Aquazole cream is a combination medication that is used to treat a variety of skin conditions like inflammation and fungal infections.

About Aquazole Cream

  • Generic Name: Hydrocortisone + Clotrimazole
  • Properties: Antibiotic + Antifungal
  • Manufactured and Marketed By: Martin Dow
  • Presentation: 20gm Tube (Cream form)
Aquazole Cream Uses and Indications

Common Uses and Indications of Aquazole Cream

  1. Mixed Dermatoses: Aquazole cream is particularly useful in cases where a skin condition involves both inflammation (such as redness, swelling, and itching) and a fungal infection. For example, certain types of dermatitis (eczema) can become secondarily infected with fungi.
  2. Contact Dermatitis: Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen, leading to redness, itching, and sometimes blistering. If there’s also a fungal component involved, the use of Aquazole cream can be beneficial.
  3. Dermatophyte Infections: These are fungal infections caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes. They can lead to conditions like athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), and ringworm (tinea corporis). Aquazole cream helps in treating the fungal infection and also relieves the associated inflammation and itching.
  4. Yeast Infections: Aquazole cream can be used for certain yeast infections, such as cutaneous candidiasis, which is a fungal infection caused by Candida species.

Off-label Uses of Aquazole Cream

  1. Intertrigo: Intertrigo is a rash that occurs in skin folds, such as under the breasts, in the groin area, or between the buttocks. It can be exacerbated by both fungal and bacterial infections, Aquazole cream is potentially useful in some cases.
  2. Perioral Dermatitis: This is a facial rash that tends to occur around the mouth and eyes. It’s not always clear what causes it, but it can have elements of both inflammation and fungal involvement, making Aquazole cream a potential option in some cases.
  3. Folliculitis: Folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles that can be caused by bacteria or fungi. In cases where both types of microorganisms are involved, Aquazole cream might be considered.
  4. Pruritus (Itchy Skin): Severe itching can be caused by a variety of factors, including fungal infections and inflammatory skin conditions. In some cases, Aquazole cream could be used to address both aspects.
  5. Treatment of Mixed Eczema: Eczema can sometimes involve both inflammatory and fungal elements. In such cases, Aquazole cream might be considered for short-term use.

Formulation And Key Ingredients

  • Hydrocortisone (USP): 1%w/w
  • Clotrimazole (USP): 1%w/w

Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid medication that helps to reduce inflammation, itching, and redness associated with various skin conditions. It works by suppressing the immune response and reducing the release of substances in the body that cause inflammation.

Clotrimazole is an antifungal medication that works by inhibiting the growth of fungi. It is commonly used to treat various fungal infections, particularly those caused by dermatophytes and yeasts.

Proper Application Of Aquazole Cream

To apply Aquazole cream properly, follow these steps:

  • Wash the affected area with soap and water.
  • Dry the area thoroughly.
  • Apply a thin layer of cream to the affected area and rub it in gently.
  • Apply the cream twice a day, once in the morning and once at night.
  • Continue using the cream for the full course of treatment, even if the symptoms disappear after a few days.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind when applying Aquazole cream:

  • Avoid getting the cream in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If this happens, rinse the area with water immediately.
  • Do not apply the cream to open wounds or irritated skin.
  • If you are using Aquazole cream to treat seborrheic dermatitis, you may also need to use shampoo or other topical medication to treat the scalp.

Who Should Not Use Aquazole Cream – Contraindications

  1. Hypersensitivity or Allergy: Individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to either hydrocortisone or clotrimazole or any of the other components in the cream, should not use Aquazole cream.
  2. Viral Infections: Aquazole cream is not effective against viral infections like herpes simplex, chickenpox, or shingles. In fact, using it in these cases can potentially worsen the condition.
  3. Bacterial Infections: Aquazole cream is primarily designed to treat fungal infections. If a bacterial infection is present, using this cream alone may not be effective and could potentially worsen the condition.
  4. Acne or Rosacea: Aquazole cream can sometimes exacerbate conditions like acne or rosacea. Therefore, it should be used with caution, if at all, in individuals with these conditions.
  5. Perioral Dermatitis: In some cases, perioral dermatitis can be aggravated by the use of topical corticosteroids like hydrocortisone (an active ingredient of Aquazole cream).
  6. Skin Tuberculosis: If a person has tuberculosis of the skin, using Aquazole cream can potentially exacerbate the condition.
  7. Fungal Resistance: If the fungus causing the infection is known to be resistant to clotrimazole, the use of Aquazole cream may not be effective.
  8. Open Wounds or Ulcers: Hydrocortisone can slow down wound healing, so using Aquazole cream on open wounds or ulcers is generally not recommended.
  9. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: While there’s limited evidence on the safety of Aquazole cream during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it’s recommended to consult a healthcare provider before using it in these situations.
  10. Children: Specific precautions may be needed when using Aquazole cream in children, and it should be used under the guidance of a pediatrician.

FAQs

  1. Q: Is Aquazole cream available over the counter?
    Yes, it is available without a prescription at most drugstores and pharmacies.
  2. Q: Can I use Aquazole cream for diaper rash in infants?
    It’s not recommended for infants without consulting a pediatrician first.
  3. Q: How long does it take to see results?
    Results may vary, but many users report improvement within a few days of consistent use.
  4. Q: Are there any drug interactions to be aware of?
    There are no significant reported drug interactions, but it’s always wise to consult your healthcare provider if you’re taking other medications.
  5. Q: Can I use Aquazole cream on my face?
    Avoid using it on your face unless specifically instructed by a healthcare professional.

Aquazole Cream’s Alternatives : Other Similar Brands

The following are Some alternative brands of Aquazole Cream and their manufacturers.

  • Hydrozole : Stiefel Laboratories Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.
  • Curezole : Atco Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Dermosporin : Nabiqasim Industries (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan
  • Gynosporin : Nabiqasim Industries (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Canesten : Bayer Schering Pharma.
  • Creamazole : Valor Pharmaceutical, Pakistan.
  • Biotrim : Bio Labs (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Cara-Clot : Caraway Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.
  • Clomazol : Pharmawise Labs. (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Clonil Skin : Mediceena Pharma (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Cloteen-V : Highnoon Laboratories Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Clozim-6 : Stanley Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.
  • Clozox : Shaigan Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.