This is how to use Miconazole cream correctly (Miconazole Ointment)

With the heat and sweat in our country, skin infections are very common, aren't they? Especially fungal infections like ringworm and eczema can be very annoying at times. So, a medicine that doctors often prescribe for such fungal infections is Miconazole. Today, we will talk about this cream, how to use it, and everything you need to know in a simple way.

What is Miconazole?

Simply put, Miconazole is an antifungal medication. Just like antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, this is a medication that is used to control and kill fungal infections on the skin. We call these types of medications ``Antifungals''.

You may find this at the pharmacy under different brand names, such as `Fungoid` and `AZOLEN`, but they all contain the same active ingredient.

Things to tell your doctor before using this medicine

Before your doctor prescribes this medication, it's important for him to have a complete picture of your health. So be sure to tell him the following information.

• Other diseases you have:
• Diabetes: If you have diabetes, you should tell your doctor. This is because skin infections in people with diabetes take longer to heal and are more likely to develop complications.
• Immune-suppressing diseases: If your immune system is weakened due to conditions like HIV or AIDS, cancer treatment (chemotherapy), or any other reason, let us know.
• Allergies: Be sure to tell us if you have had any previous allergies to Miconazole, any other medication, food, or dye.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: You should also tell your doctor if you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding .
• Other infections: If you have a yeast or fungal infection of the vagina and it has not been previously diagnosed by a doctor, it is important to mention this as well.

Okay, now let's see how to use this exactly.

To get the full benefit of the medicine, you need to use it correctly. Let's see how to do this step by step.

1. This is only for application to the skin. It is not good to take it by mouth.

2. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after applying the medicine. However, if you are applying the medicine to an infection on your hands, wash your hands only before applying it.

3. Be careful not to get it in your eyes. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, immediately rinse your eyes thoroughly with clean water.

4. Use it exactly as your doctor tells you, for the number of times you are told. Don't use it more than that.

5. A mistake many people make is to stop taking the medicine when the pain subsides a little. Don't do that. Whatever number of days the doctor tells you to take it, you should use it for the entire period. Otherwise, if you stop, the infection may come back and be difficult to control.

6. When applying the medicine, apply it as a thin film, covering the infected area and the surrounding area. There is no need to apply it too thickly.

7. This is usually prescribed for children over 2 years of age for some conditions. However, when using it on children, be sure to follow the doctor's instructions exactly.

Things to be careful about when using the medicine

If your symptoms don't improve after you start using the medication, or if they seem to get worse, see your doctor again soon. Fungal infections love moisture, so it's important to dry your skin thoroughly after bathing.

It is very important to follow these instructions to prevent the infection from recurring.

Are there any side effects?

Like any medicine, this one can cause minor side effects in some people. But most people don't. Let's see what these are.

Some other important things to know

What if I forget to take my medicine?

What to do if you forget to take your medicine? Take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose because you forgot.

What if the medicine is used too much?

If you accidentally overdose on this medicine, or if someone drinks it, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

Will it interact with other medications?

This cream generally does not interact with other medications. However, do not apply any other cream or ointment to the infected area without consulting your doctor.

How do you store the medicine?

Keep this out of the reach of children and pets. It is best to store it at room temperature (between 15-30 Celsius). Ask your doctor about the correct way to dispose of expired or no longer needed medications.