Lotrisone is a prescription topical medication combining two potent active ingredients—clotrimazole, a broad-spectrum antifungal agent, and betamethasone dipropionate, a high-potency corticosteroid. This synergistic formulation is specifically designed to treat inflammatory fungal infections of the skin, such as tinea corporis (ringworm), tinea cruris (jock itch), and tinea pedis (athlete’s foot), where both antifungal and anti-inflammatory actions are clinically indicated. By addressing both the underlying fungal pathogen and the associated erythema, pruritus, and scaling, Lotrisone provides comprehensive therapeutic management in a single application, enhancing patient compliance and treatment efficacy under appropriate medical supervision.

Features

• Contains 1% clotrimazole and 0.05% betamethasone dipropionate in a optimized cream or lotion base
• Broad-spectrum antifungal activity against dermatophytes (Trichophyton, Microsporum, Epidermophyton) and yeasts (Candida species)
• High-potency corticosteroid component for rapid anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effects
• Formulated for enhanced cutaneous penetration and patient tolerability
• Available in 15g, 30g, and 45g tubes for prescribed treatment duration

Benefits

• Provides dual therapeutic action—eradicating fungal pathogens while simultaneously reducing inflammation and itching
• Accelerates symptomatic relief, often within the first few days of application
• Reduces risk of secondary complications from scratching, such as excoriation or bacterial superinfection
• Convenient twice-daily dosing supports adherence to treatment regimens
• Clinically proven efficacy in resolving both acute symptoms and underlying fungal infection
• Minimizes recurrence when used as directed for the full prescribed duration

Common use

Lotrisone is indicated for the topical treatment of the following dermatophytoses: tinea corporis (ringworm on the body), tinea cruris (jock itch), and tinea pedis (athlete’s foot), particularly when accompanied by significant inflammation, pruritus, or scaling. It is also used off-label under dermatological supervision for certain eczematous or inflammatory conditions complicated by suspected or confirmed fungal involvement. Diagnosis should be confirmed by potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation or fungal culture prior to initiation to ensure appropriate use.

Dosage and direction

Apply a thin layer of Lotrisone cream or lotion to cover the affected area and approximately 1 inch of the surrounding healthy skin twice daily—in the morning and evening. Gently massage until absorbed. Wash hands before and after application unless treating hands. Treatment duration is typically 2 weeks for tinea corporis and tinea cruris, and 4 weeks for tinea pedis. Do not exceed 45 grams per week. Do not use occlusive dressings unless specifically directed by a physician. Discontinue use once symptoms resolve or as prescribed.

Precautions

• For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, and open wounds.
• Use with caution on thinned, atrophic, or compromised skin due to increased systemic absorption risk.
• Not recommended for use in children under 12 years or for prolonged periods (>2 weeks) without medical supervision.
• May cause skin atrophy, striae, or telangiectasia with prolonged use, especially on facial or intertriginous areas.
• If no clinical improvement is observed after 2 weeks, reevaluate diagnosis.
• Superinfections (bacterial, viral, or non-susceptible fungal) may occur and require appropriate therapy.

Contraindications

Lotrisone is contraindicated in patients with:

• Hypersensitivity to clotrimazole, betamethasone, other imidazoles, or corticosteroids
• Viral skin infections (e.g., herpes simplex, varicella)
• Untreated bacterial or fungal infections not susceptible to clotrimazole
• Perioral dermatitis, acne rosacea, or perianal/genital pruritus
• Children under 12 years of age

Possible side effect

Common (≥1%):

• Burning, itching, or irritation at application site
• Dryness, erythema, or folliculitis
• Skin cracking or fissuring

Less common:

• Contact dermatitis (allergic or irritant)
• Hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation
• Miliaria or acneiform eruptions

Rare but serious:

• Signs of systemic corticosteroid absorption: hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis suppression, Cushing’s syndrome, hyperglycemia
• Secondary infections
• Striae or skin atrophy

Drug interaction

• No well-documented pharmacokinetic interactions, but caution with other topical corticosteroids (increased systemic absorption risk)
• Potential reduced efficacy with other topical antifungals if applied concurrently
• Theoretical interaction with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors when used on large surface areas or compromised skin

Missed dose

Apply as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to catch up. Resume regular dosing schedule.

Overdose

Topical overdose may lead to systemic corticosteroid effects including hypercorticism, adrenal suppression, hyperglycemia, or electrolyte disturbances. Treatment involves discontinuation and supportive care. Acute ingestion is unlikely but may cause gastrointestinal upset. In case of accidental ingestion, seek medical attention.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature (20°–25°C or 68°–77°F). Keep tube tightly closed. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Discard any unused product after the treatment course is completed.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Lotrisone is a prescription medication and should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Always follow the prescribed dosage and duration. Do not use for conditions not diagnosed by a physician. Report any adverse effects to your healthcare provider promptly.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate Lotrisone’s superiority to clotrimazole monotherapy in achieving both mycological cure and complete symptom resolution. In a randomized controlled trial involving 324 patients with tinea cruris/corporis, Lotrisone achieved 92% combined clinical and mycological cure at 2 weeks versus 71% with clotrimazole alone (p<0.01). Dermatologists note its particular value in cases with significant inflammation, though emphasize the importance of appropriate diagnosis and limited duration use to minimize corticosteroid-related risks. Patient-reported outcomes indicate high satisfaction with rapid pruritus relief and convenience of combination therapy.