Itchasia

Uses

The confirmed indication for Clotrimazole include:

• All dermatomycoses due to dermatophytes (e.g. Trichophyton species).
• All dermatomycoses due to yeasts (Candida species).
• Dermatomycoses due to moulds and other fungi.
• Skin diseases showing superinfections with these fungi.

To the dermatomycoses listed under 1-4 belong for example, interdigital myocoses (e.g. athlete’s foot), paronychias (associated with nail mycoses), myocoses in skin folds, Candida vulvitis, Candida balanitis, Pityriasis versicolor, erythrasma.

Clotrimazole rectal preparation is used for vaginal itching, burning and discharge associated with recurrent vaginal yeast infections (Vaginal candidiasis) and also in viginitis due to Candida species as well as Mycotic infections complicated by other microorganisms sensitive to the drug.

Clotrimazole Sterile Eye Ointment is used for the treatment of fungal keratitis due to filamentous fungi and Candida species.

Clotrimazole Ear Drop is used for the treatment of fungal infections of the ear.

Zinc is an essential element commonly used for the treatment of patients with documented zinc deficiency.

Zinc can be used for the treatment and prevention of zinc deficiency/its consequences, including stunted growth and acute diarrhea in children, and slowed wound healing. It is also utilized for boosting the immune system, treating the common cold and recurrent ear infections, as well as preventing lower respiratory tract infections .

Itchasia is also used to associated treatment for these conditions: Balanitis candida, Candidiasis, Dermatitis, Dermatomycoses, Ear infection fungal, Erythrasma, Fungal Vaginal Infections, Fungal skin infection, Genital candidiasis, Inflammation, Mixed Vaginal Infections, Oropharyngeal Candidiasis, Pityriasis versicolor, Pyoderma, Ringworm, Skin Infections, Skin candida, Tinea Corporis, Tinea Cruris, Tinea Pedis, Tinea inguinalis, Trichophytosis, Vaginal Candidiasis, Vaginal Mycosis, Vulvitis, Cutaneous candidiasis, Infection mycotic, Susceptible Bacterial Infections, Symptomatic Tinea Corporis caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Trichophyton rubrum, Epidermophyton floccosum, Symptomatic Tinea Cruris caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Trichophyton rubrum, Epidermophyton floccosum, Symptomatic Tinea Pedis caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Trichophyton rubrum, Epidermophyton floccosum, Tinea versicolor caused by Malassezia infectionAnal Fissures, Dermatitis, Eczematous, Dry Skin, Hemorrhoids, Internal, Keratinized Tissue, Pruritus Ani, Pyoderma, Skin Irritation, SplinterCandidiasis, Common Cold, Diaper Dermatitis, Diaper Rash, Eye redness, Iron Deficiency (ID), Ocular Irritation, Skin Irritation, Sunburn, Wilson's Disease, Zinc Deficiency, Dietary and Nutritional Therapies, Dietary supplementation

How Itchasia works

Clotrimazole acts primarily by damaging the permeability barrier in the cell membrane of fungi. Clotrimazole causes inhibition of ergosterol biosynthesis, an essential constituent of fungal cell membranes. If ergosterol synthesis is either completely or partially inhibited, the cell is no longer able to construct an intact and functional cell membrane ,. Because ergosterol directly promotes the growth of fungal cells in a hormone‐like fashion, rapid onset of the above events leads to dose-dependent inhibition of fungal growth .

Though decreased ergosterol, due to the inhibition of lanosterol 14-demethylase (also known as CYP51) is accepted to be primarily responsible for the antimycotic properties of clotrimazole, this drug also shows other pharmacological effects. These include the inhibition of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase, depletion of intracellular calcium, and blocking of calcium‐dependent potassium channels and voltage‐dependent calcium channels . The action of clotrimazole on these targets accounts for other effects of this drug that are separate from its antimycotic activities .

