Clotrimazole is a widely used antifungal medication that treats a variety of fungal skin infections, including athlete’s foot, jock itch, ringworm, and yeast infections.
Connect with a licensed provider on Klarity Health to evaluate your symptoms and get a prescription within 24 hours if medically appropriate.*
Providers on Klarity Health are independent practitioners with clinical autonomy; a diagnosis, treatment, or prescription is not guaranteed.
Providers on Klarity Health are independent practitioners with clinical autonomy; a diagnosis, treatment, or prescription is not guaranteed.
Your provider will discuss treatment options with you, which may or may not include medication.
Klarity Health connects you with experienced, licensed providers who specialize in the treatment of fungal skin infections. Select your state to see available providers.
You can request an appointment with a licensed provider through Klarity Health to determine if a clotrimazole prescription is medically appropriate. Start by booking an appointment with a board-certified provider. During the online visit, your provider may review your symptoms and medical history, and determine whether clotrimazole is appropriate.
Providers who may prescribe clotrimazole include:
If prescribed, your medication can be sent to a local or online pharmacy. Some versions may also be available OTC. It includes over-the-counter options and clotrimazole cream prescriptions for more persistent or widespread infections.
Clotrimazole is most commonly available in topical formulations. In some cases, a clotrimazole cream prescription is needed for recurrent or resistant fungal infections. It may include 1% cream, lotion, solution, or vaginal 1% or 2% formulations.
The standard dosage depends on the type and location of the infection. For example:
• Athlete’s foot, jock itch, or ringworm: Apply clotrimazole 1% cream twice daily for 2–4 weeks.
• Vaginal yeast infections: 1% clotrimazole vaginal cream is applied once daily for 7 days; 2% clotrimazole vaginal cream is applied once daily for 3 days.
• Oral thrush (lozenge form, prescription only): One troche (10 mg) is held in the mouth and allowed to dissolve slowly, five times daily for 14 consecutive days.
It’s important to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve early, to prevent recurrence. Do not apply to open wounds or use for longer than prescribed. Dosage and duration should always be confirmed with a licensed healthcare provider.
Clotrimazole is well tolerated but may cause mild side effects, especially when used vaginally or on sensitive skin.
Common side effects:
• Mild itching or burning
• Redness or irritation
• Peeling or dry skin
Less common side effects:
• Hives or rash
• Swelling or blistering
• Vaginal discomfort or discharge
Warnings:
• Avoid if allergic to clotrimazole or other azole antifungals.
• Discontinue use and consult a provider if symptoms worsen.
• Avoid contact with eyes and do not apply to open wounds. • Do not use in children under 3 years unless directed by a healthcare provider.
• Prolonged use of clotrimazole, especially in high concentrations or over a large area of skin, should be done with caution and according to the prescriber’s directions to avoid the risk of systemic absorption.
Report side effects to the FDA at MedWatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Clotrimazole is generally inexpensive, especially when purchased as a generic. Prices vary by formulation, strength, and pharmacy location. Below is a cost comparison from Drugs.com (retail prices) and GoodRx (discount prices based on Los Angeles, CA).
Form & strength | Quantity | Retail price on Drugs.com | GoodRx discount price (Los Angeles, CA) |
Topical cream 1% | 15g | $13.17 – $14.48 | $3.07– $22.09 |
Topical cream 1% | 45g | $11.17 – $24.93 | $6.28 – $30.95 |
Topical solution 1% | 10ml | $16.72 | $7.13 – $47.83 |
Clotrimazole is part of the imidazole antifungal family and is used for topical and vaginal fungal infections. Here’s how it compares to similar treatments:
Medication | Type | Used for | Rx needed? | Key difference |
Clotrimazole | Imidazole | Skin & vaginal infections | Some forms | Mild, widely available |
Miconazole | Imidazole | Vaginal & athlete’s foot | Some forms | Similar spectrum |
Terbinafine | Allylamine | Nail & skin infections | Yes (oral) | Stronger, systemic option |
Ketoconazole | Imidazole | Dandruff & skin issues | Yes | Often used in shampoos |
Clotrimazole is ideal for localized infections and causes fewer systemic side effects.
Read through stories from real patients who received treatment from healthcare providers on Klarity.
*Appointments are generally available within 24 hours. Free initial consultations are available only with select providers. Prescriptions, particularly for controlled substances, may require an in-person evaluation depending on the state of residence and current federal regulations.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. Providers on Klarity Health are independent practitioners with clinical autonomy. Nothing in this article is intended to diagnose or treat any condition, including guaranteeing prescription medication of any kind or dosage. Not all providers on Klarity Health prescribe all medications, particularly medications that are controlled substances.
If you’re having a mental health crisis or experiencing a psychiatric emergency, it’s crucial to seek immediate help from a mental healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist. You can also call your local emergency services, visit your nearest emergency room, or contact a crisis hotline, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, by calling or texting 988 or dialing the Lifeline’s previous phone number, 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) in the U.S.