Clotrimazole

Antifungal
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Clotrimazole is a antifungal found in 14 medicines sold in India, such as Candid, Clocip, Candid Mouth Paint. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Treats fungal skin infections such as ringworm, jock itch, athlete's foot and thrush.

How it works

An azole antifungal cream, powder, vaginal tablet or mouth paint for ringworm, athlete's foot, jock itch, thrush and fungal ear infections.

How to take it

Apply thinly 2 to 3 times a day and continue for 2 weeks after the rash clears. Keep the area clean and dry.

Common side effects

Mild burning, itching or redness

Get medical help straight away if

  • Rash spreads or blisters
  • No improvement after 2 to 4 weeks

Be careful

Keep using for 1 to 2 weeks after the rash clears.

Other medicines and interactions

Vaginal forms can damage latex condoms and diaphragms.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Safe in pregnancy (preferred for vaginal thrush) and breastfeeding.

Brands of Clotrimazole (10)

CandexCandidCandid Mouth PaintCandid V GelCanestenClocipClotrinImidilSurfazZocon C

Combination medicines that contain Clotrimazole (4)

Candid Ear DropsCandid-BClingenCloben-G

Common questions

What is Clotrimazole used for?

Treats fungal skin infections such as ringworm, jock itch, athlete's foot and thrush.

How does Clotrimazole work?

An azole antifungal cream, powder, vaginal tablet or mouth paint for ringworm, athlete's foot, jock itch, thrush and fungal ear infections.

How should I take Clotrimazole?

Apply thinly 2 to 3 times a day and continue for 2 weeks after the rash clears. Keep the area clean and dry.

What are the side effects of Clotrimazole?

Common: Mild burning, itching or redness. Get help straight away for: Rash spreads or blisters, no improvement after 2 to 4 weeks.

Does Clotrimazole interact with other medicines?

Vaginal forms can damage latex condoms and diaphragms.

Is Clotrimazole safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Safe in pregnancy (preferred for vaginal thrush) and breastfeeding.

Does Clotrimazole need a prescription in India?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Which brands contain Clotrimazole?

Candex, Candid, Candid Ear Drops, Candid Mouth Paint, Candid V Gel, Candid-B, Canesten, Clingen, Cloben-G, Clocip, Clotrin, Imidil, Surfaz, Zocon C.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.