounding skin twice daily. The required duration of use ranges from two to eight weeks, with up to eight weeks necessary for conditions like Tinea pedis to complete the full treatment course.

The intravaginal administration uses 1% or 2% creams or tablets (pessaries) with strengths ranging from 100 mg to 500 mg. Dosing schedules vary from a single application of 500 mg to a seven-consecutive-day course using lower strengths, with application scheduled once daily at bedtime.

Procedural and Age Constraints

The 10 mg lozenge, used for transmucosal purposes, is administered three to five times a day. This form involves a specific technique: the lozenge is placed in the mouth and allowed to dissolve slowly over approximately 30 minutes; it is not to be chewed, crushed, or swallowed whole. Treatment for oral candidiasis is typically a 14-consecutive-day course.

Pediatric use for both topical and lozenge forms follows the same dosing as adults, but is generally restricted to patients 3 years of age and older.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Gilt


Evidence for Use in Common Skin Fungal Rashes (Dermatomycoses)

The research base for Gilt's use in superficial skin infections, such as ringworm, jock itch, and athlete’s foot, primarily involves short-term Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and subsequent Systematic Reviews. These studies included adults, adolescents, and children diagnosed with Tinea infections. Researchers focused on two main outcomes for evaluation: Mycological Cure, which is the laboratory confirmation of fungal status, and Clinical Improvement, which monitors visible signs like scaling, redness, along with patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort.

Studies explored the use of Gilt during periods of increased symptom activity and explored the measured differences against placebo or other agents. The findings describe patterns observed in the studies, where measurements of fungal clearance were reported alongside how symptoms evolved during the study period. However, the existing research provides limited information for long-term outcomes, meaning that data for the period after the medicine is stopped are not fully established.


Evidence for Use in Vaginal and Mucosal Yeast Infections (Candidiasis)

Gilt was evaluated in numerous RCTs and Meta-analyses for conditions characterized by fluctuating or episodic manifestations of Candidiasis, including vaginal yeast infections. Research examined the rate of Mycological Eradication—meaning the yeast was no longer detectable—and the resolution status of localized symptoms such as irritation and discharge. Comparative studies explored the measured outcomes when Gilt was used versus other treatments or inactive substances.

Data show patterns related to fungal clearance for candidiasis affecting the oral cavity or skin folds, though findings were mixed due to the varying anatomical sites and patient statuses involved. Data for certain high-risk groups, particularly in the oral cavity, remains insufficient for long-term functional outcomes in recurrent cases.


What Research Gaps and Uncertainties Remain

A consistent research limitation is the absence of comprehensive data on long-term outcomes and post-treatment recurrence rates across all indications. Follow-up durations were often limited, meaning there is limited information for the long-term outcomes. Furthermore, comparative evidence for certain formulations is sometimes lacking, and subgroup findings for specific, less common populations are uncertain.

Key Studies & References

  1. Label: CLOTRIMAZOLE cream (Topical Antifungal) - DailyMed

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Gilt (FAQ)

Q: How long does it typically take for Gilt to start working?

A: According to official patient information, localized symptoms such as itching or soreness are commonly reported to start improving within a few days of beginning the treatment. However, the complete clearance of visible signs, like redness or scaling, may require the full treatment duration defined for the product formulation.

Q: What happens if I stop taking Gilt suddenly?

A: Regulatory documents emphasize the importance of completing the required duration for Gilt treatment. Official sources generally advise against stopping use early, even if symptoms have improved, as this carries a risk of the infection returning.

Q: Does Gilt cause long-term side effects?

A: Official research summaries and overviews consistently indicate that data concerning the long-term outcomes of Gilt use, including post-treatment recurrence rates, are currently limited. Information for Gilt is often collected during short-term trials, consistent with its indicated use.

Q: Is it normal to feel tired when first starting Gilt?

A: The official list of commonly documented local adverse reactions for Gilt does not typically include tiredness or fatigue. While rare, serious systemic reactions listed in regulatory documents (such as syncope, or fainting) can involve sudden weakness, but they are not considered typical effects.

Q: Can Gilt interact with common pain relievers like Tylenol or Advil?

A: Official regulatory warnings for Gilt primarily focus on its potential to interact with certain immunosuppressant medications (due to pharmacokinetic changes) and the risk of reducing the effectiveness of latex contraceptives. Common over-the-counter pain relievers are not generally listed among the documented interactions for Gilt.

Q: Can Gilt be used by people with a history of heart problems?

A: A general history of heart problems is not listed as an absolute contraindication for the use of Gilt in official documents. However, rare systemic adverse reactions, such as low blood pressure (hypotension) and fainting (syncope), are documented as possible but rare occurrences.

