econazole

Econazole is used to treat a variety of fungal skin infections such as athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm. This medication is also used to treat a skin condition known as pityriasis (tinea versicolor), a fungal infection that causes a lightening or darkening of the skin of the neck, chest, arms, or legs. Econazole is an azole antifungal that works by preventing the growth of fungus.

Use this medication on the skin only. Clean and thoroughly dry the area to be treated. Apply this medication on and around the affected area as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice a day. The dosage and length of treatment depend on the type of infection being treated. Do not apply this medication more often or use for longer than prescribed.

Wash your hands after using unless the area being treated includes the hands. Do not wrap, cover, or bandage the area unless directed to do so by your doctor.

Do not apply this medication in the eyes, nose, or mouth, or inside the vagina. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.

Continue to use this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts after 2 weeks of treatment (or after 4 weeks of treatment for athlete's foot) or if it gets worse.

Burning, stinging, irritation, or redness at the application site may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using econazole, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other azole antifungals (such as clotrimazole, ketoconazole, miconazole); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Store at room temperature. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Do not share this medication with others.

This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another infection unless your doctor tells you to.

When treating pityriasis, this medication may not cause a return to normal skin color right away. It may take several months after treatment is completed for your natural skin color to return.