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Econazole topical

Generic name: econazole topical [ ee-CON-a-zole ]
Brand names: Econazole Nitrate, Ecoza, Spectazole
Dosage forms: topical cream (1%), topical foam (1%)
Drug class: Topical antifungals

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jan 17, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is econazole topical?

Econazole topical (for the skin) is used to treat athlete's foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), and ringworm (tinea corporis). Econazole topical is also used to treat tinea versicolor (a fungus that discolors the skin), and yeast infections of the skin.

Econazole topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Econazole topical side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have severe burning, redness, or stinging after applying the medicine.

Common side effects of econazole topical may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use econazole topical if you are allergic to it.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Econazole topical is not approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years old.

How should I use econazole topical?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.

Wash your hands before and after applying econazole topical. Clean and dry the affected area.

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.

To treat athlete's foot: Apply the medicine to the affected areas and nearby skin once per day for 1 month.

To treat jock itch, ringworm, or tinea versicolor: Apply the medicine to the affected areas and nearby skin once per day for 2 weeks.

To treat yeast infections of the skin: Apply the medicine to the affected areas and nearby skin twice per day for 2 weeks.

Do not cover the treated skin area unless your doctor tells you to. Bandaging can increase the amount of drug absorbed through your skin and may cause harmful effects.

Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses can increase your risk of infection that is resistant to medication. Econazole topical will not treat a bacterial infection.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.

Do not share this medication with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use.

Econazole topical foam is flammable. Do not use near high heat or open flame. Do not store in direct sunlight. Do not smoke until the foam has completely dried on your skin.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while using econazole topical?

Avoid getting econazole topical in your eyes or in your vagina.

What other drugs will affect econazole topical?

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect econazole topical, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.