Description:

Candid Cream 20g is a topical antifungal medication containing clotrimazole. It is used to treat fungal skin infections such as ringworm (tinea corporis), athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), pityriasis versicolor, and cutaneous candidiasis. It works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes, leading to increased membrane permeability and fungal cell death. It is effective for superficial dermatophyte and yeast infections of the skin.

Prescription:

Over-the-counter (OTC) for most superficial fungal infections.

Therapeutic Category:

Topical antifungal / Imidazole derivative (for dermatophyte and candidal skin infections).

Active Ingredients/Composition:

Active ingredient: Clotrimazole BP 1% w/w (10 mg per gram). Base: Cream vehicle (white, non-greasy cream with emollients and preservatives).

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant: 1% w/w cream in 20g tube (standard strength for topical fungal treatment; also available in 15g or 30g tubes in some markets).

Consume Type:

Topical (cream; applied externally to the affected skin area).

Directions/Usage: Clean and dry the affected area thoroughly. Apply a thin layer of the cream to the affected skin and a small margin of surrounding healthy skin 2–3 times daily. Continue treatment for at least 2 weeks after symptoms disappear to prevent recurrence (usually 2–4 weeks total for most infections). Wash hands after application unless treating the hands. Do not cover with occlusive dressings unless advised.

Common Side Effects:

• Mild local irritation, burning, stinging, or redness at the application site
• Itching
• Rarely: Allergic contact dermatitis or worsening of symptoms Most side effects are mild and transient.

Package Type:

Aluminium collapsible tube of 20g (with screw cap; often in a carton box with patient information).

Storage Advice: Store at room temperature (below 25–30°C), in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep tightly closed. Keep out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• For external use only; avoid contact with eyes, mouth, or mucous membranes.
• Do not use on broken skin or open wounds without medical advice.
• Contraindicated in known hypersensitivity to clotrimazole or other imidazoles.
• If no improvement after 4 weeks or if condition worsens, consult a doctor (may indicate resistance or misdiagnosis).
• Pregnancy/breastfeeding: Use only if clearly needed (limited systemic absorption).
• Report severe irritation or allergic symptoms promptly.

Product Substitutes: Other clotrimazole 1% creams in Ghana: Candid Cream (Glenmark original in some regions), Canesten (Bayer), or generic clotrimazole creams from various importers. Alternatives: Miconazole cream, terbinafine cream, or ketoconazole cream depending on the infection. Consult a dermatologist or pharmacist for suitable options.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country of Origin:

India.