Topical clotrimazole is used to treat tinea corporis (ringworm; fungal skin infections that cause a red, scaly rash on different parts of the body), tinea cruris (jock itch; fungal skin infection in the groin or buttocks), and tinea pedis (athlete’s foot; fungal infection of the skin on the foot and between the toes). Clotrimazole belongs to a class of antifungal medications called imidazoles. Its action is to stop the growth of the fungi that cause the infection.

Topical clotrimazole comes as a cream and liquid to apply to the skin. It is usually applied twice a day (in the morning and at night). Carefully follow the instructions on the package label, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use clotrimazole exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of the medication, or use it more often than what is listed on the package or your doctor orders.

Topical clotrimazole is for use on the skin only. Do not let clotrimazole get into your eyes and do not swallow the medicine. Clotrimazole does not work on the scalp or nails.

If you use clotrimazole to treat jock itch, your symptoms should improve within 2 weeks of treatment. If you use clotrimazole to treat athlete’s foot or jock itch, your symptoms should improve within 4 weeks of treatment. If your symptoms do not improve during this time or if your symptoms worsen at any time during your treatment, call your doctor.

To use topical clotrimazole, wash the affected area and dry well. Then apply a small amount of cream or liquid to cover the affected area of ​​skin with a thin layer.

If you treat athlete’s foot, pay special attention to the spaces between your toes when applying clotrimazole. Also make sure he wears shoes that fit well and allow air circulation, and change shoes and socks at least once a day.