Uses
What is topical tolnaftate used for?
Topical tolnaftate is commonly used to treat and prevent athlete’s foot and treat ringworm, which are skin conditions that can cause itching, burning, and cracking.
Topical tolnaftate may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.
How does topical tolnaftate work (mechanism of action)?
Topical tolnaftate kills certain types of fungi by blocking their ability to grow.
How is topical tolnaftate supplied (dosage forms)?
Topical tolnaftate is available in the following dosage forms that are applied or sprayed onto the skin.
- 1% deodorant powder spray
- 1% liquid spray
- 1% medicated foot powder
- 1% silky clear gel
- 1% fungal nail treatment
- 1% antifungal cream
How should I store topical tolnaftate?
Topical Cream, Gel, and Powder. Store at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). Store in a cool, dry place.
Topical Liquid. Store at room temperature, between 59 F to 86 F (15 C to 30 C).
Topical Spray. Store at room temperature, between 68 F to 77 F (20 C to 25 C). Tolnaftate spray in a can is flammable. Never place the can into a flame or store it at a temperature above 120 F (49 C). This can cause the can to explode.
Side Effects
What are the most common side effects of topical tolnaftate?
The most common side effects of topical tolnaftate are skin redness or irritation. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.
There may be other side effects of topical tolnaftate that are not listed here. Contact your healthcare provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.
What are the serious side effects of topical tolnaftate?
While less common, the most serious side effects of topical tolnaftate are described below, along with what to do if they happen.
Severe Allergic Reactions. Topical tolnaftate can cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using topical tolnaftate and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.
- Breathing problems or wheezing
- Racing heart
- Fever or general ill feeling
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
- Trouble in swallowing or throat tightness
- Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or feeling like you are about to pass out
- Stomach cramps
- Joint pain
Warnings & Precautions
Who should not use topical tolnaftate?
Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use topical tolnaftate.
- Fungoid-D
- Lotrimin AF
- Tinactin
- Tolnaftate
- Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed
Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific topical tolnaftate products they stock.
What should I know about topical tolnaftate before using it?
Keep topical tolnaftate out of the reach of children.
Avoid touching your eyes while applying topical tolnaftate to your skin.
Before applying topical tolnaftate, the skin should be gently cleansed with a mild skin cleanser and patted dry.
Topical tolnaftate is only for use on the skin, including the skin around your toenails and in-between your toes. The medicine does not work on the nails themselves or on the scalp.
Topical tolnaftate sprays should be shaken well before use. The spray is flammable. Do not use it near a heat source, a flame, or while smoking because the can could explode. Do not pierce or puncture the can.
If your skin has not improved within four weeks, stop using topical tolnaftate and call your healthcare provider.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before using topical tolnaftate?
Tell your healthcare provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if topical tolnaftate is right for you.
In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.
Pregnancy. Tell your healthcare provider if you are or plan to become pregnant. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should use topical tolnaftate while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
Breastfeeding. Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should use topical tolnaftate while breastfeeding.
Interactions
Does topical tolnaftate interact with foods or drinks?
There are no known interactions between topical tolnaftate and foods or drinks.
There are no known interactions between topical tolnaftate and alcohol.
Does topical tolnaftate interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?
Always tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.
Overdose/Missed Dose
What should I do if I accidentally use too much topical tolnaftate?
If you or someone else has used too much topical tolnaftate or accidently swallowed it, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.
What should I do if I miss a dose of topical tolnaftate?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only use the next dose. Do not use double or extra doses.
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