Do you have a white coating on the inside of your mouth, on your tongue, that sometimes hurts when you eat or drink? Both babies and adults can get this type of fungal infection in the mouth. In medicine, we call this 'thrush'. So, one of the medicines that doctors often prescribe for this is a tablet called Clotrimazole. But this is not an ordinary tablet that you just take with water. There is a special way to use it. Let's see how to use it exactly and what things we need to be careful about.
Simply put, what is Clotrimazole?
This is an antifungal . This means that this medicine helps prevent and treat infections caused by fungi. This lozenge is especially used to treat a fungal infection called 'thrush' that occurs in the mouth and throat.
One very important thing is that this only works on fungi. It does not cure illnesses caused by bacteria or viruses, such as colds, flu, and coughs.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
It is very important that your doctor knows about your health condition before giving you this medicine. So if any of the things below apply to you, be sure to tell your doctor about it.
- If you have any liver disease .
- If you have previously had an allergic reaction to Clotrimazole or any other medicine, food, dye, or preservative.
- If you are pregnant or hoping to become pregnant .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
Based on this information, the doctor will decide whether this medication is right for you or whether to prescribe another medication.
How exactly do you use this medicine?
This is the most important part. The way you use this pill has a huge impact on achieving successful results.
1. Take it on time: Try to take your medicine at the same time every day, as prescribed by your doctor.
2. Taking out the pill: Keep the pill in the sealed package until you are ready to take it. When taking the pill, open the package carefully with dry hands and take out the pill.
3. Do not use if broken: If the tablet breaks or crumbles, whether during removal or at any other time, do not use it. Throw it away and get a new tablet.
4. Let it dissolve in your mouth: Now place this tablet in your mouth and slowly let it dissolve. Just like sucking on a toffee. Never chew, break, or crush it. It may take about 15-30 minutes for the tablet to completely dissolve.
5. Do not swallow: Swallow the saliva that collects as the tablet dissolves.
6. Complete the prescribed period: Use the medicine for the full number of days that the doctor prescribed. Do not stop taking it even if you feel a little better. If you stop, the infection may come back.
When to give this medicine to small children?
This medicine is sometimes recommended by doctors for children over 3 years of age. However, this should only be done on medical advice . You should be careful to ensure that the child can hold the tablet in their mouth without chewing it.
What are the side effects? Things we should be aware of
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. But most people don't. Let's see what they are.
| Type of side effect | Characteristics and what to do |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. If this happens, stop taking the medicine immediately and see a doctor. |
| Liver injury | Pain in the upper right side of the stomach, loss of appetite, nausea, light-colored stools, dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin, and extreme fatigue. These are very rare, but if you notice them, tell your doctor right away. |
| Side effects that are usually not dangerous, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Mouth or throat discomfort | A slight burning or discomfort in the mouth or throat. |
| Nausea and vomiting | Nausea or vomiting when taking the medicine. |
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a pill, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose. Doing so increases the risk of side effects.
What if I take too much medicine? (Overdose)
If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
How do you store and dispose of the medicine?
- Keep away from children and pets.
- Store at room temperature (between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius). Do not freeze.
- Do not use expired medications. They should be disposed of. Some medications should not be thrown away. Therefore, it is safest to ask your doctor for advice.
Take-Home Message
- Clotrimazole lozenge is a medicine for oral fungal infections (thrush), not for colds or flu.
- Place this tablet in your mouth and let it dissolve slowly. Never chew or swallow it whole.
- Use the medicine for the full number of days prescribed by the doctor. Do not stop halfway.
- If you have liver disease, allergies, or are pregnant/breastfeeding, tell your doctor before taking the medication.
- If you experience severe skin irritation or swelling after taking the medicine, seek medical advice immediately.
- Always keep this medicine safely out of the reach of children.
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