Product Description

Clotrimazole Powder 1% IP 100 gm is a topical antifungal dusting powder containing 1% w/w clotrimazole, an imidazole derivative, used to treat and prevent superficial fungal skin infections caused by dermatophytes, yeasts (e.g., Candida), and other susceptible fungi. It is particularly effective in moist, occluded areas where fungi thrive, such as intertriginous regions (skin folds). The powder formulation absorbs excess moisture, reduces friction, and delivers the antifungal agent directly to the affected site with minimal systemic absorption (<10%).

Clotrimazole works by inhibiting the fungal enzyme lanosterol 14-alpha-demethylase, disrupting ergosterol synthesis in the fungal cell membrane. This increases membrane permeability, leading to leakage of cellular contents, inhibition of growth, and eventual fungal cell death. Excipients (e.g., talc, starch, or silica) form the base, providing a soothing, moisture-absorbing vehicle that keeps the skin dry and prevents recurrence.

Uses

• Treatment of superficial dermatophyte infections (e.g., tinea pedis/athlete's foot, tinea corporis/ringworm, tinea cruris/jock itch)

• Management of cutaneous candidiasis (e.g., thrush in skin folds, intertrigo)

• Prevention and treatment of sweat-related fungal rashes in moist areas (e.g., groin, underarms)

• Adjunctive therapy for fungal diaper rash (nappy rash) in infants (only after confirming fungal etiology and under pediatric advice)

• Supportive hygiene in recurrent fungal-prone areas to reduce itching, redness, and chafing

How it works

Clotrimazole Powder 1% IP 100 gm combines antifungal action with physical moisture control. Clotrimazole, an azole antifungal, binds to fungal cytochrome P450 enzymes, specifically inhibiting lanosterol 14-alpha-demethylase. This blocks ergosterol biosynthesis—a key component of the fungal cell membrane—causing membrane instability, osmotic instability, and leakage of intracellular ions/proteins, leading to fungal cell death (fungicidal against Candida; fungistatic against dermatophytes). It is effective against common pathogens like Trichophyton, Microsporum, Epidermophyton, and Candida species. The powder base (talc/starch) absorbs sweat and sebum, reducing humidity in occluded areas (fungi require >60% moisture to proliferate), preventing spore germination and reinfection while providing a barrier against friction.

Benefits

• Directly targets and eradicates fungal infections by disrupting cell membranes, clearing symptoms like itching, scaling, and redness within 1-2 weeks

• Versatile for multiple superficial mycoses (e.g., athlete's foot, ringworm, jock itch, candidal intertrigo), offering broad-spectrum coverage without systemic side effects

• Moisture-absorbing formula keeps skin dry and comfortable, ideal for humid climates or sweaty areas, reducing recurrence rates by 50-70% with consistent use

• Soothes irritation and inflammation, alleviating burning, chafing, and swelling for improved daily comfort and mobility

• Preventive role in high-risk individuals (e.g., athletes, diabetics, infants with nappy rash), promoting skin hygiene without greasiness or staining

• Cost-effective, non-staining, and easy to apply compared to creams/ointments for powder-preferring patients

How to use

• Clean and thoroughly dry the affected area and surrounding skin (pat gently; avoid rubbing to prevent irritation).

• Shake the container to loosen the powder, then apply a thin, even layer (dust lightly) to the affected area and 1-2 cm beyond, 2-3 times daily or as directed (e.g., after bathing, before bed).

• For intertriginous areas (e.g., groin, under breasts), use sparingly to avoid clumping; reapply after sweating or diaper changes.

• Wash hands before and after application (unless treating hands); avoid contact with eyes, mouth, nose, or open wounds—rinse immediately if accidental exposure occurs.

• Continue treatment for the full duration (typically 2-4 weeks for tinea; 7-14 days for candidiasis), even if symptoms resolve, to prevent relapse. Consult a doctor if there is no improvement in 2 weeks or if the infection spreads.

Side Effects

• Local irritation (burning or stinging sensation at the application site)

• Redness or mild rash

• Itching or dryness

• Allergic contact dermatitis (e.g., hives, swelling—rare, <1%)

• Secondary skin maceration if over-applied in moist areas

• Rare but serious: Severe hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylaxis), worsening infection (if resistant fungi), or inhalation irritation (cough if inhaled excessively)

Safety Advice

• No significant alcohol interaction, as it is topical with negligible systemic absorption—safe for moderate use, but consult your doctor if concerned about overall skin health.

• Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed (FDA category B; minimal absorption, but avoid large areas or broken skin—consult your doctor). Safe during breastfeeding (does not pass into milk; avoid application to breasts/nipples).

• Contraindicated in hypersensitivity to clotrimazole or azoles. Avoid broken/infected skin, deep wounds, or mucous membranes. Caution in children <2 years (use minimal amounts under pediatric guidance to avoid inhalation or overuse).

• May weaken latex condoms/diaphragms (up to 5 days post-use if applied vaginally—use alternative contraception). Inform your doctor of other topicals (e.g., corticosteroids—combine cautiously to avoid masking symptoms). Discontinue if irritation worsens or signs of allergy appear; seek medical advice for persistent/recurrent infections.

• Not for internal use (e.g., oral thrush—use lozenges/suspensions); test a small area first if prone to allergies.

Storage Conditions

• Store at temperatures below 30°C (86°F); do not freeze.

FAQs

What is this powder used for?

It is used to treat and prevent common fungal skin infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm, jock itch, and fungal sweat and nappy rashes. 

How does it work?

The active ingredient, clotrimazole, is an antifungal that kills fungi by damaging their cell membranes. The powder base also helps to absorb moisture, creating a dry environment that discourages fungal growth. 

How do I apply the powder?

Clean and thoroughly dry the affected area first. Then, sprinkle a light, even layer of powder over the infected skin. You should do this 2 to 3 times a day or as your doctor advises. 

For how long should I use it?

Continue using the powder for the full duration recommended by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve quickly. Stopping early can cause the infection to return. For tinea infections, treatment may last up to one month. 

Can I use it on private parts?

The powder is for external use only. While it can be used on the groin area for jock itch, you should consult your doctor before applying it to other sensitive areas.

What are the side effects?

Common, minor side effects can include a mild burning or stinging sensation, skin irritation, redness, or blistering. If these become severe or persistent, contact your doctor. 

What if I have an allergic reaction?

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as a rash, severe swelling of the face or throat, or breathing problems. 

Is it safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should consult your doctor before using this product. While external use is often considered low-risk, it is best to be cautious. 

Is it safe for children?

The powder can be used on children aged two and older, but only as directed by a pediatrician. 

Is powder or cream better for fungal infections?

The best option depends on the location and type of infection. 

• Powder: Ideal for areas that are moist or sweaty, such as skin folds, between the toes, and for sweat or nappy rashes, because it helps absorb moisture.

• Cream: May be more effective for treating localized patches of infection, where it provides better contact and deeper skin penetration. 

How long does it take to see improvement?

You can expect to see relief from itching and soreness within a few days of starting treatment. However, signs like redness and scaling may take longer to disappear.