Stivel Cream is a topical antifungal medication formulated to address various fungal skin infections. Its primary active ingredient is ketoconazole, a broad-spectrum synthetic antifungal agent. Ketoconazole functions by disrupting the cell membranes of fungi, which is crucial for their survival and growth.
Conditions Stivel Treats
Stivel Cream treats a range of fungal and yeast infections affecting the skin. These include common conditions such as tinea corporis (ringworm), tinea cruris (jock itch), tinea pedis (athlete’s foot), pityriasis versicolor (“sun fungus”), and cutaneous candidiasis (skin yeast infection).
The cream’s antifungal properties are also beneficial in managing seborrheic dermatitis. This condition often results in dry, flaky, and itchy skin, and ketoconazole helps by reducing the presence of Malassezia ovalis (a yeast implicated in its development). Treatment duration varies depending on the specific infection, typically ranging from a few weeks to several weeks for complete clearing.
How to Apply Stivel
Proper application of Stivel Cream is important for its effectiveness and to prevent the spread of infection. Begin by thoroughly washing and drying the affected skin area, ensuring that any moisture, especially between toes for athlete’s foot, is completely removed.
Apply a thin layer of the cream to cover the infected area and a small margin of the surrounding healthy skin. Gently rub the cream into the skin until it is absorbed. The specific frequency and duration of application depend on the condition being treated; for instance, tinea infections and cutaneous candidiasis often require once-daily application for two weeks, while seborrheic dermatitis may need twice-daily application for up to four weeks. Athlete’s foot may require a longer treatment period, potentially up to six weeks.
Consistency is key, so continue using the cream for the full prescribed treatment period, even if symptoms begin to improve sooner. Stopping treatment too early might lead to the infection returning. After applying the cream, wash your hands thoroughly to avoid spreading the fungus to other parts of your body or to other people. If you are using other topical products, wait about 30 minutes after applying Stivel Cream before using them to allow for proper absorption.
Important Safety Information
While Stivel Cream is generally well-tolerated, understanding important safety information is crucial.
The cream is for external application only and should not be ingested or applied to the eyes, nose, mouth, or other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse the area with plenty of water.
Common side effects often involve local skin reactions at the application site, such as itching, burning sensations, or redness. If these symptoms worsen or do not improve within a few days, or if a rash appears, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Serious allergic reactions, though rare, can occur, manifesting as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Some formulations of ketoconazole cream contain sulfites, which can trigger allergic-type reactions, particularly in individuals with asthma or known sulfite sensitivity. Seek immediate medical attention if any signs of a serious allergic reaction develop.
Stivel Cream is contraindicated in individuals with hypersensitivity or allergy to ketoconazole or its ingredients. It should not be used on broken or severely irritated skin without medical advice.
For pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, it is generally considered acceptable to use topical ketoconazole cream as only tiny amounts are absorbed into the body, posing little risk. However, if applied to the breast or nipple area while breastfeeding, it should be washed off before feeding to prevent ingestion by the infant.
Safety and efficacy of ketoconazole cream have not been fully established in children under 12, and use in this population should be determined by a doctor.
Topical ketoconazole has few noted drug interactions, but inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are using. Certain practices can support treatment, such as wearing loose-fitting, cotton clothing or socks, and using absorbent powder between cream applications for conditions like jock itch or athlete’s foot.