How does this medication work? What will it do for me?
This combination product contains two medications: betamethasone and clotrimazole. It is used to treat itchy, inflamed skin rashes caused by certain types of fungus (e.g., athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm). Betamethasone belongs to the group of medications called corticosteroids and it works by decreasing inflammation. Clotrimazole belongs to the group of medications called antifungals and it works by killing certain types of fungus.
Once treatment is started, itching and redness are usually relieved within 3 to 5 days. If relief does not occur after 1 week of use for jock itch or ringworm, contact your doctor. If relief does not occur after 2 weeks of use for athlete's foot, contact your doctor.
This medication may be available under multiple brand names and/or in several different forms. Any specific brand name of this medication may not be available in all of the forms or approved for all of the conditions discussed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are being given this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to use this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
How should I use this medication?
Apply a thin film of cream to completely cover the affected and surrounding skin areas twice daily, in the morning and at night or as directed by your doctor. The cream is usually used for a period of 2 to 4 weeks depending on the condition being treated. Using the cream for more than 4 weeks is not recommended.
This cream should not be covered with bandages or other coverings after application. Do not use this medication in or near the eyes.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the one above, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to use this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children.
Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Each 1 g of smooth white cream contains 10 mg of clotrimazole USP and 0.64mg of betamethasone dipropionate, USP, equivalent to 0.5mg (0.05%) of betamethasone USP, in a hydrophilic emollient cream. Nonmedicinal ingredients: purified water, cetostearyl alcohol, white petrolatum, mineral oil, cetomacrogol 1000, phosphoric acid, monobasic sodium phosphate, propylene glycol, benzyl alcohol as preservative and sodium hydroxide to adjust the pH.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not use betamethasone dipropionate - clotrimazole if you:
- are allergic to betamethasone, clotrimazole, or any ingredients of this medication
- are allergic to other corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone, clobetasol) or imidazoles (e.g., miconazole)
- have untreated bacterial infections of the skin
- have untreated tuberculosis of the skin
- have viral diseases of the skin, including:
- vaccinia
- varicella (chickenpox)
- herpes simplex
What side effects are possible with this medication?
Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent.
The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who uses this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.
The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people using this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.
Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.
- acne outbreaks with skin redness
- blistering, stinging, itching, peeling, redness, swelling, or other signs of skin irritation not present before use of this medication
- excessive hair growth
- numbness of the hands and feet
- patches of lighter skin tone
- skin rash
- skin redness around the mouth
Although most of the side effects listed below don't happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not check with your doctor or seek medical attention.
Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:
- blurred vision
- hives
- reddish purple lines on the skin
- skin infection
- stretch marks
- thinning of the skin or easy bruising
- tingling or pins and needles sensation on the skin
Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.
Are there any other precautions or warnings for this medication?
Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.
Inform all health professionals involved in your care that you have been using corticosteroids.
Eyes: Do not use this medication in or around the eyes. Wash your hands and do not touch your eyes after applying this medication. Absorption of this medication around the eyes can increase the risks for developing cataracts or glaucoma. If you experience blurred vision or any other changes to your eyesight, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Medical conditions: If you have stasis dermatitis and other skin conditions with reduced blood circulation, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Overuse of medication: Side effects caused by absorption into the blood stream are less common with betamethasone dipropionate - clotrimazole than some other medications containing corticosteroids. Long-term use of this medication over large areas of the body or under dressings that don't breathe could lead to the absorption of betamethasone into the body's blood circulation, resulting in changes in hormone levels and other side effects. Discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor.
Thinning of skin: Prolonged use of topical (applied to the skin) corticosteroid products may produce thinning of the skin and tissues under it. If you notice this, call your doctor.
Pregnancy: This medication should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately. Topical medications that contain corticosteroids should not be used by pregnant woman in large amounts or for prolonged periods of time.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are using this medication, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using this medication have not been established for children under the age of 12 years. The use of topical corticosteroids such as betamethasone by children should be limited to the least amount that will give good results. Chronic corticosteroid therapy may interfere with growth and physical development of children.
What other drugs could interact with this medication?
There may be an interaction between betamethasone - clotrimazole and any of the following:
- aldesleukin
- sirolimus
- tacrolimus
- other topical medications containing corticosteroids
- topical medications that have irritating effects
If you are using any medications that fit this description, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:
- stop taking one of the medications,
- change one of the medications to another,
- change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
- leave everything as is.
An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.
