Usage
This combination medication is prescribed for the topical treatment of fungal skin infections, such as:
- Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis)
- Jock itch (tinea cruris)
- Ringworm (tinea corporis)
Pharmacological Classification: Antifungal (allylamine class) and topical anesthetic.
Mechanism of Action: Naftifine inhibits squalene epoxidase, a crucial enzyme in fungal ergosterol biosynthesis. This disrupts the fungal cell membrane, leading to cell death. Benzyl alcohol provides local anesthesia, relieving itching and discomfort. It also acts as a preservative in the cream formulation.
Alternate Names
- Naftifast Cream
- Nafbor 2% Cream
How It Works
Pharmacodynamics: Naftifine’s antifungal action stems from squalene epoxidase inhibition. This enzyme is essential for ergosterol synthesis, a vital component of fungal cell membranes. Its inhibition causes squalene accumulation and ergosterol deficiency, disrupting membrane integrity and resulting in fungal cell death. Benzyl alcohol provides a local anesthetic effect, relieving itching and pain.
Pharmacokinetics: Topical application leads to minimal systemic absorption of both naftifine and benzyl alcohol.
Mode of Action: Naftifine inhibits squalene epoxidase.
Receptor Binding, Enzyme Inhibition, or Neurotransmitter Modulation: Inhibits the enzyme squalene epoxidase.
Elimination Pathways: Primarily through hepatic metabolism, with minimal renal excretion due to low systemic absorption.
Dosage
Standard Dosage
Adults: Apply a thin layer to the affected skin and surrounding area once daily for two weeks.
Children:
- 2 years and older: Apply a thin layer once daily to the affected area and surrounding area for two weeks (for tinea corporis).
- 12 years and older: Apply a thin layer once daily to the affected area and surrounding area for two weeks (for tinea cruris and tinea pedis).
- Under 2 years (tinea corporis) and under 12 years (tinea cruris and tinea pedis): Safety and effectiveness not established. Consult a doctor.
Special Cases:
- Elderly Patients: No specific dosage adjustments are needed unless renal or hepatic impairment is present.
- Patients with Renal Impairment: No adjustments needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
- Patients with Hepatic Dysfunction: No adjustments needed due to minimal systemic absorption.
- Patients with Comorbid Conditions: No specific adjustments recommended.
Clinical Use Cases
This medication is not indicated for:
- Intubation
- Surgical Procedures
- Mechanical Ventilation
- Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Use
- Emergency Situations
It is exclusively for topical dermatological use.
Dosage Adjustments
Discontinue use if skin irritation develops and consult a physician. No dose adjustments are recommended for renal/hepatic issues or metabolic disorders due to minimal systemic absorption.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Burning
- Stinging
- Dryness
- Itching
- Redness
- Irritation at the application site
Rare but Serious Side Effects
- Severe skin reactions (e.g., blistering, swelling, oozing)
- Allergic reactions
Long-Term Effects
No long-term systemic effects are expected due to limited systemic absorption.
Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR)
Contact dermatitis or allergic reactions may occur. Discontinue use and consult a physician if they appear.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to naftifine, benzyl alcohol, or any component of the formulation.
Drug Interactions
Clinically significant interactions are unlikely due to low systemic absorption.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult a healthcare professional before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Safety and effectiveness during these periods have not been conclusively established.
Drug Profile Summary
- Mechanism of Action: Naftifine inhibits squalene epoxidase, disrupting fungal cell membrane synthesis. Benzyl alcohol provides local anesthesia and antiseptic action.
- Side Effects: Common: Burning, stinging, dryness, itching, redness, irritation. Rare: Severe skin reactions, allergic reactions.
- Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to naftifine or benzyl alcohol.
- Drug Interactions: Clinically significant interactions are unlikely.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Consult a physician before use.
- Dosage: Apply a thin layer once daily for two weeks to the affected area.
- Monitoring Parameters: Observe the application site for local reactions.
Popular Combinations
No established popular drug combinations utilizing this specific fixed-dose combination exist.
Precautions
- General Precautions: Screen for allergies to components.
- Pregnant Women: Consult a physician; safety and effectiveness not established.
- Breastfeeding Mothers: Consult a physician; safety and effectiveness not established.
- Children & Elderly: Use as directed, noting age restrictions for specific infections.
- Lifestyle Considerations: No specific lifestyle restrictions apply.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What is the recommended dosage for Benzyl Alcohol + Naftifine Hydrochloride?
A: Apply a thin layer to the affected area once daily for two weeks. Children 2 years and older can use it for tinea corporis, and children 12 and older can use it for tinea cruris and tinea pedis.
Q2: What conditions does this medication treat?
A: It treats fungal skin infections like athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm.
Q3: How does naftifine work?
A: Naftifine inhibits squalene epoxidase, disrupting fungal cell membrane synthesis and leading to fungal cell death.
Q4: What is the role of benzyl alcohol in this cream?
A: Benzyl alcohol acts as a local anesthetic, relieving itching and discomfort. It also acts as a preservative.
Q5: Can I use this cream if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
A: Consult a healthcare professional before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Q6: What are the common side effects?
A: Common side effects include burning, stinging, dryness, itching, redness, and irritation at the application site.
Q7: What should I do if a severe skin reaction occurs?
A: Discontinue use immediately and consult a physician.
Q8: Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
A: Clinically significant interactions are unlikely due to the minimal systemic absorption of this topical medication.
Q9: How long does treatment usually last?
A: Treatment usually lasts for two weeks.
Q10: Can I use this cream on my child?
A: For children 2 years and older, it can be used for tinea corporis. For children 12 and older, it can be used for tinea cruris and tinea pedis. Consult a doctor for use in younger children.
