This leaflet provides essential information for parents and carers on the appropriate use of clotrimazole medicine in children. The guidance provided may differ from manufacturer information, as it is specifically tailored for pediatric use, whereas manufacturer instructions typically relate to adults.
It is crucial to read this leaflet carefully to ensure the correct administration and duration of treatment for your child's fungal infection.
Understanding Fungal Infections in Children
Your child has an infection caused by a fungus. It is important to understand that some of the fungus may remain even after the visible signs of infection have subsided. Therefore, it is imperative that you continue to apply clotrimazole exactly as prescribed by your child's doctor. This consistent application is vital to ensure that all fungi are eradicated, thereby preventing the infection from recurring. Do not stop the treatment early, even if the symptoms appear to have resolved.
If you have any concerns or questions regarding the treatment, please do not hesitate to speak with your child’s doctor or pharmacist.
Dosage and Application Instructions
Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage of Clotrimazole for your child. If you have purchased the medicine over the counter, carefully follow the instructions provided on the packaging.
General Application Guidelines:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying the cream, ointment, or spray.
- Gently squeeze a length of cream onto your finger.
- Do not rub the cream/ointment hard into the skin, as this may cause irritation.
- Apply the cream, ointment, or spray to all areas of skin affected by the fungal infection.
Specific Application Instructions:
For Ear Infections:
If your child needs to have their head tilted to one side, place the tip of the dropper just inside the ear hole. Try to avoid touching the nozzle to the ear itself.
Vaginal Pessaries and Cream:
Vaginal pessaries are not commonly prescribed for children. Treatment typically involves cream. If you have any concerns regarding vaginal preparations, please consult your child’s doctor or pharmacist.
Pessaries and cream may be supplied with an applicator. Intravaginal preparations, especially those requiring an applicator, should generally be avoided in young girls who are not sexually active, unless no alternative treatment is available.
If using an applicator for pessaries, insert the pessary as far up the vagina as is comfortable.
Frequency of Application:
- Twice a day: This typically means once in the morning and once in the evening.
- Three times a day: This usually involves application in the morning, early afternoon, and at bedtime.
- Single dose: Insert one pessary at night as a single dose.
Duration of Treatment
The medicine should begin to show effectiveness within the first week of use. It is crucial to continue applying the cream, ointment, or spray to the affected skin or ear for at least 14 days after the infection has disappeared. This extended period is necessary to ensure all fungi are killed, as it takes time to eliminate the infection completely.
If applying vaginal cream, continue the treatment for 1-3 days as directed.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose or Give Too Much
If you miss a dose, wait until the next scheduled dose. It is unlikely that giving an extra dose of Clotrimazole by mistake will cause harm. However, if you are concerned that you may have administered too much medication, contact your doctor or local NHS services for advice.
Potential Side Effects
Occasional local irritation may occur, which can include a mild burning sensation, areas of redness, and itching. There may be other side effects not listed here. If you notice anything unusual and are concerned, please contact your doctor.
Important Considerations
It is vital that your child completes the entire course of treatment as prescribed. If your child's fungal infections repeatedly return, they may require a different medication. Only administer this medicine to your child. Ensure you always have an adequate supply of the medicine and check that the medicines at home have not passed their ‘use by’ date.
If you are uncertain whether the medicine is working, contact your doctor but continue the treatment as usual in the meantime.
This leaflet is based on information from the British National Formulary for Children. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy and currency, medicines can be used in various ways for different patients. Always seek the advice of your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure about any aspect of the treatment.
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