Clotrimazole for nail fungus - treatment, effectiveness, photo

The antimycotic drug Clotrimazole for nail fungus eliminates the symptoms of mycosis and destroys the pathogen. The drug can be purchased in the form of ointment, drops, cream, solution and spray for local application.

To eliminate foot fungus, a solution and cream are often used. If the infection is present not only on the nails, it is recommended to treat with drops or spray. All forms differ in composition, therefore it is necessary to clarify the rationality of using each of them for a separate type and localization of mycosis.

Causes and factors for the development of fungus

In medical practice, a stable definition of factors that contribute to the development of toenail fungus has been formed. This is why it is very important for such categories of patients as:

With wounds, corns, abrasions and cuts to the feet, which happens due to improperly selected shoes or certain cosmetic procedures;
Who, due to certain reasons, cannot take proper hygienic care of their feet;
With a weakened or suppressed immune system;
Taking certain types of medications, including antibiotics;
With excessive sweating of the feet and the whole body as a whole.

If at least one of the above factors is present, the risk of nail fungus may increase several times. That is why you should always avoid causes of infection by pathogenic microorganisms.

That is why very often infection also occurs in some public institutions, where people come into contact with objects used by others.

These include baths, saunas, gyms, swimming pools and beaches. All these places are characterized by high humidity, which is a favorable environment for the development of mycosis.

It is worth noting that fungal spores are quite tenacious, as they can withstand both very high and extremely low temperatures. They are even present in beach sand, which gets into small cracks in the feet and causes foot and nail fungus.

How can you become infected with a fungus?

Fungus is a highly contagious and difficult to treat disease. It is acquired. In fact, you can become infected through any contact with spores, which can remain on the surface for a very long time. There are 2 types of infection:

Straight way. The fungus penetrates through soil, plants, contact with a sick person, and sometimes even an animal;
Indirect path. Through the use of objects that were previously in the patient’s everyday life and were contaminated.

Symptoms

The symptoms of nail fungus can be quite varied. The most popular and first signs of this disease are dry and flaky skin around the nail. Redness and swelling often occur over time.

Gradually, as the disease progresses, the shape and color of the nail plate changes. After some time, stripes and spots appear. They often have a yellow tint, although they can change to completely different ones, including dark ones.

As the disease progresses, the nail gradually deteriorates, becoming very brittle.

All manifestations of onychomycosis depend on the form of the disease, among which the following types can be distinguished:

Vesicular - the lesion begins from the bottom of the foot. First, swellings and blisters with clear liquid appear, gradually affecting healthy areas of the skin and also affecting the nail. Often a bacterial infection is associated with the fungus.
Membranous - begins between the little toe and the penultimate toe. Redness, itching and scaling often occur. More severe symptoms may be caused by the presence of bacteria.
Moccasin-like - the lesion begins from the sole, where it is often localized on the heel. The person feels pain. They appear due to thickening of the skin and the appearance of cracks.

Rules of application

To increase the effectiveness of treatment, the product must be used strictly according to the instructions. It lists several steps to follow:

Soak affected limbs in hot water. It is also recommended to add grated laundry or tar soap or baking soda. This procedure lasts about 10-15 minutes.
Before treatment, you need to trim your nails and remove dead skin particles.
Dry your feet with a paper towel.
Apply the ointment carefully, but do not rub the product in. Give it time to absorb.

On average, treatment lasts 2-4 months, much depends on the stage of the disease, the area and area of the fungal infection. If the fungus appears on the nail plate, then therapy will require more time - from 5 months. In this case, after recovery, it is necessary to continue the course and use the antifungal drug for another 2-3 weeks to prevent relapse.

In order for recovery to occur a little earlier, it is advisable to carry out complex therapy: combine the use of antifungals with vitamins. Good immunity is the key to health. In addition, this will protect a person from mycosis infection in the future.

The fungus is very contagious . To protect loved ones from infection, you must adhere to the following rules:

Wash your feet thoroughly and then rinse them so that no foam from soap or gel remains on the skin. This is due to the fact that the alkali contained in detergents does not allow the antimycotic to penetrate deeply.
Use only personal items: robe, towel. However, they must be washed every five days. As a last resort, you can use disposable paper towels.
When treating nails and keratinized particles, work only with a personal manicure set and be sure to disinfect the devices, and after recovery, purchase new ones.
During treatment, you should not visit public places - swimming pool, sauna or bathhouse.
Do not use someone else’s shoes; be sure to wear slippers at home and change your socks daily.
After washing your feet, you need to dry them thoroughly: a humid environment is most favorable for the reproduction and development of fungi.
Be sure to complete the entire course without any breaks.
Do not exceed the dose stated in the instructions, otherwise some side effects may occur in the form of hives and watery blisters.
After handling activities, be sure to wash your hands with soap or use any antiseptic. These basic actions will prevent the fungal infection from spreading to healthy areas of the body.

In addition, before use, it is still better to consult a specialized doctor, since the fungus has different forms and the use of Clotrimazole may not have the desired effect. It is better to get tested, diagnose the disease, and only then begin proper treatment.