Zinc has three primary biological roles: catalytic, structural, and regulatory. The catalytic and structural role of zinc is well established, and there are various noteworthy reviews on these functions. For example, zinc is a structural constituent in numerous proteins, inclusive of growth factors, cytokines, receptors, enzymes, and transcription factors for different cellular signaling pathways. It is implicated in numerous cellular processes as a cofactor for approximately 3000 human proteins including enzymes, nuclear factors, and hormones .

Zinc promotes resistance to epithelial apoptosis through cell protection (cytoprotection) against reactive oxygen species and bacterial toxins, likely through the antioxidant activity of the cysteine-rich metallothioneins .

In HL-60 cells (promyelocytic leukemia cell line), zinc enhances the up-regulation of A20 mRNA, which, via TRAF pathway, decreases NF-kappaB activation, leading to decreased gene expression and generation of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), IL-1beta, and IL-8 .

There are several mechanisms of action of zinc on acute diarrhea. Various mechanisms are specific to the gastrointestinal system: zinc restores mucosal barrier integrity and enterocyte brush-border enzyme activity, it promotes the production of antibodies and circulating lymphocytes against intestinal pathogens, and has a direct effect on ion channels, acting as a potassium channel blocker of adenosine 3-5-cyclic monophosphate-mediated chlorine secretion. Cochrane researchers examined the evidence available up to 30 September 2016 .

Zinc deficiency in humans decreases the activity of serum thymulin (a hormone of the thymus), which is necessary for the maturation of T-helper cells. T-helper 1 (Th(1)) cytokines are decreased but T-helper 2 (Th(2)) cytokines are not affected by zinc deficiency in humans [A342417].

The change of Th(1) to Th(2) function leads to cell-mediated immune dysfunction. Because IL-2 production (Th(1) cytokine) is decreased, this causes decreased activity of natural-killer-cell (NK cell) and T cytolytic cells, normally involved in killing viruses, bacteria, and malignant cells [A3424].

In humans, zinc deficiency may lead to the generation of new CD4+ T cells, produced in the thymus. In cell culture studies (HUT-78, a Th(0) human malignant lymphoblastoid cell line), as a result of zinc deficiency, nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) activation, phosphorylation of IkappaB, and binding of NF-kappaB to DNA are decreased and this results in decreased Th(1) cytokine production .

In another study, zinc supplementation in human subjects suppressed the gene expression and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and decreased oxidative stress markers [A3424]. In HL-60 cells (a human pro-myelocytic leukemia cell line), zinc deficiency increased the levels of TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, and IL-8 cytokines and mRNA. In such cells, zinc was found to induce A20, a zinc finger protein that inhibited NF-kappaB activation by the tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor pathway. This process decreased gene expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers .

The exact mechanism of zinc in acne treatment is poorly understood. However, zinc is considered to act directly on microbial inflammatory equilibrium and facilitate antibiotic absorption when used in combination with other agents. Topical zinc alone as well as in combination with other agents may be efficacious because of its anti-inflammatory activity and ability to reduce P. acnes bacteria by the inhibition of P. acnes lipases and free fatty acid levels .

Dosage

Itchasia dosage

Topical

Wash skin with soap and water and dry thoroughly. Apply a thin layer of the cream or solution 2-3 times daily and gently massage over affected area as directed by the doctor. For Athlete’s foot, pay special attention to the spaces between the toes. Best results in Athlete's foot and ringworm are usually obtained with 4 weeks use of this product. The cream should be applied two or three times daily for one month or for at least two weeks after the disappearance of all signs of infection. If satisfactory results have not occurred within these times consultation with doctor is essential. For best results, follow directions and continue treatment for length of time indicated. The duration of treatment varies; it depends among other factors on the extent and localization of the disease.

Recommended duration of treatment :

• Dermatomycoses: 3-4 weeks
• Candida vulvitis and candida balanitis: 1-2 weeks
• Erythrasma and pityriasis versicolor (approx.): 3 weeks
• In fungal infection of the feet, to prevent relapses:Treatment should be continued for about 2 weeks beyond the disappearance of all signs of disease.

Clotrimazole cream is odourless, can be washed off and does not stain.

