Clotrimazole, the active substance of Kanesten® spray, is an imidazole derivative and has a broad spectrum of antimycotic action. The mechanism of action of clotrimazole is associated with inhibition of ergosterol synthesis, which leads to a disruption in the structure and functions of the cytoplasmic membrane of fungi. Has fungistatic or fungicidal activity depending on the concentration in the focus of infection.
Kanesten® is active against dermatophytes, yeast-like, mold fungi, as well as the causative agent of a multicolored lichen (Pityriasis vers.) and the causative agent of erythrasma. Along with antimycotic, Kanesten® has an antimicrobial effect against Trichomonas vaginalis, Gram-positive (Streptococcus, Staphylococcus) and Gram-negative microorganisms (Bacteroides, Gardnerella vaginalis).
In vitro in concentrations 0,5-10 mcg / ml clotrimazole suppresses the reproduction of the bacteria of the family Corynebacteria and Gram-positive cocci (excluding zinterococci) and has a trichomonaside effect at a concentration of 100 μg / ml.
Primarily resistant strains of clotrimazole-sensitive fungi are very rare; the development of secondary resistance is observed only in individual cases and only under certain therapeutic conditions.