Composition and action

Clotrimazole for nail fungus destroys the cell membrane of pathological microorganisms. As a result, the production of ergosterol, which is necessary for the development of the fungus, is disrupted, which leads to its complete death. The main active component in each form is clotrimazole 1%. Additional components of the solution:

ethanol;
propylene glycol;
polyethylene glycol.

Additional components of the ointment:

propylene glycol;
methylparaben;
polyethylene oxides.

The action of the antimycotic drug Clotrimazole against nail fungus:

Fungicidal. Completely destroys spores and affected cells.
Fungistatic. Limits the spread of infection.

Clotrimazole has a complex effect on fungal infections. The damaged nail ceases to bother you due to the elimination of peeling and severe itching.

The medicine also helps get rid of unpleasant odors and has a pronounced deodorizing effect. The main effect is the destruction of pathogenic microflora and the direct causative agent of infection.

Clotrimazole solution against nail fungus is a broad-spectrum drug. For the treatment of onychomycosis, dermatologists recommend using this particular form.

Is it possible to cure fungus using Clotrimazole? Yes, you can. The substance quickly accumulates in the nail plate and completely destroys the causative agent of mycosis.

Clotrimazole

Over the past few decades, the problem of fungal diseases has become particularly relevant. This is largely due to the progression of immune disorders, which leads to an increase in the incidence of mycoses and a more severe course of the pathological process. One of the drugs that helps solve this problem is Clotrimazole. According to its chemical structure, it belongs to imidazole derivatives and has a wide range of antifungal effects. The fungicidal properties of the drug are due to its ability to disrupt the formation of one of the key elements of the cell wall of the parasitic fungus - ergosterol, which provokes a change in the morphology and properties of the cell, and ultimately causes its death (lysis). The ability to be fungistatic (inhibit the growth and development of parasitic fungi) or fungicidal (destroy them) is determined by the concentration of Clotrimazole in vitro: in the first case, from 1 μg/ml to 10 μg/ml of the active substance is sufficient. At a higher dose, the drug has a fungicidal effect against most known types of fungi. For candidiasis, Clotrimazole exhibits a fungicidal effect starting at 2 μg/ml. Sensitivity to Clotrimazole has been noted in dermatophytes, molds, yeasts (including “red” yeast, candida), in the causative agents of pityriasis versicolor and erythrasma. In addition, the drug exhibits an antibacterial effect against the most common opportunistic gram-positive microorganisms (staphylococci, streptococci), certain genera of gram-negative bacteria (gardnerella, bacterioides), as well as Corynebacterium minussimum, Malazessia furfur and Trichomonas vaginalis.

Due to poor absorption through the skin and mucous membranes, the drug does not have a systemic effect and associated side effects.

Clotrimazole is available in several dosage forms: vaginal cream, suppositories and tablets, cream and ointment for external use. In domestic pharmacies, the drug with the trade name “Clotrimazole” in the form of branded generics and generics can be found from several manufacturers at once, including Russian (Atoll, Avexima, GlaxoSmithKline Trading, ZiO-Zdorovye, Sintez, Ozon, Akrikhin) and foreign pharmaceutical companies: Esparma (Germany), Hyperion (Romania), Farmaprim (Moldova), Sedate Helcare (India), Medana Pharma (Poland), Teva (Israel), Shreya (India). Considering the lack of absorption through the skin and, therefore, systemic (not only locally, but also on remote organs and tissues) action, the use of Clotrimazole in high doses is not associated with life-threatening reactions. Poisoning by the drug is possible only through inappropriate (in this case, oral) use. Symptoms of toxicosis caused by Clotrimazole are nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, anorexia, liver dysfunction, dermatological reactions, polyuria. In such a situation, the use of activated carbon is indicated.

How is the treatment carried out?

How to properly treat nail fungus with Clotrimazole:

You should definitely read the instructions, each dosage form has its own characteristics;
the medicine is applied to previously cleansed and dried skin;
gel, cream and ointment are distributed on the nail and diseased skin in a thin layer;
using a spray, you need to make sure that the entire area affected by the fungus is covered with the medicine;
During treatment, you need to soak the diseased nail.

If regular use of the medicine according to the instructions does not lead to an improvement in the condition and Clotrimazole does not help with nail fungus, you need to be examined by a dermatologist to correct the treatment regimen.

Before applying the medicine, it is necessary to clean the surface of the nail plate with a cosmetic file for better penetration of the substance into the tissue.

After the signs disappear, you need to continue using the medicine for another two weeks to completely eliminate the pathogen. During the recovery period, you also need to undergo tests to assess the effectiveness of treatment.

Pharmacological properties

Many patients, having tried numerous medications, doubt whether Clotrimazole helps with nail fungus. To find out the answer, it is worth considering the substances that make up this drug and finding out its properties . Antifungal ointment contains:

glycerol;
propylene glycol;
sage essential oil;
carbomer.

In addition to these elements, the composition includes Clotrimazole, which is why the product got its name. Clotrimazole for foot fungus is one of the most effective fungicidal drugs; it has a complex effect:

dries the wound;
destroys pathogens;
promotes regeneration of affected nails and skin;
prevents the addition of a secondary infection;
cauterizes the affected surface of the epithelium.

