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Tolnaftate topical

Generic name: tolnaftate topical [ toll-NAF-tate ]
Brand names: Absorbine Athletes Foot, Absorbine Jr. Antifungal, Blis-To-Sol, Clarus Antifungal, Fungi-Guard, ... show all 36 brands
Dosage forms: topical cream (1%), topical powder (1%), topical solution (1%), topical spray (1%)
Drug class: Topical antifungals

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 10, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is tolnaftate topical?

Tolnaftate is an antifungal medication that fights infections caused by fungus.

Tolnaftate topical (for the skin) is used to treat infections such as athlete's foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), and ringworm (tinea corporis). Tolnaftate is also used with other antifungals to treat infections of the nails, scalp, palms, and soles of the feet.

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

Tolnaftate 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.

Stop using tolnaftate topical and call your doctor at once if you have skin irritation after applying tolnaftate topical.

Common side effects may include mild itching, dryness, or peeling of treated skin.

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 tolnaftate topical if you are allergic to it.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use tolnaftate topical if you have other medical conditions.

It is not known whether tolnaftate topical will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether tolnaftate topical passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

How should I use tolnaftate topical?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Do not take by mouth. Tolnaftate topical is for use only on the skin. Do not use this medicine on open wounds or on sunburned, windburned, dry, chapped, or irritated skin. If this medicine gets in your eyes, nose, mouth, rectum, or vagina, rinse with water.

Do not cover the treated skin area with a bandage that does not allow air circulation. You may use a light cotton-gauze dressing to protect your clothing over treated skin areas.

Wash your hands before and after applying this medicine, unless you are using it to treat a skin condition on your hands.

Clean and dry the skin before you apply tolnafate topical.

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

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

Tolnaftate topical dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Tinea Corporis:

Apply to the affected area once or twice a day for 2 to 4 weeks.

Usual Adult Dose for Tinea Cruris:

Apply to the affected area once or twice a day for 2 to 4 weeks.

Usual Adult Dose for Tinea Pedis:

Apply to the affected area once or twice a day for 2 to 4 weeks.

Usual Adult Dose for Tinea Versicolor:

Apply to the affected area once or twice a day for 2 to 4 weeks.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Tinea Corporis:

2 years or older: Apply to the affected area once or twice a day for 2 to 4 weeks.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Tinea Cruris:

2 years or older: Apply to the affected area once or twice a day for 2 to 4 weeks.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Tinea Pedis:

2 years or older: Apply to the affected area once or twice a day for 2 to 4 weeks.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Tinea Versicolor:

2 years or older: Apply to the affected area once or twice a day for 2 to 4 weeks.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of tolnaftate topical is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

What should I avoid while using tolnaftate topical?

Rinse with water if tolnaftate topical gets in your eyes.

Avoid tight-fitting synthetic clothing that does not allow air circulation. Wear loose-fitting clothing made of cotton and other natural fibers until your infection is healed.

What other drugs will affect tolnaftate topical?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on topically applied tolnaftate. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

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.