Lotrisone is a prescription-only topical combination medication formulated to treat a range of fungal skin infections, such as athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm. It uniquely combines an antifungal agent, clotrimazole, with a potent corticosteroid, betamethasone dipropionate, to not only eradicate the underlying fungal cause but also provide rapid relief from associated inflammation, itching, and redness. This dual mechanism makes it a highly effective solution for severe or inflamed fungal infections where symptom control is as critical as microbial eradication.

Features

• Active Ingredients: Each gram contains 10 mg clotrimazole (1%) and 0.643 mg betamethasone dipropionate (equivalent to 0.5 mg betamethasone) (0.05%).
• Formulation: Available as a smooth, white-to-off-white cream or lotion for easy topical application.
• Mechanism of Action: Clotrimazole works by disrupting the cell membrane of susceptible fungi, leading to cell death; betamethasone is a high-potency corticosteroid that suppresses inflammatory and immune responses.
• Prescription Status: Requires a healthcare provider’s prescription to ensure appropriate diagnosis and use.
• Packaging: Typically supplied in 15 g or 45 g tubes or bottles, with precise labeling for dosing.

Benefits

• Provides comprehensive treatment by targeting both the infection and its inflammatory symptoms simultaneously.
• Offers rapid relief from discomfort, including itching, burning, and redness, often within the first few applications.
• Reduces the risk of infection spread and recurrence through effective antifungal action.
• Minimizes the potential for scarring or skin damage from excessive scratching due to intense pruritus.
• Convenient twice-daily dosing supports adherence to treatment regimens.
• Suitable for a variety of fungal skin infections, offering broad-spectrum efficacy.

Common use

Lotrisone is primarily indicated for the topical treatment of tinea pedis (athlete’s foot), tinea cruris (jock itch), and tinea corporis (ringworm) caused by susceptible strains of fungi such as Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, and Epidermophyton floccosum. It is especially beneficial in cases where significant inflammation, erythema, or pruritus is present. Use is generally limited to a maximum of two weeks for tinea cruris and tinea corporis and four weeks for tinea pedis, unless directed otherwise by a healthcare provider, to minimize the risk of corticosteroid-related adverse effects.

Dosage and direction

Apply a thin layer of Lotrisone cream or lotion to the affected skin area and gently rub in. Use twice daily, in the morning and the evening, or as directed by your physician. The treatment area should be clean and dry before application. Wash hands thoroughly after applying, unless the hands are the treatment site. Duration of therapy should not exceed two weeks for groin or body infections and four weeks for foot infections, due to the potential for systemic absorption of the corticosteroid component with prolonged use. Do not cover with occlusive dressings unless specifically instructed by a healthcare provider.

Precautions

• For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, nose, and other mucous membranes.
• Do not use on diaper dermatitis or in the diaper area, as occlusive conditions increase systemic absorption.
• Use with caution on the face, groin, or axillae, where skin is thinner and more permeable.
• Discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if irritation develops.
• Prolonged use may lead to skin atrophy, striae, telangiectasia, or adrenal suppression.
• Not recommended for use in children under 17 years of age unless under strict medical supervision.
• If no improvement is seen after the prescribed treatment period, reevaluation by a physician is necessary.

Contraindications

Lotrisone is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to clotrimazole, betamethasone, other corticosteroids, or any component of the formulation. It should not be used for cutaneous infections caused by organisms not susceptible to clotrimazole, such as bacteria or viruses. Contraindicated in the treatment of rosacea, perioral dermatitis, and viral skin diseases (e.g., herpes simplex, chickenpox). Should not be applied to ulcerated or broken skin unless specifically indicated and monitored.

Possible side effect

Common side effects may include burning, itching, irritation, dryness, or redness at the application site. Less frequently, folliculitis, hypertrichosis, hypopigmentation, or allergic contact dermatitis may occur. With prolonged or excessive use, systemic absorption of the corticosteroid may lead to manifestations of hypercorticism, such as skin thinning, striae, acneiform eruptions, or adrenal suppression. If severe irritation, blistering, swelling, or signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., rash, hives, difficulty breathing) occur, discontinue use and seek medical attention promptly.

Drug interaction

No specific drug interactions have been reported with topical Lotrisone. However, as with all corticosteroids, there is a theoretical risk of enhanced systemic corticosteroid effects if used concurrently with other systemic or potent topical corticosteroids. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are using, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not apply extra medication to make up for a missed dose.

Overdose

Topical overdose is unlikely but may occur with excessive application over large body surface areas or under occlusive dressings, potentially leading to systemic corticosteroid effects such as hypercorticism or adrenal suppression. Symptoms may include weight gain, swelling, hypertension, or muscle weakness. In case of suspected overdose, discontinue use and seek medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20–25°C or 68–77°F). Do not freeze. Keep the tube or bottle tightly closed and away from excessive heat or moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.

Reviews

(Note: Fictional examples based on typical patient feedback patterns.)

• “As a dermatologist, I reserve Lotrisone for cases of tinea with significant inflammation. The combination provides rapid symptomatic relief while effectively treating the fungus. Patient compliance and satisfaction are generally high when used appropriately.” — Dr. Eleanor Vance, MD
• “I had a severe case of athlete’s foot that wasn’t responding to OTC antifungals. My doctor prescribed Lotrisone, and within days the itching and redness were gone. Finished the two-week course and the infection cleared completely.” — Mark T., verified patient
• “Effective but must be used as directed. I appreciate that it addresses both the cause and the symptoms. Would recommend only under a doctor’s supervision due to the steroid component.” — Linda K., healthcare professional
• “Quick relief from jock itch discomfort. The cream absorbed well without greasiness. Important to follow the duration limits to avoid side effects.” — James R., verified patient