What is Econazole Nitrate (Econazole Topical)?

Econazole topical is an antifungal medication. Econazole topical prevents fungus from growing on your skin.
Econazole topical is used to treat skin infections such as athlete’s foot, jock itch, ringworm, tinea versicolor (a fungus that discolors the skin), and yeast infections.
Econazole topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Econazole Nitrate (Econazole Topical)?

Use this medication for the full amount of time prescribed by your doctor even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely healed.
Do not use bandages or dressings that do not allow air to circulate to the affected area (occlusive dressings) unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Wear loose-fitting clothing (preferably cotton).
Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Econazole Nitrate (Econazole Topical)?

Do not use econazole topical if you have had an allergic reaction to it in the past.
Econazole topical is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether econazole topical will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether econazole passes into breast milk. Do not use econazole topical without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Econazole Nitrate Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of Econazole Nitrate (Econazole Topical)?

Serious side effects of econazole topical topical use are unexpected. Stop using econazole topical and see your doctor if you experience unusual or severe blistering, itching, redness, peeling, dryness, swelling, or irritation of the skin.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Econazole Nitrate Interactions

What other drugs affect Econazole Nitrate (Econazole Topical)?

Avoid using other topicals at the same time unless your doctor approves. Other skin medications may affect the absorption or effectiveness of econazole topical.

What should I avoid while taking Econazole Nitrate (Econazole Topical)?

Avoid wearing tight-fitting, synthetic clothing that doesn’t allow air circulation. Wear loose-fitting clothing made of cotton and other natural fibers until the infection is healed.

Econazole Nitrate Dosage

How should I take Econazole Nitrate (Econazole Topical)?

Use econazole topical exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Wash your hands before and after using this medication.
Clean and dry the affected area. Apply the cream once or twice daily as directed for 2 to 4 weeks.
Use this medication for the full amount of time prescribed by your doctor even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely healed.
If the infection does not clear up in 2 weeks (or 4 weeks for athlete’s foot), or if it appears to get worse, see your doctor.
Do not use bandages that do not allow air circulation over the affected area (occlusive dressings) unless otherwise directed by your doctor. A light cotton-gauze dressing may be used to protect clothing.
Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Store econazole topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I overdose on Econazole Nitrate (Econazole Topical)?

An overdose of econazole topical is unlikely to occur. If you do suspect that a much larger than normal dose has been used, or that econazole topical has been ingested, contact an emergency room or a poison control center.

What happens if I miss a dose of Econazole Nitrate (Econazole Topical)?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the dose you missed and apply only the regular amount of econazole topical. Do not use a double dose unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Sourced from everydayhealth.com