Why is this medication prescribed?

Mycelex is a brand name for the antifungal medication clotrimazole. It is typically prescribed to treat various fungal infections, primarily those caused by Candida species, such as:

• Vaginal Yeast Infections: Mycelex is available in various forms, including vaginal creams, suppositories, and tablets. It is often prescribed to treat vaginal yeast infections (vaginal candidiasis) in women. The medication helps relieve symptoms such as itching, burning, and discharge associated with these infections.
• Oral Thrush: Clotrimazole lozenges or mouth rinses may be prescribed to treat oral thrush, a fungal infection of the mouth and throat caused by Candida. This is especially common in individuals with weakened immune systems or those taking certain medications like corticosteroids or antibiotics.
• Skin Infections: Clotrimazole cream or lotion can be prescribed to treat fungal skin infections, such as athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), and ringworm (tinea corporis). It helps alleviate itching, redness, and other symptoms associated with these conditions.

How should this medicine be used?

Mycelex is a brand name for clotrimazole, an antifungal medication that is used to treat various fungal infections, primarily those affecting the skin, mouth, and vaginal area. It is available in various forms, including topical creams, lotions, and oral troches (lozenges). Here’s how Mycelex should be used:

Topical Cream or Lotion:

• • Wash and thoroughly dry the affected area before applying the cream or lotion.
  • Apply a thin layer of Mycelex cream or lotion to the affected area(s).
  • Rub it in gently and ensure that it covers the entire affected area.
  • Wash your hands after applying unless the hands are the affected area.
  • Use as directed by your healthcare provider, typically 2-3 times daily for 2-4 weeks, or as prescribed.

Oral Troches (Lozenges):

• • Place the troche in your mouth and allow it to dissolve slowly. Do not chew or swallow it whole.
  • Follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
  • Usually, it’s prescribed for oral thrush, and the typical dose is one troche five times a day.

It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions precisely when using Mycelex. If you have any questions or concerns about the proper use of this medication, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Other uses for this medicine

Mycelex (clotrimazole) is primarily used to treat fungal infections. It may be used for various fungal infections, including:

• Skin Infections: Mycelex can be used to treat fungal skin infections like athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm.
• Oral Thrush: It is used as a troche to treat oral thrush, which is a fungal infection of the mouth and throat.
• Vaginal Yeast Infections: Clotrimazole is available in vaginal cream or suppository form to treat vaginal yeast infections.

Please note that Mycelex should only be used for the specific fungal infection it is prescribed for. It is not effective against bacterial or viral infections.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before using Mycelex, it’s important to consider the following precautions:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have had an allergic reaction to clotrimazole or any other antifungal medication in the past.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Mycelex with your healthcare provider.
• Other Medications: Let your healthcare provider know about any other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as some drugs may interact with Mycelex.
• Avoid Contact with Eyes: When using topical Mycelex products, be careful to avoid contact with your eyes, as it can cause irritation. If accidental contact occurs, rinse your eyes with water immediately.
• Skin Irritation: If you experience skin irritation, redness, or an allergic reaction while using Mycelex, stop using it and consult your healthcare provider.
• Incomplete Treatment: It’s essential to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if your symptoms improve before the medication is finished. Failure to do so may result in the infection returning.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations and read the medication’s label for specific instructions and warnings regarding Mycelex. If you have any concerns or questions, consult with a healthcare professional.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are typically no specific dietary instructions you need to follow when using Mycelex (clotrimazole) for topical or oral treatment of fungal infections. However, here are some general guidelines to consider:

1. Topical Mycelex (Cream or Lotion):
   • You can continue with your regular diet as there are no dietary restrictions associated with the use of topical Mycelex.
2. Oral Mycelex (Troches/Lozenges):
   • For oral troches, it’s best to avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after using the troche to allow it to dissolve and have its intended effect.

As clotrimazole is primarily applied topically or used orally, it does not typically interact with food or require any dietary adjustments.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Topical Cream or Lotion: If you miss an application, apply it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the time for your next scheduled application, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Oral Troches (Lozenges): If you forget to take a troche, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Mycelex (clotrimazole), when used as directed, is generally considered safe and well-tolerated. However, like any medication, it can potentially cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects of Mycelex are usually mild and may include:

Topical Mycelex (Cream or Lotion) for Skin Infections:

• • Skin irritation (itching, burning, redness)
  • Allergic reactions, such as rash or hives (less common)
  • Dry skin
  • Peeling or blistering (rare)

Oral Mycelex (Troches/Lozenges) for Oral Thrush:

• • Irritation of the mouth or throat
  • Nausea or stomach upset (uncommon)
  • Unpleasant taste in the mouth
  • Vomiting or diarrhea (rare)

It’s important to note that serious side effects from the proper use of Mycelex are relatively rare. However, if you experience any severe or unusual side effects while using Mycelex, you should contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Additionally, if you are using Mycelex for a vaginal yeast infection, topical irritation or burning may occur. If these symptoms persist or worsen, discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider.

Some people may be allergic to clotrimazole and could experience an allergic reaction. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

If you have concerns about the potential side effects of Mycelex or experience any unusual symptoms while using it, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and, if necessary, recommend alternative treatments.

It’s also important to follow the prescribed dosage and treatment duration to minimize the risk of side effects and to complete the full course of treatment as directed by your healthcare provider, even if your symptoms improve before finishing the medication.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage:

• Store Mycelex products (cream, lotion, troches, etc.) at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture.
• Keep the medication out of the reach of children and pets.
• Follow any specific storage instructions provided on the product’s packaging or by your pharmacist.

Disposal:

• Dispose of Mycelex products that are expired or are no longer needed according to local guidelines or medication disposal programs.
• Do not flush Mycelex down the toilet or drain unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider or the medication’s label.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In the case of accidental ingestion of oral troches or an overdose of Mycelex, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center.
• Symptoms of an overdose or excessive oral intake may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, or other adverse effects.

What other information should I know

• Inform all your healthcare providers about any other medications, supplements, or over-the-counter drugs you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
• If your symptoms do not improve or worsen while using Mycelex, contact your healthcare provider.
• Do not use Mycelex for conditions other than what it is prescribed for.
• Complete the full course of treatment as directed by your healthcare provider, even if your symptoms improve before finishing the medication.
• Do not share Mycelex with others unless instructed to do so by a healthcare professional.
• If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and dosing schedule carefully to ensure the best results and minimize the risk of side effects.

Always keep the packaging and any written instructions that come with Mycelex for reference. If you have any questions or concerns about the medication, its storage, or its proper use, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider or pharmacist for clarification and guidance.