Q: What does the latest research say about the long-term use of Gilt?

A: Official research overviews consistently note a limitation in the existing evidence: there is an absence of comprehensive data on long-term outcomes and post-treatment recurrence rates across all indications. This points to limitations in available long-term data.

Q: Are there any specific groups of people who should avoid Gilt entirely?

A: Absolute contraindications for Gilt, according to regulatory documents, include individuals with known hypersensitivity to the active substance (Clotrimazol), other azole antifungals, or any non-active component of the specific formulation.

Q: Is Gilt linked to any risk of liver or kidney problems?

A: Official labeling advises that individuals with a history of abnormal liver function tests using the oral lozenge form may require periodic monitoring of liver function. Official warnings and precautions do not mention specific concerns related to kidney problems.

Q: What should I do if I think Gilt is causing a side effect?

A: In the event of a suspected adverse reaction, regulatory authorities advise patients to report the effect through official channels to their country's drug regulatory agency (e.g., FDA, EMA) or their healthcare provider. This process helps monitor the safety of the medicine.

Q: Can Gilt affect blood pressure?

A: A potential rare, serious adverse reaction listed in official documents is hypotension, which means low blood pressure. This reaction is categorized under systemic disorders, but is not a common side effect.

Q: Do I need a prescription from a doctor to get Gilt?

A: The prescription status of Gilt varies by the specific product form and region. Topical forms (creams, solutions) are often available over-the-counter (OTC). In contrast, the oral lozenge form is typically restricted to prescription-only use in many areas.

Q: Are there any specific lifestyle changes recommended alongside taking Gilt?

A: Official instructions specify physical restrictions when using the vaginal form of Gilt. These include avoiding the use of latex contraceptives (condoms, diaphragms), tampons, douches, and spermicides during the treatment period to prevent potential damage or reduced effectiveness.

Q: Does Gilt affect fertility or reproductive health?

A: Official medical sources, including regulatory patient information, state that there is no evidence that the use of Gilt affects fertility in either men or women.

Q: Is Gilt considered a controlled substance?

A: Gilt, which contains the active substance Clotrimazol, is classified as an antifungal medication. It is not listed as a controlled substance by major international regulatory authorities.

Q: Are there any known issues with Gilt and driving?

A: Rare systemic reactions are listed in official documents, such as syncope (fainting) or hypotension (low blood pressure), that may temporarily affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, due to minimal systemic absorption, these forms are generally not expected to be associated with driving risk.

Q: What is the risk of dependence or addiction with Gilt?

A: Regulatory documents for Gilt do not include any warnings or information concerning the potential for dependence or addiction with its use.

Q: Can Gilt be used by adolescents or children?

A: Official documentation states that use of Gilt is generally established for children 3 years of age and older for the lozenge form, and for children 2 years of age and older for the topical forms. Dosing is often the same as for adults in these age groups.

Q: Do studies suggest Gilt is suitable for all genders?

A: The research base for Gilt's use and safety profile typically includes studies covering both genders (adults, adolescents, and children) across various fungal indications, supporting its general suitability.

Q: Is there a maximum time someone can stay on Gilt?

A: The required duration of use is specific to the condition being treated (e.g., up to eight weeks for some skin conditions). Official guidance advises limiting overall therapy to short-term use, if possible, due to limited data on prolonged administration.

Q: Can Gilt make existing medical conditions worse?

A: Official documents highlight the need for caution and potential monitoring in patients with certain pre-existing conditions. Specifically, individuals with a history of abnormal liver function tests may require monitoring when using the oral form.

Q: Can Gilt cause skin reactions or rashes?

A: Yes, the most commonly documented local effects are skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders. These include pruritus (itching), erythema (redness), and localized pain or stinging sensations at the application site.

How should Gilt be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Gilt (Clotrimazol)

The storage and disposal of Gilt must adhere strictly to official regulatory requirements to maintain product integrity and ensure safety.

Official Storage Requirements

Condition Requirement
Temperature Store at controlled room temperature, typically below 25 C or 30 C. Do not freeze the product.
Protection Must be protected from light and kept away from excess heat and moisture.
Container Keep in the original container, ensuring it is tightly closed after each use.
Safety Must be kept out of the reach and sight of children at all times.

Disposal Instructions

Unused or expired Gilt must be disposed of in accordance with local requirements. Regulatory guidance typically advises not to flush the medication down the toilet or pour it down a drain. Instead, utilize an authorized drug take-back program when available.

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

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