Fungal infections are common, and they can show up almost anywhere on your body. Fortunately, most can be treated with a topical antifungal cream.
One such cream is Clarus Antifungal Cream. The active ingredient in Clarus is tolnaftate, and it’s used to treat conditions like athlete’s foot, ringworm, and jock itch.
This article discusses what you should know before using Clarus antifungal cream, including how to use it, what side effects it may cause, and what precautions to take.
What’s in it and what’s it for?
Active ingredient: Tolnaftate
Clarus Antifungal Cream contains 1% tolnaftate, which is an antifungal medication. It’s effective against many kinds of fungal infections.
Uses
Clarus is made to treat:
- Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis). It relieves itching, scaling, cracking, and discomfort. Be sure to apply it carefully between your toes.
- Ringworm (tinea corporis). It reduces redness, soreness, and irritation.
You can also use it every day to prevent athlete’s foot from coming back.
Dosage and administration
Before applying Clarus Antifungal Cream, make sure to wash and dry the affected area. Using a natural remedy like castor oil can also help to keep the area clean, removing any dirt or debris so the medication can absorb properly.
Apply a thin layer to completely cover the area twice daily — once in the morning and once at night.
Keep using the cream for the full treatment time, even if your symptoms improve. For athlete’s foot and ringworm, treatment usually lasts four weeks. If your symptoms don’t get better or get worse after four weeks, talk to your doctor.
Warnings and precautions
Like all medications, Clarus antifungal cream comes with warnings and precautions. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Clarus is for external use only, so be careful to keep it out of your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Don’t use Clarus on a child younger than age 2 unless your doctor has specifically told you to do so. Children should be supervised when using this product.
When to stop using Clarus and talk with a doctor
Stop using Clarus and talk with your doctor if:
- You develop irritation, such as increased redness, swelling, or itching.
- Your infection does not improve after 4 weeks of treatment.
Special considerations
- If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor before using Clarus.
- Keep Clarus out of the reach of children. If a child swallows Clarus, seek immediate medical help or contact a Poison Control Center.
Potential side effects
As with any medicine, Clarus antifungal cream may cause side effects.
Common side effects
The most common side effect is mild skin irritation at the place where you put on the medicine, such as redness, itching, or burning. If you use the aerosol solution, you may have a temporary stinging feeling.
Less common side effects
Some people may be sensitive to butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), an ingredient in some preparations of this medicine. Be aware of potential allergic reactions to inactive ingredients.
When to seek medical attention
If you have any side effects while using tolnaftate topical, especially skin irritation, contact your doctor.
Get medical help right away if you have a severe allergic reaction, such as hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of your face.
Other important information
Here’s some more information you may want to know about Clarus.
- Storage: Store Clarus at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep it in a tightly closed container and away from heat and light.
- Hygiene: Good hygiene can help you avoid fungal infections in the first place. Wear breathable shoes that fit well, and change your shoes and socks every day.
- Scalp and nail infections: Clarus won’t work if you have a fungal infection on your scalp or under your nails. Talk to your doctor about what treatment options are best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Clarus good for toenail fungus?
Clarus Antifungal Cream is often used to treat fungal infections, but its effectiveness for toenail fungus can vary. Toenail fungus is notoriously difficult to treat topically because the nail plate is hard to penetrate. While Clarus may help in some cases, oral antifungal medications or other prescription treatments might be necessary for more severe or persistent toenail infections. It’s best to consult with a doctor or podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment options.
Is Clarus a prescription?
Clarus Antifungal Cream is available over-the-counter without a prescription. This makes it readily accessible for treating various fungal skin infections. However, if your condition doesn’t improve with over-the-counter treatment, it’s always a good idea to seek professional medical advice.
What is the strongest antifungal cream?
The “strongest” antifungal cream depends on the specific fungus causing the infection and individual patient factors. Prescription-strength antifungal creams often contain higher concentrations of active ingredients or different antifungal agents than over-the-counter options. Before you buy, it’s helpful to compare miconazole cream prices. A doctor can evaluate your condition and prescribe the most appropriate and effective antifungal cream for your specific needs.
How long does it take for Clarus to work?
The time it takes for Clarus Antifungal Cream to work can vary depending on the severity and location of the fungal infection. Some people may see improvement within a few days, while others may need several weeks of consistent use. It’s important to follow the directions on the product label and continue using the cream for the full recommended duration, even if your symptoms improve, to ensure complete eradication of the fungus.
Summary
Clarus Antifungal Cream is a topical treatment that can help with common fungal infections. To make sure it works and is safe for you, make sure you use it the way the directions say and watch out for side effects.
If your infection doesn’t get better or if it gets worse, talk to your doctor or another health professional.