Lotrisone lotion has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of symptomatic inflammatory tinea pedis, tinea cruris, and tinea corporis due to Epidermophyton floccosum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, and Trichophyton rubrum. Lotrisone contains two compounds - a synthetic corticosteroid (betamethasone dipropionate) and a synthetic antifungal agent (clotrimazole) - that target different aspects of fungal infection. Clotrimazole targets the cause of the infection by inhibiting the growth of fungus on the skin, whereas betamethasone reduces fungal infection symptoms such as itching, swelling, and redness.

Side effects of Lotrisone may include (but are not limited to) the following:

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• Blistering
• Hives
• Infection
• Irritated skin
• Itching
• Peeling
• Skin eruptions and rash
• Tingling sensation

Less common side effects may include the following:

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• Acne
• Burning
• Excessive hair growth
• Inflamed hair follicles

Clotrimazole is a broad-spectrum, antifungal agent used for the treatment of superficial infections caused by species of pathogenic dermatophytes, yeasts, and Malassezia furfur. The mechanism of action involves inhibition of the synthesis of ergosterol, a major sterol in the fungal cell membrane. This leads to instability of the cell membrane and eventual death of the fungus.

Betamethasone dipropionate is a corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory, anti-pruritic, and vasoconstrictive properties. The exact mechanisms of action of corticosteroids in each disease are uncertain; however, betamethasone dipropionate has been shown to have dermatological and systemic pharmacologic and metabolic effects characteristic of this class of drugs. (from Mosby, Inc.)

For additional information on Lotrisone, please visit the web site of Schering-Plough Corporation.