From the FDA Drug Label
Directions before using this product read the enclosed educational brochure for complete directions and information adults and children 12 years of age and over: ... external cream: use the same tube of cream if you have itching and irritation on the skin outside the vagina. Squeeze a small amount of cream onto your fingertip. Apply to itchy, irritated skin outside the vagina. Use 2 times daily for up to 7 days as needed.
The dosing for intertrigo is not explicitly mentioned in the label, but based on the information for external cream, the dosing for skin irritation outside the vagina is:
- Apply a small amount of cream to the affected area
- Use 2 times daily
- For up to 7 days as needed 1
From the Research
For intertrigo, clotrimazole 1% cream or lotion should be applied thinly to the affected areas twice daily for 2-4 weeks, as it has been shown to be effective in treating cutaneous candidiasis with complete cure rates of 73%-100% 2. When applying, gently spread the medication to cover the entire affected area, including a small margin of surrounding healthy skin. Some key points to consider when using clotrimazole for intertrigo include:
- Ensuring the area is clean and dry before application
- Continuing treatment for at least one week after symptoms resolve to prevent recurrence
- Keeping the area dry, as moisture promotes fungal growth, especially in skin folds
- Considering the use of absorbent powders (like zinc oxide or talc) after the medication has dried Clotrimazole works by disrupting the fungal cell membrane, preventing growth and reproduction of the fungal organisms that commonly exacerbate intertrigo 2. If symptoms don't improve within two weeks, or if the condition worsens, medical reassessment is recommended as bacterial co-infection may be present, potentially requiring additional treatment. It's also important to note that clotrimazole 1% contains the least number of potential allergenic ingredients compared to other antifungal creams, making it a good option for patients with sensitive skin 3. Overall, the use of clotrimazole 1% cream or lotion is a effective treatment option for intertrigo, with a low risk of adverse effects and a high cure rate 2.