From the FDA Drug Label
Directions ... 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 recommended treatment regimen for fungal skin infections using Canesten (clotrimazole) topical cream is to:
- 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 fungal skin infections, Canesten (clotrimazole) cream should be applied thinly to the affected area and surrounding skin 2-3 times daily for at least 2 weeks, and continued for 1-2 weeks after symptoms resolve to prevent recurrence. This treatment regimen is based on the most recent and highest quality study available, which emphasizes the importance of proper application and duration of treatment to ensure effective management of fungal skin infections 2.
Key Considerations for Treatment
- Before each application, wash and thoroughly dry the affected area, as fungi thrive in moist environments.
- Apply enough cream to cover the infected area completely, gently rubbing it in until absorbed.
- Avoid covering treated areas with airtight bandages unless directed by a healthcare provider.
- Clotrimazole works by disrupting the fungal cell membrane, preventing growth and reproduction of the fungus.
- If symptoms persist beyond 4 weeks of treatment, or if the infection worsens or recurs frequently, consult a healthcare provider as a different antifungal medication or additional treatment may be needed.
Duration of Treatment for Specific Infections
- For athlete's foot, treatment typically requires 4 weeks.
- For jock itch and ringworm, treatment usually needs 2-4 weeks of consistent application.
- It is crucial to continue treatment for at least one week after clinical clearing of the infection to prevent recurrence, as suggested by earlier studies 3, 4.
Importance of Adherence and Lifestyle Changes
- Antifungal resistance is becoming more common, and community nurses should address poor adherence and other possible causes of treatment failure before assuming antifungal resistance 2.
- Lifestyle changes that reduce the risk of antifungal failure, infection, and relapse should be suggested to patients, including proper foot care and hygiene practices.