Climbazole
1-(4-chlorophenoxy)-1-(imidazol-1-yl)-3,3-dimethylbutan-2-one
Also known as: Douxo Pyo · CLX wipes
Reviewed by the VetSheet Veterinary TeamUpdated Apr 5, 2026Evidence-based veterinary reference
Doses are a clinical reference for licensed veterinary professionals. Always confirm against the current label and the individual patient.
Dosing by species
🌎 NA — North America🌍 EU — Europe
Dogs
| Indication | Dose | Route | Frequency | Duration | Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dermatophyte and Malassezia skin infections | May be applied daily-weekly | topical | daily to weekly | Until clinical resolution | 🌍 EU |
- Dermatophyte and Malassezia skin infections: For shampoo formulations 5-10 minutes contact time is required. Additional systemic antifungal treatment may be required in generalized cases.
Cats
| Indication | Dose | Route | Frequency | Duration | Region |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dermatophyte and Malassezia skin infections | May be applied daily-weekly | topical | daily to weekly | Until clinical resolution | 🌍 EU |
- Dermatophyte and Malassezia skin infections: For shampoo formulations 5-10 minutes contact time is required. Additional systemic antifungal treatment may be required in generalized cases.
Doses are a clinical reference for licensed veterinary professionals. Always confirm against the current label and the individual patient.
Overview
Climbazole is a topical imidazole antifungal agent commonly used in veterinary dermatology. It is frequently formulated in combination with chlorhexidine to treat Malassezia dermatitis and dermatophyte skin infections.
Clinical Pearl: While highly effective for localized or mild surface yeast infections, generalized or severe cases often require concurrent systemic antifungal therapy. The synergistic effect of climbazole and chlorhexidine provides excellent broad-spectrum coverage against both secondary bacterial pyoderma and yeast overgrowth.
Mechanism of action
Climbazole inhibits cytochrome P450-dependent 14-alpha-demethylase → blocks the synthesis of ergosterol in fungal cell membranes → causes increased cell wall permeability → allows leakage of cellular contents, ultimately leading to fungal cell death.
Safety & warnings
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to climbazole or other formulation ingredients
Adverse effects
- Mild skin irritation (rare)
- Erythema (rare)
Precautions
Avoid contact with the patient's eyes and mucous membranes. Crucial: For shampoo formulations, a 5-10 minute contact time on the skin is required before rinsing to ensure efficacy.
Monitoring
- Resolution of clinical signs (pruritus, erythema, scaling, odor)
- Skin cytology to monitor Malassezia and bacterial populations
Pharmacokinetics
Half-life
Absorption
Minimal systemic absorption following topical application on intact skin.
Distribution
Remains primarily in the stratum corneum and superficial epidermis.
Metabolism
Not extensively metabolized systemically due to poor absorption.
Elimination
Removed mechanically via desquamation and washing.
Overdose
Systemic overdose is highly unlikely due to the topical route of administration. Accidental ingestion of shampoos or wipes may cause mild, self-limiting gastrointestinal upset (hypersalivation, vomiting, diarrhea).
Available products
Formulations
- Topical shampoo
- Topical mousse
- Topical pads
- Topical wipes
Veterinary
- Douxo Pyo shampoo/mousse/pads (3% chlorhexidine + 0.5% climbazole + phytosphingosine)
- CLX wipes (chlorhexidine, Tris-EDTA, zinc gluconate, glycerine, climbazole, benzyl alcohol, propylene glycol)
Regulatory status
Available as general sale (OTC) dermatological products.
Available as general sale (OTC) dermatological products.
No regulatory data for: 🇺🇸 US · 🇭🇰 HK · 🇹🇼 TW · 🇯🇵 JP · 🇰🇷 KR · 🇦🇺 AU
Storage & stability
Store at room temperature. Keep containers tightly closed and protect from freezing or excessive heat.
Client information
Apply the product exactly as directed by your veterinarian.
- Crucial: If using a medicated shampoo, you must lather it and leave it on the skin for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing. This contact time is essential for the medication to kill the yeast and bacteria.
- Avoid getting the product in your pet's eyes or mouth.
- If skin redness, irritation, or itching worsens after application, discontinue use and contact your veterinarian.
VetSheet drug reference is intended for licensed veterinary professionals as a clinical decision-support aid, not a substitute for professional judgement or the manufacturer’s current label.