Naftifine hydrochloride topical (patient information)

Why is this medication prescribed?

Naftifine is used for skin infections such as athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used

Naftifine comes as a cream and gel to apply to the skin. The cream is usually used once a day and the gel twice a day in the morning and evening for 2 to 4 weeks. Some infections require up to 6 weeks of treatment. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use naftifine exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Thoroughly clean the infected area, allow it to dry, and then gently rub the medication in until most of it disappears. Use just enough medication to cover the affected area. You should wash your hands after applying the medication.

Continue to use naftifine even if you feel well. Do not stop using naftifine without talking to your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow

Before using naftifine

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to naftifine or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking, including vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using naftifine, call your doctor.

What should I do if I forget a dose

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Side effects

Naftifine may cause side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• itching
• burning
• irritation or stinging
• redness
• dryness
• rash

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

What other information should I know

Keep all appointments with your doctor. Naftifine is for external use only. Do not let naftifine get into your eyes, nose or mouth, and do not swallow it. Do not apply dressings, bandages, cosmetics, lotions, or other skin medications to the area being treated unless your doctor tells you.

Do not let anyone else use your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. If you still have symptoms of infection after you finish the naftifine, call your doctor.

Brand names

• Naftin®