Tolnaftate, Topical

What are other names for this medicine?

Type of medicine: antifungal

Generic and brand names: tolnaftate, topical; Aftate; Genaspor; Lamisil AF; Quinsana Plus; Tinactin; Ting (There may be other brand names for this medicine.)

What is this medicine used for?

This medicine is used on the skin to treat fungus infections such as athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm.

What should my healthcare provider know before I take this medicine?

Tell your healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine.

Females of childbearing age: Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Do not breast-feed while using this medicine without your healthcare provider's approval.

How do I use it?

Use this medicine exactly as your healthcare provider prescribes. If your healthcare provider has not given you specific instructions, follow the directions that come with the medicine package. Do not use more or use it longer than prescribed. Use it regularly for as long as directed, even if you start to feel better. The infection may return if you stop using the medicine too soon. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about anything you do not understand.

Wash your hands before and after using this medicine. Before applying this medicine, wash the skin around the affected area with mild soap and warm water. Dry your hands and pat the affected area dry. Do not reuse the towel you dried the area with as it might spread the infection.

If using the cream, ointment, lotion, or solution, apply a thin layer to the affected area and rub it in gently. When using the powder, apply it between your toes and on your feet and sprinkle some in your socks and shoes.

Use the aerosols as directed on the can. Shake the can before using. Do not use near heat or an open flame, or while you are smoking. Do not breathe in the aerosol after spraying.

When you are using this medicine for fungus infections of the feet, wear white cotton socks and keep your feet dry and well-ventilated. Change your socks daily or more often if your feet sweat a lot. Do not bandage the area unless your healthcare provider tells you to do so.

This medicine is for external use only. Avoid getting the medicine in or on your eyes, mouth or nose. If you accidentally get it in these areas, rinse the area well with cool water right away.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and use the next one as directed. Do not use double doses. If you are not sure of what to do if you miss a dose, or if you miss more than one dose, contact your healthcare provider.

What if I overdose?

An acute overdose of this medicine is not likely to cause life-threatening symptoms. If you think that you or anyone else may have taken too much of this medicine, call the poison control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I watch out for?

If your symptoms do not improve in a month (2 weeks for jock itch) or if they get worse, contact your healthcare provider.

What are the possible side effects?

Along with its needed effects, your medicine may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Common: Skin irritation, mild stinging when used.

What products might interact with this medicine?

No significant drug interactions have been reported. However, do not use other products on the areas of the skin being treated with this medicine unless your healthcare provider approves.

Keep a list of all your medicines with you. List all the prescription medicines, nonprescription medicines, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins that you take. Be sure that you tell all healthcare providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.

How should I store this medicine?

Store this medicine at room temperature. Store it in a safe place away from other medicines that are swallowed. Keep the container tightly closed. Protect it from heat, high humidity, and bright light.

This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this medicine or interactions with other medicines. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.

Ask your pharmacist for the best way to dispose of outdated medicine or medicine you have not used. Do not throw medicine in the trash.

Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.

Do not share medicines with other people.