Tolnaftate (patient information)
Why is this medication prescribed
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 should this medicine be used
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 2-3 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.
What special precautions should I follow
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.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using tolnaftate, call your doctor.
What should I do if I forget a dose
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Side Effects
Minor Side Effects
Tolnaftate may cause side effects. If you experience the following symptom, call your doctor immediately:
- skin irritation
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 http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].
What storage conditions are needed for this medicine
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Do not puncture spray cans or throw them into a fire. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
What other information should I know
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Tolnaftate is for external use only. Do not let tolnaftate get into your eyes, nose, or mouth, and do not swallow it. Do not apply dressings, bandages, cosmetics, lotions, or other skin medications to the area being treated unless your doctor tells you.
Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the tolnaftate, call your doctor.
Brand names
- Aftate® for Athlete's Foot Aerosol Spray Liquid
- Aftate® for Athlete's Foot Aerosol Spray Powder
- Aftate® for Jock Itch Aerosol Spray Powder
- Breezee® Mist Antifungal Foot Powder
- Tinactin®
- Tinactin® Jock Itch Cream
- Tinactin® Jock Itch Spray Powder
- Tinactin® Liquid Aerosol
- Tinactin® Powder Aerosol
- Ting® Antifungal Cream
- Ting® Antifungal Spray