Clotrimazole 1% w/w: uses, price & cheaper substitutes
Common uses: Ringworm (daad) on the body, groin (jock itch) and scalp edges; Athlete's foot – itchy, peeling skin between the toes, common in the monsoon.
Listed MRPs range from ₹0.96 to ₹3.22 per g across 5 listings.
Price comparison
| Brand | Manufacturer | Pack | MRP | ₹ / g | As on |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clotrimazole Cream IP 1% w/wJan Aushadhi | Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP) | 15 g | ₹14.44 | ₹0.96 | 19 October 2026 |
| Clodoc 1% Cream | Morepen Laboratories Ltd | 15 g | ₹45.66 | ₹3.04 | 19 October 2026 |
| Canazole Cream | Lupin Ltd | 15 g | ₹46.55 | ₹3.10 | 19 October 2026 |
| Surfaz Cream | Franco-Indian Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd | 15 g | ₹47.58 | ₹3.17 | 19 October 2026 |
| Candid Gold Cream | Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 50 g | ₹161.18 | ₹3.22 | 19 October 2026 |
MRPs as printed/listed on the date shown; actual price may vary.
Uses
- Ringworm (daad) on the body, groin (jock itch) and scalp edges.
- Athlete's foot – itchy, peeling skin between the toes, common in the monsoon.
- Fungal rash in skin folds (under the breasts, armpits, groin) and nappy rash with fungal infection.
- Thrush on the skin, penis or around the vagina (external itching).
How to take it
Wash and dry the affected skin, then apply a thin layer of cream – about half a centimetre of cream covers an area the size of your palm – 2 or 3 times a day. Wash your hands before and after. Continue for 2 to 4 weeks depending on the infection, and keep applying for about 1 to 2 weeks after the rash looks clear so it does not come back. Keep the area dry, change socks and underwear daily and do not share towels. Avoid the eyes, mouth and lips. See a doctor if there is no improvement after a few weeks, if the rash spreads or keeps returning, or if you have diabetes.
Side effects
Common
- Mild redness, itching or irritation where applied.
- Burning or stinging for a few minutes after applying.
- Peeling of the skin.
Serious
Stop and get medical help urgently if you notice any of these.
- Severe allergic reaction – widespread rash, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing (rare).
- Blistering or worsening rash – stop and see a doctor.
- Infection spreading, becoming painful or oozing pus despite 2 weeks of use – it may not be fungal; see a doctor.
Safety information
Alcohol
Alcohol does not affect a cream applied to the skin.
Pregnancy
Clotrimazole cream can usually be used in pregnancy and while breastfeeding, but check with a doctor or pharmacist first. If applied on the breasts, wash it off before feeding.
Kidney problems
Very little is absorbed through the skin; no kidney precautions are needed.
Liver problems
Very little is absorbed through the skin; no liver precautions are needed.
Children
Most children can use it for ringworm and athlete's foot. Ask a doctor before using it on a baby's nappy rash or for thrush in anyone 15 or younger.
Missed dose
Apply it as soon as you remember, then carry on with the usual routine. Do not apply extra to make up.
Interactions
- Latex condoms and diaphragms – clotrimazole cream can weaken latex, so they may not protect you for at least 5 days after use in the genital area.
- Other creams on the same area (steroid creams, antibiotic creams) – ask a pharmacist before layering them; combination creams like Candid-B contain a steroid and should not be used long term.
- Tacrolimus ointment – tell your doctor if you use both.
Frequently asked questions
What is Candid cream used for?
Candid (clotrimazole 1%) treats fungal skin infections – ringworm, jock itch, athlete's foot, fungal rash in skin folds and skin thrush. It does not work on bacterial infections or eczema.
How many days should I apply clotrimazole cream?
Apply 2 or 3 times a day for 2 to 4 weeks, and continue for a week or two after the rash looks clear to stop it coming back. See a doctor if it is not improving after a few weeks.
Candid cream vs Candid-B cream – which should I use?
Candid contains only clotrimazole. Candid-B adds a steroid, which calms itching fast but can make fungal infection spread if used for long and causes skin thinning. Use plain clotrimazole unless a doctor prescribes the combination.
Can I use Surfaz cream in pregnancy?
Clotrimazole cream can usually be used in pregnancy, but check with your doctor or pharmacist first, especially for use in the genital area.
Why does my ringworm keep coming back after using Candid?
Common reasons are stopping too early, moisture and tight clothing, reinfection from towels or family members, or earlier use of steroid creams. Treat for the full course, keep the area dry and see a dermatologist if it returns.
Can clotrimazole cream be used on the face or private parts?
It can be used on the face (avoiding eyes and mouth) and on external genital skin. For vaginal thrush, pessaries or internal cream are used instead – ask a doctor.
Does Candid cream need a prescription?
No. Clotrimazole 1% cream is sold over the counter in India. See a doctor if the infection is widespread, on the scalp or nails, or not improving.
Does clotrimazole cream affect condoms?
Yes. It can weaken latex condoms and diaphragms, so they may not work for at least 5 days after you apply the cream in the genital area.
Sources
- NHS – Clotrimazole (19 October 2026)
- NPPA Pharma Sahi Daam (ceiling prices) (19 October 2026)
- PMBI Jan Aushadhi Product & MRP List (19 October 2026)
Medyzen Editorial Team · Last updated
This page is general information, not medical advice. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without asking a doctor or pharmacist. Terms