Tolnaftate is an over-the-counter antifungal medication that inhibits the growth and spread of fungi on the skin.
Conditions Tolnaftate Treats
Tolnaftate is effective against common superficial fungal infections of the skin. It treats conditions such as athlete’s foot, medically known as tinea pedis, which causes itching, burning, and cracking between the toes and on the soles of the feet. Another condition it addresses is jock itch, or tinea cruris, characterized by an itchy, red rash in the groin and upper thigh areas. The medication also treats ringworm, or tinea corporis, which manifests as a circular, scaly rash on the body. These infections are caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments.
Mechanism of Action
Tolnaftate functions by interfering with the fungal cell’s ability to produce ergosterol, a compound essential for building and maintaining its cell membrane. Specifically, it inhibits an enzyme called squalene epoxidase, which is a key player in the ergosterol biosynthesis pathway. By blocking this enzyme, tolnaftate prevents the formation of ergosterol and leads to the accumulation of squalene within the fungal cell.
The disruption of ergosterol synthesis weakens the fungal cell membrane, making it permeable and unable to maintain its internal environment. This compromised membrane integrity causes essential cellular components to leak out, ultimately leading to the death of the fungal cell. The buildup of squalene also contributes to the antifungal effect by becoming toxic to the fungus. Tolnaftate is considered both fungistatic, meaning it inhibits fungal growth, and fungicidal, meaning it kills the fungus.
Proper Use and Considerations
When using tolnaftate, it is important to first clean and thoroughly dry the affected skin area. A thin layer of the medication should then be gently rubbed onto the skin, covering the entire affected area. Tolnaftate is applied twice a day, in the morning and evening.
Tolnaftate is available in various forms, including creams, powders, and sprays, allowing for different application preferences. Treatment duration varies, but for athlete’s foot and ringworm, it is recommended to continue use for up to four weeks, and for jock itch, up to two weeks. Even if symptoms improve, continuing the treatment for the recommended period is important to help ensure the infection is fully cleared.
This medication is for external use only and should not come into contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth. If symptoms persist or worsen after the recommended treatment period, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.