Econal

Indications

Econazole Nitrate is an antifungal medicine used on the skin and in the vagina. It treats:

• Fungal skin infections such as ringworm of the body, groin (jock itch) and feet (athlete's foot)
• Yeast (Candida) infections of the skin and skin folds
• Pityriasis versicolor (pale or dark patches on the skin)
• Vaginal yeast infection (thrush), using vaginal pessaries or vaginal cream

How It Works

It damages the outer wall (membrane) of the fungus so the fungus cannot grow and dies. It also has a mild effect against some bacteria.

Dosage and Administration

Skin cream (1%): wash and dry the area, then apply a thin layer to the affected skin and a little around it, usually twice a day. Continue for 2 to 4 weeks, and for about 2 weeks after the skin looks clear, so the infection does not come back. Wash your hands after use unless the hands are being treated.

Vaginal pessary (150 mg): insert one pessary high into the vagina at bedtime for 3 nights in a row, or as the doctor advises. Use the full course even if symptoms improve early.

Interactions

• Warfarin: Econazole can rarely increase its blood-thinning effect, so the doctor may check the INR (blood clotting test).
• Vaginal products can weaken latex condoms and diaphragms. Use another method of contraception during treatment and for a few days after.

Contraindications

Do not use if you are allergic to Econazole, other similar antifungals (such as Miconazole or Clotrimazole) or any ingredient of the product.

Side Effects

Common: mild burning, itching, stinging or redness where it is applied. With vaginal use, mild local burning or irritation.

Get urgent medical help if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction: swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash. Stop using it and see a doctor if irritation becomes severe.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Only small amounts are absorbed, but it is best avoided in the first 3 months of pregnancy. Later in pregnancy, use it only if a doctor advises. In pregnancy, insert pessaries by hand rather than with an applicator. When breastfeeding, ask a doctor first, and do not apply it on the breast area.

Precautions and Warnings

• For external or vaginal use only. Do not swallow, and keep it away from the eyes.
• If there is no improvement after 2 weeks of skin treatment, or 1 week for vaginal infection, see a doctor.
• Keep the area clean and dry, and do not share towels.
• See a doctor before self-treating a vaginal infection if it is the first time, if it keeps coming back, or if you have fever, stomach pain or bad-smelling discharge.

Overdose

Using too much on the skin is unlikely to cause harm. If it is swallowed by accident, contact a doctor or hospital.

Therapeutic Class

Antifungal (imidazole type), for skin and vaginal use.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Do not freeze.