Generic name: econazole topical [ ee-con-a-zole ]
Drug class: Topical antifungals
Availability: Prescription only
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data available
Brand names: Ecoza, Econazole topical
What is Econazole nitrate?
Econazole Nitrate (for the skin) is used to treat athlete's foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), and ringworm (tinea corporis). This medicine is also used to treat tinea versicolor (a fungus that discolors the skin), and yeast infections of the skin.
Econazole Nitrate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
How should I use Econazole nitrate
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.
Wash your hands before and after applying Econazole Nitrate. Clean and dry the affected area.
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.
To treat athlete's foot: Apply the medicine to the affected areas and nearby skin once per day for 1 month.
To treat jock itch, ringworm, or tinea versicolor: Apply the medicine to the affected areas and nearby skin once per day for 2 weeks.
To treat yeast infections of the skin: Apply the medicine to the affected areas and nearby skin twice per day for 2 weeks.
Do not cover the treated skin area unless your doctor tells you to. Bandaging can increase the amount of drug absorbed through your skin and may cause harmful effects.
Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses can increase your risk of infection that is resistant to medication. Econazole Nitrate will not treat a bacterial infection.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.
Do not share this medication with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use.
Econazole Nitrate foam is flammable. Do not use near high heat or open flame. Do not store in direct sunlight. Do not smoke until the foam has completely dried on your skin.
Before Taking
You should not use Econazole Nitrate if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Econazole Nitrate is not approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years old.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while using Econazole nitrate?
Avoid getting Econazole Nitrate in your eyes or in your vagina.
Econazole nitrate side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have severe burning, redness, or stinging after applying the medicine.
Common side effects of Econazole Nitrate may include:
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burning, itching, stinging, and redness.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See more: Econazole nitrate Side EffectsWhat other drugs will affect Econazole nitrate?
Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:
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a blood thinner--warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven;
This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect Econazole Nitrate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.