Tolnaftate is an antifungal medication that you apply to your skin. It’s commonly used to treat fungal infections like athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm. You can find it over the counter in many pharmacies and drug stores.
This article will give you a complete overview of the side effects of tolnaftate, as well as instructions on how to use it properly and some important things to keep in mind before you start using it.
It’s important to understand the potential side effects of any medication, even those you can buy without a prescription. If you have any questions or concerns, always talk to a healthcare professional.
What is Tolnaftate and How Does It Work?
Tolnaftate is an antifungal medication that you can buy over the counter to treat skin infections.
Uses of Tolnaftate
Tolnaftate is FDA-approved to treat:
- Athlete’s foot (Tinea pedis)
- Jock itch (Tinea cruris)
- Ringworm (Tinea corporis)
- Tinea versicolor
It can also be used to prevent athlete’s foot from recurring.
How Tolnaftate Works
Tolnaftate stops fungi from growing, which allows your body to fight off the infection.
Tolnaftate side effects
Like all medications, tolnaftate can come with side effects. Here’s what you need to know.
Common side effects
The most common side effects are mild skin irritations around the area where you applied the medicine. These can include:
- itching
- dryness
- peeling
- redness
Usually, these side effects are mild and go away on their own. If they bother you, stop using the medication and talk with a doctor.
Less common, serious side effects
In rare cases, tolnaftate can cause more serious side effects, such as:
- Allergic reactions: Symptoms include rash, itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.
- Sensitization: This means your skin becomes more sensitive to the medication, leading to increased irritation or allergic reactions.
When to seek medical attention
It’s important to know when to seek medical help. See a doctor if:
- Your symptoms get worse or don’t improve after 2 to 4 weeks of treatment.
- You have signs of an allergic reaction.
If you’re concerned about any side effects, it’s always a good idea to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Who should avoid tolnaftate?
Though tolnaftate is available over the counter, it is not for everyone. It’s important to know when to avoid using this medication.
Who should avoid tolnaftate
- You are allergic to tolnaftate or any of the other ingredients in the product.
- You have broken, sunburned, or irritated skin.
Special precautions
- For external use only. Be careful to avoid getting tolnaftate in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with a healthcare provider before using tolnaftate.
- Do not give tolnaftate to a child unless a doctor has told you to do so.
Important considerations
- Before using tolnaftate, tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products. Also, tell them about any allergies you have.
- Keep tolnaftate out of the reach of children.
How to use tolnaftate
Whether you’re using a gel, cream, powder, or spray, here’s how to use tolnaftate safely and effectively:
- Before you apply the medication, wash and dry the area where you’ll be using it.
- Apply a thin layer of tolnaftate.
- Wash your hands.
- Carefully follow the directions on the package or from your healthcare provider.
Most people apply tolnaftate twice a day for two to three weeks. If your skin is thick and cracked, you may need to use it for four to six weeks.
If you’re using a spray or powder form of tolnaftate, be sure to apply it between your toes. You can also lightly dust the inside of your shoes and socks with the medication.
Interactions and overdose
Drug interactions
Some sources do not list any drug interactions for tolnaftate. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t any. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to be sure tolnaftate is safe for you to use given your health history and other medications.
Overdose
If someone swallows tolnaftate or uses way too much, call for medical help right away.
Storage and disposal
Keep your tolnaftate cream at room temperature, and make sure it’s away from heat and moisture. Store it in a childproof container, and keep it far out of the reach of children.
When you’re ready to dispose of unwanted tolnaftate cream, do so through a local take-back program or other approved method.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common side effects of tolnaftate?
Tolnaftate is generally well-tolerated, but some common side effects include mild skin irritation, itching, redness, or a burning sensation at the application site. These are usually temporary and resolve on their own. Allergic reactions are rare but possible.
How common is liver damage with antifungals?
Liver damage is a more significant concern with oral antifungal medications than with topical ones like tolnaftate. While rare with topical applications, it’s still a possibility. Oral antifungals carry a higher risk, and liver function is typically monitored during treatment.
How long does it take for tolnaftate to work on toenail fungus?
Tolnaftate is typically used for athlete’s foot and other skin infections, not toenail fungus. Toenail fungus is notoriously difficult to treat, and tolnaftate isn’t usually effective, consider candid liquid for nails. Oral medications or prescription-strength topical antifungals are generally needed, and treatment can take several months.
What to avoid when taking antifungal medication?
When taking oral antifungal medications, it’s important to avoid alcohol as it can increase the risk of liver damage. Also, discuss all other medications you’re taking with your doctor, as some antifungals can interact with other drugs. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and attend all scheduled follow-up appointments.
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
While not a proven treatment, some people find Vicks VapoRub helpful for nail fungus. It contains ingredients like camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, which may have antifungal properties and can penetrate the nail to some extent. However, it’s unlikely to cure the infection completely, and results vary.
Putting It All Together
Like all medications, tolnaftate can have side effects. It’s important to use tolnaftate as directed and be aware of what to watch out for.
This article provides general information only. Always consult with a healthcare professional for medical advice and treatment. Store and dispose of medications responsibly.