Econazole

INTRODUCTION

Indications

Treatment of a variety of cutaneous fungal infections, including cutaneous candidiasis, tinea pedis (athlete's foot), tinea cruris (jock itch), tinea corporis (ringworm), and tinea versicolor.

Action

Affects the permeability of the fungal cell wall, allowing leakage of cellular contents. Therapeutic Effects: Decrease in symptoms of fungal infection.

Adverse Reactions/Side Effects

Local: burning, itching, local hypersensitivity reactions, redness, stinging.

PHYSICAL THERAPY IMPLICATIONS

Examination and Evaluation

• Assess healing of skin lesions to help document drug effectiveness.

Interventions

• Avoid contact with cutaneous lesions when treating patient.

• Always wash hands thoroughly and disinfect equipment (whirlpools, electrotherapeutic devices, treatment tables, and so forth) to help prevent the spread of infection.

Patient/Client-Related Instruction

• Advise patient to report any increased local sensitivity to this drug (pain, burning, itching, swelling).

• Instruct patient about proper hygiene; e.g., thoroughly wash and dry the affected area, wear clean socks and ventilated shoes for tinea pedis, and so forth.

• Advise patient to apply the drug as directed for the full course of treatment even if feeling better.

• Inform patient that early relief of cutaneous symptoms may be seen in 2–3 days. Full therapeutic response may take 2 wk for candidiasis, tinea cruris, tinea corporis, and tinea versicolor and 4 wk for tinea pedis.

• Advise patient to seek medical help if infections persist or recur after the full treatment. Recurrent fungal infections may be a sign of systemic illness.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Absorption through intact skin is minimal.

Distribution: Distribution after topical administration is primarily local.

Metabolism and Excretion: Metabolism in the liver and <1% excreted in the urine and feces.

Half-life: Not applicable.

Contraindications/Precautions

Contraindicated in: Hypersensitivity to active ingredients, additives, preservatives, or bases.

Use Cautiously in: Nail and scalp infections (may require additional systemic therapy); OB/Lactation: Safety not established.

Interactions

Drug-Drug: Not known.

Route/Dosage

Topical (Adults and Children): Apply once daily in patients with tinea pedis (for 1 mo), tinea cruris (for 2 wk), tinea corporis (for 2 wk), and tinea versicolor (for 2 wk). Apply twice daily in patients with cutaneous candidiasis (for 2 wk).

Availability (generic available)

Cream: 1% Rx.