What it means
An azole antifungal that damages the fungal cell membrane. As a cream it treats athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm and skin yeast infections; as a vaginal cream or insert it treats vaginal yeast infections; and as a slowly dissolving lozenge (troche) it treats or prevents thrush in the mouth. Little of it gets into the blood, so side effects are mostly local burning or irritation.
For the nurse
Teach the client to use it for the full course even after the itching stops. The troche must dissolve slowly in the mouth, not be chewed or swallowed whole. Vaginal products can weaken latex condoms and diaphragms.
At a glance
| Drug class | azole antifungal |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Lotrimin AF, Gyne-Lotrimin; Mycelex (troche, older brand) |
| Spanish | clotrimazol |
| Also written | Lotrimin, Gyne-Lotrimin, Mycelex |
Related terms
nystatin
An antifungal drug used as a liquid, cream or powder to treat yeast (Candida) infections of the mouth, skin and gut.