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Tolnaftate skin powder

Tolnaftate is an antifungal medication that treats fungal or yeast infections on your skin. It comes as a powder that you can apply onto your affected skin in the morning and evening as directed.

What is this medication?

TOLNAFTATE (tole NAF tate) is an antifungal medicine. It is used to treat certain kinds of fungal or yeast infections of the skin.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Antifungal, Lamisil AF, Tinactin

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What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

•diabetes

•immune system problems

•peripheral vascular disease

•an unusual or allergic reaction to tolnaftate, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

•pregnant or trying to get pregnant

•breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medicine is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Avoid getting in the eyes or nose. Follow the directions on the label. Wash hands before and after use. Cleanse and dry affected area thoroughly. Apply a thin layer of the product to cover the affected skin and surrounding area. Use in the morning and evening or as directed by your doctor or health care professional. Use this medicine for the full amount of time recommended on the package or by your doctor or health care professional even if you begin to feel better. Do not use for more than 4 weeks without advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this medicine may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

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What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other skin products on the affected area without asking your doctor or health care professional.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

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What should I watch for while using this medication?

Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. You may have a skin infection that does not respond to this medicine.

If you are using this medicine for 'jock itch' be sure to dry the groin completely after bathing. Do not wear underwear that is tight-fitting or made from synthetic fibers like rayon or nylon. Wear loose-fitting, cotton underwear.

If you are using this medicine for athlete's foot be sure to dry your feet carefully after bathing, especially between the toes. Do not wear socks made from wool or synthetic materials like rayon or nylon. Wear clean cotton socks and change them at least once a day, change them more if your feet sweat a lot. Also, try to wear sandals or shoes that are well-ventilated.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

•increased inflammation, redness, or pain at the affected area

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

•dry skin

•mild skin irritation, burning, or itching at the affected area

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Copyright ©2024 Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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