Rectal

First infections: In general, a 3-day treatment is sufficient for Candida vaginitis. On 3 consecutive nights, Clotrimazole 200 mg vaginal preparation is inserted as deeply as possible into the vagina. This is best achieved when lying on one's back with the knees slightly bent.

Re-infections: In general, a 6-day treatment is sufficient. This applies also to mixed infections with the above-mentioned causative organisms. On six consecutive nights, 1 Clotrimazole 100 mgvaginal preparation is inserted as deeply as possible into the vagina. If necessary, 2 Clotrimazole 100 mg(1 in the morning and 1 in the evening) or 1 Clotrimazole 200 mg daily can be used for 6-12 days. Treatment should be timed so as to avoid the menstrual period and be finished before the onset of menstruation. To avoid re-infection, the partner should undergo local treatment with Clotrimazole cream at the same time.

Clotrimazole 500 mg vaginal preparation: Single dose, complete treatment with one vaginal tablet. The tablet should be inserted as deeply as possible into the vagina. This is best achieved when lying on one's back with the knees slightly bent. It is recommended that the treatment should be timed so as to avoid the menstrual period. For prevention of re-infection the partner should be treated locally with Clotrimazole cream at the same time.

Clotrimazolevaginal preparation are colorless and do not stain the underwear.

Eye

Adult: It should be applied thinly and evenly to the conjunctival sac every 4 hours daily or as advised by a physician.

Children: Safety and effectiveness in children have been established for Clotrimazole when used as indicated and in the recommended dosage.

Ear

Instill 2-3 drops of Clarizol Ear Drops in the affected ear two or three times daily.The treatment should be continued for at least two weeks after the disappearance of all signs of infection to prevent re-infection.

For the treatment to become a complete success, reliable and sufficiently long application of Clotrimazole cream is important. The duration of treatment varies; it depends among other factors on the extent and localisation of the disease.

Side Effects

Clotrimazole is generally well tolerated after local application but the few side effects have been reported infrequently like erythema, stinging, blistering, peeling, oedema, pruritus, urticaria and general irritation.

Since there is practically no Clotrimazole absorption through the vaginal skin, no systemic effect is expected. The local tolerance of Clotrimazole vaginal tablet is generally good. Local irritation or burning sensation may occur in a very few cases but these symptoms are not considered harmful.

Rarely patients may experience burning or irritation immediately after applying the ointment.

Toxicity

Symptoms of overdose include erythema, stinging, blistering, peeling, edema, pruritus, urticaria, burning, and general irritation of the skin, and cramps. As with all topical agents, skin sensitization may result .

Oral LD50 (rat): 708 mg/kg; Intraperitoneal LD50 (rat): 445 mg/kg; Subcutaneous LDLO (rat): 10 g/kg; Oral LD50 (mouse): 761 mg/kg; Subcutaneous LDLO (mouse): 10 g/kg; Intraperitoneal LD50 (mouse): 108 mg/kg;

Overdose

This drug poses no risk of acute intoxication, as it is unlikely to occur following a single vaginal or dermal application of an overdose (application over a large area under conditions favorable to absorption) or accidental oral ingestion. There is no specific antidote .

Effects on Fertility

No human studies of the effects of clotrimazole on fertility have been conducted; however, animal studies have not shown any effects on the drug on fertility .

Use in Pregnancy

There are limited data regarding the use of clotrimazole in pregnant women. Animal studies do not show direct or indirect harmful effects on reproduction. Although the topical application of clotrimazole may result in very low serum and tissue levels, the use of clotrimazole topical cream by pregnant women is not recommended unless it is advised by the prescribing physician. Clotrimazole topical cream should not be used in the first trimester of pregnancy unless it is considered by the physician to be essential to patient well-being .

Use in Breastfeeding

Available pharmacodynamic/toxicological studies in animals have shown excretion of clotrimazole/metabolites in breastmilk. Clotrimazole should not be administered during breastfeeding. Although the topical application of clotrimazole has resulted in very low serum and tissue levels, the use of clotrimazole topical cream by lactating women is not recommended unless it recommended by the prescribing physician .

