Econazole Nitrate

What is Econazole Nitrate?

Econazole cream (miconazole) is a topical antifungal medication used to treat certain skin conditions.

What is Econazole Nitrate used for?

Econazole cream is used in the treatment of various fungal skin infections such as tinea versicolor, ringworm, jock itch, athlete’s foot and yeast infections.

How does Econazole Nitrate work?

Econazole cream is an azole antifungal. It checks the growth of fungus and helps in the treatment of fungal infections of skin.

How to use Econazole Nitrate

Econazole cream should be used in the manner prescribed by a doctor. Also, read instructions given with the product package. The dosage and length of treatment depends on the type of infection and your response to treatment.

Wash your hands properly before applying the medication. Clean and dry the affected area and then apply a thin layer of the cream. Rub it gently into the skin. The medication is usually used twice a day.

Do not wrap or cover the affected area after the medication is applied.

Wash your hands afterwards unless your hands are also being treated.

Avoid contact of Econazole cream with eyes, nose or mouth. 

Care should be taken to complete the full course of Econazole cream. The medication should not be stopped suddenly even if your condition improves within a few days. Doing so may allow the fungus to resume its growth thus resulting into a relapse of the infection. The medication needs to be gradually decreased as per directions from your doctor. 

It may take 2-4 weeks for the infection to clear up. Do not increase or stop your dose unless otherwise directed by your doctor. However, if your condition does not improve at all or becomes worse consult your doctor immediately.

Econazole Nitrate warnings and precautions

Econazole cream is not administered to patients who are allergic to azole antifungals.

Before taking the medication, inform your doctor about your entire medical history, especially if you are allergic to any other drug.

You should avoid wearing tight fitting clothes and opt for loose cotton clothes until the infection is cleared up.

Effects of Econazole cream on fetus or nursing babies are not known for certain. Therefore, pregnant and lactating women are advised to discuss the possible risks and benefits of taking the drug with their doctors.

What do I do if I have missed a Econazole Nitrate dose?

If you have missed an Econazole cream dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If, however, it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose can be skipped.

What do I do if I have taken a Econazole Nitrate overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Econazole cream, seek medical attention.

Econazole Nitrate interactions

Avoid using other cream medication on the affected area while using Econazole cream as doing so may decrease absorption of Econazole cream into the skin.

It is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription/ non prescription drugs/ herbal medicines/ vitamin-mineral supplements that you are taking, before using Econazole cream.

You should not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Econazole Nitrate side effects

Side effects from Econazole cream are not usually serious in nature. There can be allergic reactions such as swelling of tongue, face, throat, hives, redness of skin etc. Seek emergency medical attention on appearance of such symptoms. Also consult your doctor if you observe blistering of skin, oozing or open sores.

Burning or stinging sensation, irritation, redness, swelling, rash, tenderness, flaking of skin are some common and less serious side effects of Econazole cream.