FENTIKOL Cream

Indications

Fenticonazole Nitrate is an antifungal medicine used as a vaginal cream or vaginal soft capsule (ovule) to treat vaginal yeast infection (vaginal candidiasis, thrush) and mixed vaginal infections. As a skin cream it is used for fungal skin infections such as ringworm, athlete's foot, jock itch, and fungal infections of skin folds.

How It Works

Fenticonazole is an imidazole antifungal. It blocks the production of ergosterol, a building block of the fungal cell wall, and damages the cell membrane, so the fungus cannot grow and dies. It also has some activity against certain bacteria often present in mixed vaginal infections.

Dosage and Administration

Vaginal capsule (600 mg): insert one capsule high into the vagina at bedtime as a single dose; a second dose may be given after 3 days if the doctor advises. Vaginal cream: usually one applicatorful inserted into the vagina once a day, at bedtime, for 3 to 7 days, as directed on the label. Skin cream: apply a thin layer to the affected area and surrounding skin once or twice a day, usually for 2 to 4 weeks. Wash your hands before and after use. Follow the label or your doctor's advice.

Interactions

Very little is absorbed, so interactions with medicines taken by mouth are unlikely. Vaginal products may damage latex condoms and diaphragms, making them less reliable; use another method of contraception during and for a few days after treatment. Avoid using other vaginal products at the same time unless advised.

Contraindications

Do not use if you are allergic to Fenticonazole, other imidazole antifungals (such as Clotrimazole or Miconazole) or any ingredient in the product.

Side Effects

Mild burning, itching, redness or irritation where applied is the most common effect and usually passes quickly. Allergic skin reactions are rare.

Get urgent medical help if you have swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing or a widespread rash. See a doctor if you have fever, lower abdominal pain, foul-smelling discharge, bleeding, or if symptoms do not improve within a few days, as these may point to another infection.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Use in pregnancy only if a doctor advises; when using vaginal products in pregnancy, take care inserting them, and avoid an applicator if your doctor says so. Skin or vaginal use is generally considered acceptable while breastfeeding; do not apply to the breast area.

Precautions and Warnings

For external or vaginal use only; do not swallow. Avoid contact with the eyes. Complete the full course even if symptoms improve. See a doctor if this is your first vaginal yeast infection, if infections keep coming back (more than 4 a year), or if you have diabetes. Sexual partners may need treatment if they have symptoms. Avoid sexual intercourse during treatment.

Overdose

Overdose is unlikely with topical or vaginal use. If swallowed accidentally, contact a doctor or the nearest hospital.

Therapeutic Class

Topical and vaginal imidazole antifungal.

Storage

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