Last reviewed 2026-04-23 · How we verify

Clotrimazole troches

Clotrimazole troches work by inhibiting fungal ergosterol synthesis, disrupting the fungal cell membrane and causing cell death.

Clotrimazole troches work by inhibiting fungal ergosterol synthesis, disrupting the fungal cell membrane and causing cell death. Used for Oral candidiasis (oropharyngeal thrush), Oral fungal infections.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Clotrimazole is an azole antifungal that inhibits the cytochrome P450-dependent enzyme lanosterol 14α-demethylase, which is essential for ergosterol synthesis in fungal cell membranes. By depleting ergosterol and allowing toxic sterol precursors to accumulate, the drug compromises membrane integrity and fungal cell viability. The troche formulation delivers the drug topically to oral and pharyngeal tissues for local antifungal effect.

Approved indications

• Oral candidiasis (oropharyngeal thrush)
• Oral fungal infections

Common side effects

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal discomfort
• Altered taste
• Local irritation

Key clinical trials

• Randomized Comparative Study of Fluconazole Versus Clotrimazole Troches in the Prevention of Serious Fungal Infection in Patients With AIDS or Advanced AIDS-Related Complex. (A Nested Study of ACTG 081) (PHASE3)
• Efficacy of Slow Release Clotrimazole Varnish Treating Denture Stomatitis Comparing to Traditional Treatment of Troches (PHASE2)
• Clotrimazole vs. Mycelex® in Patients With Human Insufficiency Virus (HIV) Infection for the Treatment of Oropharyngeal Candidiasis (PHASE3)
• Efficacy and Safety Study of Miconazole Lauriad to Treat Oropharyngeal Candidiasis in HIV Patients (PHASE3)
• A Comparison of the Safety and Effectiveness of Fluconazole or Clotrimazole in the Treatment of Fungal Infections of the Mouth and Throat in Patients With AIDS (NA)

Primary sources

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