<- return to articles

Tolnaftate – Treating Fungal Infections

One of the most common problems that athletes, like runners, encounter is fungus and yeast infections.  There are many forms of fungus and yeasts that one may become infected with, such as nail fungus and of course, athlete’s foot. There are a wide variety of treatments to select from, some are home remedies using common ingredients from your kitchen, others may require a doctor’s prescription and there are many that are over the counter treatments, one can purchase at the local drug store.  One such medication is tolnaftate. Tolnaftate is the generic name for many over the counter medications such as Absorbine Athletes Foot, Absorbine Jr., Aftate for Athletes Foot, Desenex, Lamisil, Tinactin and others.  Tolnaftate is primarily used in a cream, powder, spray, or liquid aerosol form. 

Though tolnaftate is primarily used for treating athlete’s foot, it is also used for treating jock itch and some types of ringworm. Athlete’s foot is a skin infection that is caused by the Trichophyton fungus. It can occur anywhere on the body, though the feet are one of the predominant areas since the ideal conditions of moisture and warmth are found there. It can be a contagious infection, that can be easily spread from person to person, but that is not always the case. Some people are more susceptible to catching the infection than others.

Tolnaftate comes in a topical form and it should be used as described by your doctor or per the instructions that come with the medication.  Usually the medication is applied to the clean and dry area that is infected.  It is usually applied twice a day.  The directions will inform of the length of time to use this medication.  It is important that if there are not signs that the infection is clearing up after ten days that medical attention is sought.

There are not many side effects associated with this medication, but if there are any unusual skin conditions such as blistering, itching, redness, drying or peeling of the skin that occurs, one should stop using the medication and seek the advice of a physician. As with any drug, persons who are taking or planning to take tolnaftate who have diseases such as diabetes, immune system problems or peripheral vascular disease should consult with their physician or healthcare worker.  It is also recommended that if a person has allergies or unusual reactions to medications, tolnaftate, foods, dyes, or preservatives that they consult with their physician before using this medication.