According to the Toxnet database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, the oral LD50 for zinc is close to 3 g/kg body weight, more than 10-fold higher than cadmium and 50-fold higher than mercury .

The LD50 values of several zinc compounds (ranging from 186 to 623 mg zinc/kg/day) have been measured in rats and mice .

Precaution

If local intolerance develops, consider withdrawal of the medicine and institution of appropriate therapy. Clotrimazole solution is not intended for ophthalmic use. Avoid contact with eyes upon topical application. Children 3 yrs. Pregnancy, lactation. If irritation or sensitivity develops with the use of Clotrimazole ointment, treatment should be discontinued.

Interaction

There have been reports of a heat reaction when this medication used concomitantly with Sofradex drops in the ear.

Antagonism with polyene antibiotics.

Volume of Distribution

The topical form is minimally absorbed in the serum and tissues . Clotrimazole is a lipophilic drug , and has been shown to be secreted in breastmilk in animal studies . There are limited data available regarding the volume of distribution following oral troche administration.

A pharmacokinetic study was done in rats to determine the distribution and other metabolic indexes of zinc in two particle sizes. It was found that zinc particles were mainly distributed to organs including the liver, lung, and kidney within 72 hours without any significant difference being found according to particle size or rat gender .

Elimination Route

Because clotrimazole is generally not significantly absorbed, drug interactions are not a major issue with its use .

Zinc is absorbed in the small intestine by a carrier-mediated mechanism . Under regular physiologic conditions, transport processes of uptake do not saturate. The exact amount of zinc absorbed is difficult to determine because zinc is secreted into the gut. Zinc administered in aqueous solutions to fasting subjects is absorbed quite efficiently (at a rate of 60-70%), however, absorption from solid diets is less efficient and varies greatly, dependent on zinc content and diet composition .

Generally, 33% is considered to be the average zinc absorption in humans . More recent studies have determined different absorption rates for various populations based on their type of diet and phytate to zinc molar ratio. Zinc absorption is concentration dependent and increases linearly with dietary zinc up to a maximum rate [L20902].

Additionally zinc status may influence zinc absorption. Zinc-deprived humans absorb this element with increased efficiency, whereas humans on a high-zinc diet show a reduced efficiency of absorption .

Half Life

The half-life of zinc in humans is approximately 280 days .

Clearance

In one study of healthy patients, the clearance of zinc was found to be 0.63 ± 0.39 μg/min .

Elimination Route

Mainly hepatic .

The excretion of zinc through gastrointestinal tract accounts for approximately one-half of all zinc eliminated from the body .

Considerable amounts of zinc are secreted through both biliary and intestinal secretions, however most is reabsorbed. This is an important process in the regulation of zinc balance. Other routes of zinc excretion include both urine and surface losses (sloughed skin, hair, sweat) .

Zinc has been shown to induce intestinal metallothionein, which combines zinc and copper in the intestine and prevents their serosal surface transfer. Intestinal cells are sloughed with approximately a 6-day turnover, and the metallothionein-bound copper and zinc are lost in the stool and are thus not absorbed .

Measurements in humans of endogenous intestinal zinc have primarily been made as fecal excretion; this suggests that the amounts excreted are responsive to zinc intake, absorbed zinc and physiologic need .

In one study, elimination kinetics in rats showed that a small amount of ZnO nanoparticles was excreted via the urine, however, most of the nanoparticles were excreted via the feces .

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding use

Pregnancy:Clotrimazole is recommended during pregnancy only after first consulting a doctor.

Lactation:Because systemic absorption of clotrimazole following topical application is marginal, there should be no risk for the infant during lactation.

Contraindication

Hypersensitivity to clotrimazole.

Acute Overdose

Supportive measures should be taken incase of accidental oral ingestion.

In case of accidental oral ingestion, supportive measures should be taken.

Storage Condition

Store at a cool and dry place. Protect from light. Do not freeze.

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