Tolnaftate

Why this is used

Tolnaftate stops the growth of fungi that cause skin infections, including athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How to take it

Tolnaftate comes as a cream, liquid, powder, gel, spray powder, and spray liquid for application to the skin. Tolnaftate usually is applied twice a day. Follow the directions on the package or on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use tolnaftate exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than directed by your doctor. The burning and soreness of athlete's foot or the itching of jock itch should decrease within 2 to 3 days. Continue treatment for at least 2 weeks after symptoms disappear. A total of 4-6 weeks of treatment may be necessary. Thoroughly clean the infected area, allow it to dry, and then gently rub the medication in until most of it disappears. Use just enough medication to cover the affected area. You should wash your hands after applying the medication. Spray and powder forms should be applied between the toes; socks and shoes should be treated lightly. Sprays should be shaken well before each use to mix the medication and then sprayed from a distance of at least 6 inches.

Side effects

<p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Tolnaftate may cause side effects. If you experience the following symptom, call your doctor:

<ul>
<li>
skin irritation</li></ul>If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at <a href='http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch'>http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch</a>] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].</p>

Precautions

Before using tolnaftate, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to tolnaftate or any other drugs. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, including vitamins.
Educational reference only — talk to a pharmacist or prescriber about Tolnaftate.