In addition, the product prevents the production of ergosterol, which means that fungal spores stop spreading. Due to the impaired integrity of the micromycete membrane, fluid is lost, and this, in turn, leads to the destruction of mycosis at the cellular level.

Indications and dosage

Clotrimazole solution, spray and ointment have the following indications:

mycosis of the skin, foot and nail plate;
complicated fungal infection with concomitant pyoderma;
superficial candidiasis provoked by mold or yeast fungi;
lichen, deep mycosis caused by fungi of the genus Candida and dermatophytes.

Dosage:

in case of superficial damage to the nail, treatment of the fungus is carried out for a month with the application of cream, gel or ointment 3 times a day;
long-term treatment for 3-4 weeks with three applications of the product will be required for deep mycosis and atypical localization of the fungal infection;
the fungus with accompanying lichen should be treated for at least 3 weeks by treating the skin with a solution and applying a gel or ointment 3-4 times a day;
for mycosis of the foot, it is recommended to use the medicine for at least 2 weeks, applying the ointment up to 4 times a day.

Symptoms of Clotrimazole poisoning:

nausea and stomach pain;
dizziness and vomiting;
dermatological manifestations of allergies;
Hallucinations appear extremely rarely;
weakness and frequent urination.

Release form

You can buy the product at any pharmacy; it is a cheap local antimycotic. The price of the drug may vary depending on the form of release. The medicine can be in the form of:

cream;
gel;
ointments;
solution;
capsules

The solution is most often used to treat fungal infections on the nails: the liquid penetrates the nail plate much more easily.
Clotrimazole creams and ointments also have a good effect: foot fungus disappears after a course of use. These are the most popular forms of release; they have similar compositions and instructions. However, the ointment is quite greasy, so it takes a long time to absorb, which is not very convenient, and leaves marks and stains that are difficult to remove.

Clotrimazole cream is more convenient, it has a soft structure and is absorbed almost instantly. Therefore, this option is more suitable for people with a lack of time. Those with overly sensitive skin should be more careful when handling this product, since it is the cream that often causes an allergic reaction, but the ointment, on the contrary, improves the condition of the epidermis: it nourishes, moisturizes and gives elasticity.

Contraindications

Treatment of fungal infection with Clotrimazole is contraindicated during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. There are restrictions in case of hypersensitivity to the main and additional components. An antimycotic agent is prescribed with caution during breastfeeding.

Application of the drug to the mucous membranes and around the eyes is unacceptable (with the exception of some forms prescribed by a dermatologist).

When signs of hypersensitivity or allergy appear, treatment is stopped immediately. If long-term use does not produce any effect, a repeat test is performed to confirm the diagnosis.

General treatment recommendations

To obtain the desired treatment result, it is necessary to undergo an examination by a dermatologist and take tests to determine the sensitivity of the infection to drugs.

The effect of the antifungal agent will depend on the concentration. In a smaller dosage, Clotrimazole has a fungistatic effect, while a larger dose provides a fungicidal effect.

The use of any dosage form is not allowed when the causative agent of the infection is not identified. If during the development of mycosis, treatment with any medications is carried out, it is necessary to check with the doctor about drug interactions.

The combination of certain substances with Clotrimazole may lead to the development of an adverse reaction. During the treatment period, it is important not to miss the time of application of the medicine. Long breaks will reduce effectiveness, which will affect the duration of treatment.

Clotrimazole is available without a prescription. It should be stored out of the reach of children and away from a light source.

Clotrimazole is in many ways safer than similar drugs, but before use you still need to be examined by a doctor and determine the cause of the fungal infection for comprehensive treatment.

Prevention

By performing prevention you can avoid mycosis:

Avoid contact of feet with the floor in public places;
Apply protective creams;
Disinfect shoes monthly;
Take vitamin complexes;
Eliminate or reduce the amount of alcohol;
Disinfect the bathroom;
Boil the laundry;
Do not wear another person’s clothes or use manicure accessories;
Cure fungus in all family members;
Get a pedicure every 1–1.5 months.

Patient reviews

My daughter is a swimmer, so we know about mycosis firsthand: it is, so to speak, an occupational disease in our country. Previously, it was very difficult; we spent a lot of money on various antifungal agents, but they didn’t help much. Now we always have Clotrimazole with us, and this is the second year without a single infection. We use it for prevention; we treat our feet once a week.

Oksana

I am a student, I got a room in a dorm, naturally, a shared shower. There I became infected with a fungus, and this is not the first time this problem has happened to me. This time, a friend advised me to buy Clotrimazole, and, to my surprise, the infection went away in just over a month. I was able to get rid of my previous defeat only after six months. I was treated as follows: I treat the entire foot between the toes, I do it in the morning, afternoon and evening. So I advise everyone, the cream really helps a lot.

Victoria

I am 57 years old, four months ago I noticed a fungus on my big toe nail.
I went to the clinic to see a dermatologist, he prescribed me Clotrimazole. I treated my leg every day, everything exactly according to the instructions, after 2.5 months the fungus disappeared. The product is very good and inexpensive, which is especially nice for pensioners. Gregory