CATEGORY :
Clotrimazole is a synthetic chlorinated imidazole derivative with antifungal action.

MECHANISM OF ACTIONS :
The antifungal activity of imidazoles is due to their ability to increase fungal cell memberane permeability by interfering with the biosynthesis of sterols, particulary ergosterol. They are therefore, unlike Amphotericin B,which is only effective in growing cells. Host cells are not affected by this action, since humans use exogenous preformed sterols

PHARMACOKINETICS :
In vaginal administration 5 to 10 percent is absorbed from the vagina .

INDICATIONS :
Treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis ( moniliasis ) caused by Candida Albicans and other species of candida.

CONTRAINDICATIONS :
Hypersensitivity to Clotrimazole or any of the components.

DRUG INTERACTIONS :
Synergism or antagonism between Clotrimazole nitrate and Nystatin , or Amphotericin B or Flucytosine against strains of C . Albicans has not been reported .

ADVERSE EFFECTS :
Skin rash , lower abdominal cramps , bloating , slight urinary frequency , burning or irritation in the sexual partner occurs rarely . Vaginal soreness with coitus , vaginal irritation , itching , burning and dyspareunia have also been reported .