Candid-B

Terbinafine (1% w/w) + Clobetasol (0.05% w/w) + Ofloxacin (0.75% w/w) + Ornidazole (2% w/w)
Price: ₹80 - ₹115 for 15g tube (Approximate MRP)
Mfr: Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | Form: Cream

📋 Clinical Overview

A comprehensive topical quadruple-action cream indicated for the treatment of mixed dermatological infections, particularly those involving dermatophytes, bacteria, and anaerobic organisms, with a potent corticosteroid component for rapid anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic relief. It is a rational fixed-dose combination (FDC) widely used in the Indian market for conditions like infected eczema, infected tinea, and other inflammatory dermatoses with secondary infection.

💊 Dosage & Administration

Adult: Apply a thin film to the affected area twice daily, gently rubbing in. Duration: Usually for 1-2 weeks. Maximum duration should not exceed 4 weeks. Review by physician after 2 weeks is mandatory.

Note: 1. Wash and dry the affected area thoroughly. 2. Take a small amount of cream on a clean fingertip. 3. Apply a thin layer and rub gently until absorbed. 4. Wash hands after application unless hands are the treatment site. 5. Do not cover with occlusive dressings unless specifically advised by a doctor. 6. Avoid contact with eyes, nose, mouth, and mucous membranes.

⚠️ Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to any component or related drugs (e.g., other quinolones, imidazoles)
  • Viral skin infections (herpes simplex, varicella, vaccinia)
  • Untreated bacterial/fungal infections not covered by spectrum
  • Perioral dermatitis
  • Acne rosacea
  • Application to the face, groin, or axillae unless specifically directed (due to clobetasol)

🔬 Mechanism of Action

This combination exerts a multifaceted action: 1) Terbinafine inhibits fungal squalene epoxidase, leading to ergosterol deficiency and fungal cell death. 2) Clobetasol is a potent glucocorticoid receptor agonist inducing anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and antipruritic effects via complex genomic pathways. 3) Ofloxacin inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase (topoisomerase II) and topoisomerase IV, causing bactericidal activity. 4) Ornidazole undergoes intracellular reduction of its nitro group, generating toxic intermediates that damage DNA and other macromolecules in anaerobic bacteria and protozoa.

🤕 Side Effects

  • Local burning or stinging sensation (especially on broken skin)
  • Itching (pruritus) at application site
  • Dryness of skin
  • Erythema (redness)
  • Skin irritation

🤰 Special Populations

Pregnancy: Category C (US FDA). Clobetasol is Category C; others are also Category C or not formally assigned. Topical corticosteroids, especially potent ones, can cause fetal harm when used in large amounts or for prolonged periods. Teratogenic risk from other components with topical use is considered low but not zero. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Avoid large surface areas and prolonged use.

Driving: Generally safe. However, if systemic absorption occurs (large areas), components like ornidazole may cause dizziness, vertigo, or seizures, impairing the ability to drive or operate machinery. Patients should be cautioned.

🔄 Drug Interactions

Systemic Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisolone)Additive risk of adrenal suppression and Cushingoid features.Major
Other Topical CorticosteroidsIncreased risk of local and systemic steroid adverse effects.Major
Systemic Fluoroquinolones (e.g., Ciprofloxacin)Theoretical additive risk of tendon disorders; clinical significance with topical use is low.Moderate
Warfarin and other Coumarin AnticoagulantsOrnidazole and ofloxacin may potentiate anticoagulant effect by various mechanisms (inhibition of metabolism, alteration of gut flora). Monitor INR if large areas are treated.Moderate
CYP450 Inducers (e.g., Rifampicin, Phenytoin, Carbamazepine)May reduce systemic levels of terbinafine and ornidazole if absorbed.Minor
CYP450 Inhibitors (e.g., Cimetidine, Ketoconazole)May increase systemic levels of terbinafine and ornidazole if absorbed.Minor
AlcoholDisulfiram-like reaction (flushing, tachycardia, nausea) is possible with systemic absorption of ornidazole. Patients should be cautioned.Moderate

🔁 Alternatives to Candid-B

Same composition (Terbinafine (1% w/w) + Clobetasol (0.05% w/w) + Ofloxacin (0.75% w/w) + Ornidazole (2% w/w)), different brands:

Fourderm Zincotan-TO T-Quad Zocon-TO