Candid-B Cream (clotrimazole, beclometasone) is a topical treatment for moderate fungal infections of the skin. In addition to killing fungi, the medication has anti-inflammatory properties that alleviates the swelling, itching, burning, and other symptoms associated with such infections.

This product contains two active ingredients:

• Clotrimazole is an azole antifungal medication that inhibits the growth and spread of a variety of fungi, including Candida.
• Beclometasone is a potent corticosteroid that inhibits immune system response, thus alleviating disruptive symptoms like itching, burning, swelling, and so forth.

Combined the above ingredients combat a fungal infection while minimizing or completely eliminating symptoms. Most infections are completely resolved within two to four weeks of starting treatment, though some will also require other antifungal treatments.

When to Use---and Not Use---Candid-B Cream

This product is similar to, but distinct from, Candid Cream and Candid Mouth Paint. Candid Cream kills fungi but does not contain an anti-inflammatory so will not quickly address other symptoms; it is ideal for mild fungal infections. Candid Mouth Paint is specially formulated for use in the mouth; both Candid-B Cream and Candid Cream should not be used inside the mouth.

None of these products should be used on the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, or inside the vagina or rectum. In treating a fungal infection of the vagina or rectum either oral tablets or vaginal/rectal suppositories are also prescribed. Candid-B Cream can also be utilized in surrounding (non-mucous membrane) areas to help control symptoms and prevent further spread of fungi.

Candid-B Cream is also not ideal for fungal infections of the scalp or nails. Special shampoos are available for scalp infections. Fungal nail infections are notoriously difficult to treat; medicated nail paints and/or oral antifungals are preferred for these infections, and treatment often spans months.

Candid-B Cream is ideal for:

• Jock itch
• Athlete's foot
• Ringworm
• Vaginal thrush (external only)
• Penile thrush (external only)
• Other Candidiasis

Though off-label in many locations, Candid-B Cream is also sometimes used to treat relatively mild allergic reactions of the skin even when a fungal infection is not present.

Application

Candid-B Cream is easy to use; simply apply enough to cover the affected area and rub it in until mostly absorbed. Application is typically twice per day, though doctor instructions may vary. The affected area should be washed and dried prior to application, and hands washed after application.

Do not cover treated areas with tight or airtight dressings or clothing. Do not use another medicated cream on the same area unless instructed to do so by a doctor.

Treatment typically lasts two to four weeks, depending on the type and severity of the infection. Most patients feel completely healed before then; treatment should continue for a minimum of two weeks or for as long as a doctor instructed regardless of feeling fine. Ending treatment too early can contribute to resistant fungi.

There is an exception for the two-week rule; use on the face. As Candid-B cream does contain a corticosteroid, use on the face is generally not advisable as it can produce uncomfortable and unsightly side effects quickly, such as thinning of the skin. However, occasionally a doctor will recommend its use on the face; in these cases, treatment should not exceed three consecutive days.

Side Effects

As a topical treatment Candid-B Cream is unlikely to produce side effects in the same severity as when the medication is taken orally, but it is still a risk. Common side effects occur at the application site, including:

• Stinging
• Small bumps
• Redness
• Tenderness
• Flaking skin

The above typically fade within moments of application and are not cause for concern unless persistant or severe.

More concerning side effects are quite rare but warrant the attention of a doctor:

• Excessive hair growth
• Acne
• Thin or discolored skin
• Blistering, peeling, or oozing skin
• Vision problems
• Severe headache
• Increased thirst

Candid-B Cream should not be applied to broken skin, or infections other than fungal.