Econazole skin cream

What is this medicine?

ECONAZOLE (e KON na zole) is an antifungal medicine. It is used to treat certain kinds of fungal or yeast infections of the skin.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. If treating hand or nail infections, only wash hands before use. Apply enough of the cream to cover the affected skin and surrounding area. Rub in gently. You can cover the area with a sterile gauze dressing (bandage). Do not use an airtight bandage (such as a plastic-covered bandage). Do not get this medicine in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. Use at regular intervals. Finish the full course prescribed by your doctor or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

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

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

• skin irritation, burning, or redness

What may interact with this medicine?

This medicine may interact with the following medication:

• warfarin

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.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

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

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

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

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

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve within 2 to 4 weeks, or of they get worse.

Tell your doctor or health care professional if you develop sores or blisters that do not heal properly. If your skin infection returns after you stop using this medicine, contact your doctor or health care professional.

If you are using this medicine for jock itch, do not wear underwear that is tight-fitting or made from synthetic fibers such as rayon or nylon. Instead, wear loose-fitting, cotton underwear. Dry the area completely after bathing.

If you are using this medicine to treat athlete's foot, carefully dry the feet, especially between the toes, after bathing. Do not wear socks made from wool or synthetic materials such as rayon or nylon. Wear clean cotton socks and change them daily or more if your feet sweat a lot. Try wearing sandals or shoes that are well-ventilated.

An absorbent powder such as talcum powder or an antifungal powder may be applied to the skin to keep it dry. Apply the powder to the affected skin in between applications of this medicine.

Tinea versicolor (sun fungus) may cause you to have patches of skin that are lighter or darker than the surrounding skin areas. Treatment with this medicine will not restore normal skin coloring right away. It may take a few months for the skin appearance to improve.