Medications other than those listed above may interact with this medication. Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications that you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the nicotine from cigarettes, or illegal drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2023. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/Taro-ClotrimazoleBetamethasone-dipropionate
FAQs
Can clotrimazole and betamethasone side effects? ›
High doses or long-term use of betamethasone and clotrimazole topical can lead to thinning skin, easy bruising, changes in body fat (especially in your face, neck, back, and waist), increased acne or facial hair, menstrual problems, impotence, or loss of interest in sex.
Can you use betamethasone on your private parts? ›This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, mouth, or vagina. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts, scrapes, or burns.
What are the 2 side effects of clotrimazole cream? ›- rash.
- hives.
- stomach pain.
- fever.
- chills.
- nausea.
- vomiting.
- foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
CLOTRIMAZOLE; BETAMETHASONE (kloe TRIM a zole; bay ta METH a sone) is a corticosteroid and antifungal cream. It treats ringworm and infections like jock itch and athlete's foot. It also helps reduce swelling, redness, and itching caused by these infections.
What are the main side effects of clotrimazole? ›Adverse Effects
When using clotrimazole to treat vulvovaginal candidiasis, <10% of patients have a vulvar or vaginal burning sensation. Other side effects include rash, hives, blisters, burning, itching, peeling, redness, swelling, pain, or other signs of skin irritation.
If you use too much clotrimazole cream, spray or solution or use it more often than you need to, it may make your skin irritated or red. If this happens, use less the next time.
What to avoid when taking betamethasone? ›Betamethasone foam should not be used near an open flame or high heat because it may catch fire. If you are a smoker, do not smoke until the foam has completely dried on your skin.
How long does betamethasone stay in your body? ›| Clinical data | |
|---|---|
| Metabolism | Liver CYP3A4 |
| Elimination half-life | 36-54 hours |
| Excretion | Kidney (in urine) |
| Identifiers | |
Do not wash or rinse the treated areas immediately after applying the medicine. Do not use this medicine near heat, open flame, or while smoking.
How do I know if clotrimazole is working? ›The symptoms of fungal infections, such as itching or soreness, should get better within a few days of treatment. Red and scaly skin may take longer to get better. You may need treatment for between 1 and 4 weeks. Keep using clotrimazole for 2 weeks even if your symptoms have gone.
What drugs should not be taken with clotrimazole? ›
Clotrimazole topical has no listed minor interactions with any other drugs.
When should you not use clotrimazole? ›- you're allergic to clotrimazole or any of the ingredients in the medicine.
- you're having your period – wait until it's finished.
Clotrimazole cream, spray or solution can sometimes cause irritated or red skin, or pain or a burning or stinging feeling when you put it on. If you get these side effects and they do not go away, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.
Where should you not apply betamethasone? ›This medication is only for use on the skin. Do not let betamethasone topical get into your eyes or mouth and do not swallow it. Avoid use in the genital and rectal areas and in skin creases and armpits unless directed by your doctor.
How long does it take for clotrimazole and betamethasone to work? ›Betamethasone belongs to the group of medications called corticosteroids and it works by decreasing inflammation. Clotrimazole belongs to the group of medications called antifungals and it works by killing certain types of fungus. Once treatment is started, itching and redness are usually relieved within 3 to 5 days.
Can clotrimazole make you feel sick? ›Nausea, vomiting, mild itching, or an unpleasant sensation in the mouth may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.
Is clotrimazole side effects liver? ›Mechanism of Injury. The cause of the serum enzyme elevations during clotrimazole therapy is unknown, but many of the antifungal azoles have been implicated in causing liver injury. Because there is minimal systemic absorption, clotrimazole concentrations may not reach levels that could cause significant liver injury.
Can you put clotrimazole on private area? ›Clotrimazole is a cream that can be used inside the vagina or on the surrounding skin to treat itching, burning, or discomfort caused by a vaginal yeast infection.
How long does clotrimazole stay in your system? ›After oral administration of a 10 mg clotrimazole troche to healthy volunteers, concentrations sufficient to inhibit most species of Candida persist in saliva for up to three hours following the approximately 30 minutes needed for a troche to dissolve.
Is clotrimazole bad for you? ›Clotrimazole may cause side effects. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using clotrimazole and call your doctor: blistering, redness, swelling, itching, burning, stinging, peeling, hives, or skin cracks.
How long does clotrimazole take to absorb into skin? ›
Always leave about 30 minutes between applying different products to the same area of skin, to give them time to be absorbed.
Do betamethasone side effects go away? ›Common side effects
Once you stop taking betamethasone, your appetite and water retention should return to normal.
