Clotrimazole BP refers to Clotrimazole as listed in the British Pharmacopoeia (BP). The British Pharmacopoeia is a collection of standards for the quality of medicinal substances and medicinal products used in the United Kingdom. Therefore, "Clotrimazole BP" signifies that the clotrimazole product meets the quality specifications outlined in the British Pharmacopoeia.
Clotrimazole itself is an antifungal medication used to treat various fungal infections. It belongs to a class of drugs called azole antifungals and works by 1 inhibiting the growth of fungi.
Here's a summary of clotrimazole's key aspects:
Common Uses:
- Skin infections: Athlete's foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), ringworm (tinea corporis), and other fungal skin infections.
- Vaginal yeast infections (thrush): Both internal and external applications.
- Fungal nail infections: Although topical clotrimazole may not be very effective for nail infections.
- Other fungal infections: Such as pityriasis versicolor and candidal nappy rash.
Available Forms:
- Topical creams, solutions, and sprays: For skin infections.
- Vaginal creams and tablets (pessaries): For vaginal yeast infections.
- Oral lozenges: For oral thrush (candidiasis).
How to Use (General Guidelines):
- Apply to the affected area as directed, usually two or three times a day for skin infections.
- Vaginal preparations are used intravaginally as per the product instructions.
- Continue treatment for the recommended duration, even if symptoms improve. For skin infections, this is often for at least 2 weeks, and for some, up to a month. Vaginal thrush treatment usually lasts for 1-7 days depending on the product.
Common Side Effects:
- Skin irritation, redness, burning, or stinging at the application site.
- For vaginal use, possible discomfort, swelling, or irritation in the vaginal area.
