#Antifungal cream otc skin

They inhibit the enzyme squalene epoxidase which converts squalene into ergosterol, disrupting synthesis of the fungal cell wall. Note that nystatin is not effective against dermatophyte infections but can be used to treat Candida infections.Īllylamines work in a similar way to azoles but have their effect earlier on in the ergosterol synthesis pathway. Nystatin is the only polyene antifungal available topically. Polyenes work by binding to ergosterol, disrupting the integrity of the fungal cell membrane. Although all azoles work in the same way (by inhibiting an enzyme that converts lanosterol into ergosterol), there are differences in the spectrum of activity between imidazoles and triazoles.Īzole antifungals are metabolized through cytochrome p450 liver enzymes and are particularly susceptible to clinically-significant drug interactions with other medications metabolized through the same pathway, although this tends to only apply to topical products used inside the mouth, such as miconazole oral gel. Azole antifungalsĪzole antifungals are further classified into imidazoles and triazoles. Note that only the antifungals that are available topically are listed here. Many topical antifungals work by inhibiting production of ergosterol, a fundamental component of the fungal cell membrane and wall. What are the differences between topical antifungals?Īntifungal agents may be classified into a number of different types, depending on their structure and the way that they work. Other fungal infections not listed here may also be treated with topical antifungals.

Tinea pedis (fungal infection of the foot).

Tinea manuum (fungal infection of the hands).Tinea capitis (fungal infection of the scalp).Tinea barbae ( fungal infection of the beard and mustache area).Pityriasis versicolor (causes flaky, discolored patches of skin).Examples of infections that topical antifungals may treat include: Topical antifungals may be used to treat fungal infections of the skin, scalp, mucous membranes, nails, and vagina. Most antifungal agents treat both dermatophyte and yeast infections however, some, such as nystatin, are not suitable for dermatophyte fungal infections. Molds are an uncommon cause of fungal infections but they can cause tinea nigra (painless brown or black patches on the skin) or hard-to-treat nail infections.

#Antifungal cream otc skin

Yeasts are normal inhabitants of our skin but sometimes they grow unheeded which can result in symptomatic infections. There are about 40 different species of dermatophyte, and they obtain their nutrients from keratinized material, so typically are the organisms responsible for fungal infections of the skin, scalp or nails. They are available as creams, gels, lotions, nail lacquers, ointments, powders, shampoos, sprays, and tinctures.įungal infections are caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, or molds. Topical antifungals are products that treat fungal infections and which are applied directly to the skin, nails, or hair vaginally or inside the mouth.