Common side effects of betamethasone may include:
headache, depression, mood swings; sleep problems (insomnia);
Using betamethasone for a long time without stopping can mean some of the medicine gets into your bloodstream. If this happens, there's a very small chance it can cause serious side effects, such as adrenal gland problems, high blood sugar (hyperglycaemia), thinning of your skin, or problems with your eyesight.
What is the warning for betamethasone? ›Check with your doctor right away if you have a skin rash, blistering, burning, crusting, dryness, flaking of the skin, itching, scaling, severe redness, stinging, swelling, or irritation on the skin.
Does betamethasone increase blood pressure? ›Your blood pressure might get too high while you are using this medicine. This may cause headaches, dizziness, or blurred vision. You might need to measure your blood pressure at home. If you think your blood pressure is too high, call your doctor right away.
Does betamethasone make you tired? ›Betamethasone injectable suspension doesn't cause drowsiness, but it can cause other side effects.
What are the side effects of betamethasone dipropionate? ›- Blistering, burning, crusting, dryness, or flaking of the skin.
- cracking or tightening of the skin.
- dry skin.
- flushing or redness of the skin.
- irritation.
- itching, scaling, severe redness, soreness, or swelling of the skin.
Using too much of this medicine or using it for a long time may increase your risk of having adrenal gland problems. The risk is greater for children and patients who use large amounts for a long time.
Is betamethasone a strong steroid? ›Betamethasone is a highly potent steroid that prevents the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation. Betamethasone topical (for the skin) is used to treat the inflammation and itching caused by a number of skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
What kills fungus completely? ›
Antifungals are medicines that kill or stop the growth of fungi (the plural of fungus) that cause infections. They are also called antimycotic agents.
Can you drink water after clotrimazole? ›It takes about 30 minutes for clotrimazole lozenge to dissolve completely in your mouth. Avoid eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth during this time.
Can I drink alcohol with clotrimazole? ›Yes, you can drink alcohol while using clotrimazole. Is there any food or drink I need to avoid? No, you can eat and drink normally while using clotrimazole.
Is clotrimazole a strong steroid? ›Lotrisone (clotrimazole / betamethasone) contains a moderate-to-high potency steroid, depending on whether you're prescribed the lotion or the cream. Only use the least amount of medication possible for the shortest amount of time to avoid side effects, such as skin thinning and irritation.
Is clotrimazole a antibiotic? ›The antifungal antibiotic, clotrimazole, inhibits chloride secretion by human intestinal T84 cells via blockade of distinct basolateral K+ conductances.
Can you apply clotrimazole at night? ›Pessaries and internal cream work best at night. If you're using the external cream and you forget to put it on, use it as soon as possible and continue putting it on 2 to 3 times a day as usual.
What diseases does clotrimazole cure? ›- Athlete's foot.
- Ringworm.
- Fungal nail infection.
Skin infections caused by viruses usually result in red welts or blisters that can be itchy and/or painful. Meanwhile, fungal infections usually present with a red, scaly and itchy rash with occasional pustules.
What are adverse reactions to betamethasone topical? ›- burning, itching, irritation, stinging, redness, or dryness of the skin.
- acne.
- unwanted hair growth.
- skin color changes.
- bruising or shiny skin.
- tiny red bumps or rash around the mouth.
- small white or red bumps on the skin.
Check with your doctor right away if you have a skin rash, blistering, burning, crusting, dryness, flaking of the skin, itching, scaling, severe redness, stinging, swelling, or irritation on the skin. Do not use cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated areas.
Can you use too much clotrimazole and betamethasone? ›
Using too much of this medicine or using it for a long time may increase your risk of having adrenal gland problems. The risk is greater for children and patients who use large amounts for a long time.
What is the adverse effect of betamethasone? ›However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
What is the most common side effect of topical steroid? ›The most common side effect of topical corticosteroids is a burning or stinging sensation when the medicine is applied. However, this usually improves as your skin gets used to the treatment. Less common side effects can include: worsening or spreading of a skin infection you already have.
Why is betamethasone banned in the US? ›Betamethasone is a corticosteroid, meaning it's a man-made steroid that resembles cortisol, a natural hormone produced by the adrenal gland. While legal as a therapeutic aid for horses, it is illegal when found in the blood on race day because it's considered a possible performance-enhancer.
How long can you use clotrimazole and betamethasone dipropionate cream? ›Treatment for 2 weeks on the groin or on the body, and for 4 weeks on the feet is recommended. The use of Clotrimazole and Betamethasone Dipropionate Cream for longer than 4 weeks is not recommended for any condition. Prolonged use of Clotrimazole and Betamethasone Dipropionate Cream may lead to unwanted side effects.