Naftin (Naftifine)

What is Naftin?

Naftin (naftifine) is a topical antifungal medication.

What is Naftin used for?

Naftin is used in the topical treatment of certain dermal infections such as tinea pedis, tinea corporis, inflammatory pruritus, tinea cruris etc. (commonly known as athlete’s foot, ringworm, jock itch etc.) mainly caused by the fungi Epidermophyton floccosum, Trichophyton rubrum, M.canis and T. mentagrophytes.

How does Naftin work?

Naftin is an antifungal agent, which inhibits the growth of certain fungi.

How to use Naftin

Naftin should be used in the manner prescribed by a doctor. Using the medication for longer time or in larger amount than prescribed may prove to be harmful. The dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Naftin gel is usually used twice a day, in the morning and at night. However, if you are using the cream, you should apply the medicine just once a day.

Wash your hands before applying the cream. Apply a thin layer of the cream evenly to cover the affected area completely. Do not cover or wrap the area with cloth or bandage after application of the cream. Wash your hands afterwards unless your hands are also being treated.

It may take 2-4 weeks for the infection to clear up entirely.

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

Do not increase or decrease your dose without consultation with your doctor. However, if your condition does not improve at all or becomes worse consult your doctor immediately.

Naftin warnings and precautions

Naftin is not administered to patients who are allergic to naftifine.

Before taking the medication, inform your doctor about your medical conditions, especially if you are allergic to any other medication or skin product.

Naftin might have harmful effects on a fetus if used in larger amount or for longer time during pregnancy. However, it is not known whether the medication passes through breast milk. Therefore, pregnant and lactating women are advised to discuss the possible risks and benefits of using this medication with their doctors.

What do I do if I have missed a Naftin dose?

If you have missed a Naftin dose, use it as soon as you remember. If, however, it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose can be skipped. Do not use a double dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Naftin overdose?

If you have used an overdose of Naftin, consult your doctor.

Naftin interactions

Certain immunosuppressants may interact with Naftin. Using this medication with other topical products may result into skin irritation. Hence it is necessary to inform your doctor about all the skin products/ prescription/ non prescription drugs/herbal medicines that you are using/ taking, before using Naftin.

You should not start using any new topical product without consulting your doctor.

Naftin side effects

Side effects from Naftin include allergic reactions such as swelling of tongue, face, throat, hives, redness of skin, breathing problem etc. Seek emergency medical attention on appearance of any of these symptoms.

Mild skin irritation, itching, redness, stinging sensation, dryness are some common and less serious side effects of Naftin.