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Common uses
Clotrimazole, the active ingredient in this medication, is used to treat fungal infections. In preparations for the skin, it is effective against ringworm, athlete's foot, and jock itch. In vaginal creams and tablets, it is used against vaginal yeast infections. In lozenge form, it is prescribed to treat oral yeast infections and to prevent them in people with weak immune systems.
Before using
Your doctor need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•diabetes mellitus
•immunosuppression, recent chemotherapy treatments, or infection with the human immunodeficiency ( HIV) virus
•other chronic health condition
•an unusual or allergic reaction to clotrimazole, other medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding
Directions
Keep all forms of this medicine away from your eyes.
Before applying the skin preparations, be sure to wash your hands. Massage the medication gently into the affected area and the surrounding skin.
If you are taking Mycelex troches, place the lozenge in your mouth and let it dissolve slowly for 15 to 30 minutes. Do not chew the lozenge or swallow it whole.
If you are using a vaginal cream or tablet, use the following administration technique:
1. Load the applicator to the fill line with cream, or unwrap a tablet, wet it with warm water, and place it in the applicator as shown in the instructions you receive with the product.
2. Lie on your back with your knees drawn up.
3. Gently insert the applicator high into the vagina and push the plunger.
4. Withdraw the applicator and discard it if disposable, or wash with soap and water.
To keep the vaginal medication from getting on your clothing, wear a sanitary napkin. Do not use a tampon because it will absorb the medicine. Wear underwear or pantyhose with a cotton crotch%mdash;avoid synthetic fabrics such as nylon or rayon. Do not douche unless your doctor tells you to do so.
Cautions
If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
Avoid using tampons while using clotrimazole.
Wear freshly washed cotton underwear while using this medicine.
Do not stop using clotrimazole unless your doctor tells you to. If you stop using the medicine too soon, your infection may return.
Call your doctor right away if your symptoms do not go away after using this medicine for the full time ordered by your doctor.
Possible side effects
Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:
• mild vaginal burning, irritation, or itching.
Seek medical attention right away if any of these severe side effects occur:
• severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); fever or chills; foul-smelling vaginal discharge; nausea; severe or prolonged vaginal burning, irritation, or itching; stomach pain; swelling; vomiting.
Additional information
Gyne-Lotrimin vaginal is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
Drug interactions
•spermicides
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are using, including non-prescription medicines. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
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