Treatment of a variety of cutaneous fungal infections, including tinea pedis (athlete’s foot), tinea cruris (jock itch), and tinea corporis (ringworm).
Action⬆⬇
Distorts the hyphae and stunts mycelial growth in fungi.
Therapeutic effects:
Decrease in symptoms of fungal infection.
Pharmacokinetics⬆⬇
Absorption: Absorption through intact skin is minimal.
Distribution: Distribution after topical administration is primarily local.
Metabolism/Excretion: Systemic metabolism and excretion not known following local application.
Half-Life: Not applicable.
Time/Action Profile⬆⬇
ROUTE
ONSET
PEAK
DURATION
Topical
24–72 hr
unknown
unknown
Contraind./Precautions⬆⬇
Contraindicated in:
Hypersensitivity to active ingredients, additives, preservatives, or bases;
Some products contain alcohol and should be avoided in patients with known intolerance.
Use Cautiously in:
Nail and scalp infections (may require additional systemic therapy);
OB: Safety not established.
Adv. Reactions/Side Effects⬆⬇
Local: burning, itching, local hypersensitivity reactions, redness, stinging
Interactions⬆⬇
Drug-drug:
Not known.
Route/Dosage⬆⬇
(Adults and Children ≥2 yr): Apply twice daily for up to 2 wk for tinea cruris and for up to 4 wk for tinea pedis or tinea corporis.
Availability⬆⬇
(Generic available)
Cream: 1%OTC
Powder: 1%OTC
Solution: 1%OTC
Spray liquid: 1%OTC
Spray powder: 1%OTC
Assessment⬆⬇
Inspect involved areas of skin and mucous membranes before and frequently during therapy. Increased skin irritation may indicate need to discontinue medication.
Implementation⬆⬇
Consult health care professional for proper cleansing technique before applying medication.
Topical Apply small amount to cover affected area completely. Avoid the use of occlusive wrappings or dressings unless directed by health care professional.
Patient/Family Teaching⬆⬇
Instruct patient to apply medication as directed for full course of therapy, even if feeling better. Emphasize the importance of avoiding the eyes.
Caution patient that some products may stain fabric, skin, or hair. Check label information. Fabrics stained from cream can usually be cleaned by handwashing with soap and warm water.
Patients with athlete’s foot should be taught to wear well-fitting, ventilated shoes, to wash affected areas thoroughly, and to change shoes and socks at least once a day.
Advise patient to report increased skin irritation or lack of response to therapy to health care professional.
Evaluation/Desired Outcomes⬆⬇
Decrease in skin irritation and resolution of infection. Early relief of symptoms may be seen in 2–3 days. For tinea cruris and tinea corporis, 2 wk are needed, and for tinea pedis, therapeutic response may take 4 wk. Recurrent fungal infections may be a sign of systemic illness.
US Brand Names⬆⬇
Lamisil AF, Podactin, Tinactin, Ting, Tolnaftate-D
