Fungal infections of the skin are very common in our country's climate. You may also suffer from things like 'ringworm' (Tinea versicolor), 'dermatitis' in the groin, and between the fingers. So, a cream called Butenafine that doctors often prescribe for such fungal infections, and which is also available in pharmacies, is a medicine. You may have come across it under brand names like Lotrimin and Mentax. Today, we will simply talk about this medicine, the correct way to use it, and everything you need to know.
What is Butenafine?
Simply put, Butenafine is an antifungal . This means that this cream can kill fungus or yeast infections that grow on the surface of our skin and stop them from spreading.
But one thing must be kept in mind. This medicine only cures infections caused by fungi. It has no effect on skin diseases caused by bacteria or viruses.
Things to tell your doctor before using this cream
It is very important that your doctor is aware of these facts before a doctor prescribes this medication for you, or before you buy it from a pharmacy.
- If you have allergies: Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any allergies to butenafine or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant: It is essential to ask your doctor before using any medication during these times.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: Some medications can pass to the baby through breast milk, so inform your doctor about this as well.
Okay, now let's see how to use this exactly.
To get the most out of this, it's important to use it correctly. Let's take a step-by-step look at it.
1. For topical use only: This is not a medicine to be taken orally. Do not put it in your mouth or swallow it for any reason.
2. Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after applying the cream. However, if you are applying the medicine to an infection on your hands, wash your hands only before applying it.
3. Apply a thin layer: Apply a thin layer that completely covers the infected area and a small area around it, allowing the skin to absorb it . Applying too thickly will not heal the area as quickly.
4. If you are applying a bandage: After applying the medicine, you can cover it with a sterile gauze dressing if you want. But never cover it with an airtight bandage like plastic. Because fungi love moisture and an airtight environment. Doing so can make the disease worse.
5. Do not let it get into your eyes: If you accidentally get it in your eyes, immediately rinse them thoroughly with clean water.
6. Complete the prescribed period: This is a mistake that many people make. No matter how many days the doctor tells you to apply the medicine, you should apply the medicine for the entire period. Do not stop applying it just because the itching and redness have subsided in two or three days. If you stop, the chances of the disease reappearing are high because not all the fungi on the skin surface have died.
About use in children
Although children over the age of 12 can use this for some conditions, be sure to talk to your doctor about it and only use it under his or her advice.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you or someone else accidentally uses too much of this, or if it gets into your mouth, immediately go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
What do you do if you forget to take your medicine?
Take the medicine as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take it at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.
Things to be careful about when using
While taking this medicine, if you make some small changes to your lifestyle, you can quickly cure the infection and prevent it from recurring.
- Keep your skin dry: After bathing, pat your skin dry, especially in areas where there are folds, such as your fingers, groin, and armpits. Fungi love moisture.
- Clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothes made from natural fabrics like cotton. Synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester do not absorb sweat and can encourage the growth of fungus. Always wear clean, laundered clothes.
- For Athlete's Foot: If treating athlete's foot, dry between the toes thoroughly. Wear cotton socks, changing them at least once a day. Wear well-ventilated shoes or sandals.
- For jock itch: If you are treating jock itch, avoid wearing tight underwear. Choose loose-fitting underwear made of cotton. Dry the area thoroughly after bathing.
Side effects that may occur due to this medicine
Like any medicine, this one can cause minor side effects in some people. But there's nothing to worry about. Most of these are minor.
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Severe allergies that require immediate attention | If you experience symptoms such as a skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, or difficulty breathing, these may be signs of a serious allergic reaction. Stop using the medicine immediately and see your doctor. |
| Other side effects of the medication | You may experience some skin irritation, itching, dryness, redness, or peeling after using the medication. These usually go away within a few days. However, if they persist or bother you, tell your doctor. |
How should you store your medicine?
- Keep away from children and pets.
- Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Protect from excessive heat or cold.
- Properly dispose of expired or no longer needed medications. Consult your doctor for advice.
Take-Home Message
- Butenafine is a medication used only for fungal infections. It does not work for bacterial or viral infections.
- Even if your symptoms subside, take the medicine for the full duration prescribed by your doctor.
- Always keep the infected area and surrounding skin clean and dry. Wear cotton clothing.
- If severe allergic symptoms (facial swelling, difficulty breathing) occur, seek medical advice immediately.
- If you have any questions about this medication or your skin condition, always talk to your doctor.
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