Indications
Naftifine Hydrochloride cream or gel is used on the skin to treat fungal infections such as athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris) and ringworm of the body (tinea corporis).
How It Works
Naftifine is an allylamine antifungal. It blocks an enzyme called squalene epoxidase that fungi need to build their cell walls. This weakens and kills the fungus and helps the rash, itching and scaling settle.
Dosage and Administration
For adults and children over 12 years: wash and dry the affected skin, then apply a thin layer of the 1% or 2% cream or gel once a day, rubbing it gently into the area and a little of the healthy skin around it. Usual treatment lasts 2 weeks for the 2% product and up to 4 weeks for the 1% product, or as directed by your doctor. Wash your hands after use, unless the hands are being treated. For external use only.
Interactions
No important interactions with other medicines are known, because very little is absorbed through the skin. Avoid applying other creams, cosmetics or occlusive dressings on the same area unless your doctor advises it.
Contraindications
- Allergy to Naftifine or any ingredient in the product.
- Not for use in the eyes, mouth, nose or vagina.
Side Effects
Side effects are usually mild and limited to the area treated: burning, stinging, dryness, redness or itching. These often settle as treatment continues.
Stop using it and get urgent medical help if you develop a widespread rash, blistering, swelling of the face, lips or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Very little Naftifine is absorbed into the body, but safety in pregnancy has not been fully proven. Use only if your doctor advises it. If breastfeeding, do not apply it to the breast area, and ask your doctor before use.
Precautions and Warnings
Keep away from the eyes; if it gets in them, rinse well with water. Keep the area clean and dry, change socks and underwear daily and do not share towels. Keep using the product for the full course even if the skin looks better. See a doctor if there is no improvement after 4 weeks or if the rash spreads.
Overdose
Using too much on the skin is unlikely to cause serious harm but may increase irritation. If a large amount is swallowed, contact a doctor or poison centre.
Therapeutic Class
Topical antifungal; allylamine.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Do not freeze.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.