With the heat and humidity in our country, fungal infections of the skin are a common occurrence for many people, right? So your doctor may have prescribed a cream or gel called Naftifine for this type of fungal skin infection. It usually comes under brand names like Naftin. So today, let's talk about this medicine, how to use it, and what you need to be careful about.
What kind of medicine is Naftifine?
Simply put, Naftifine is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called antifungals. It works by killing certain types of fungi and yeast infections on your skin and restoring it to its normal state. It can come in the form of a cream or a gel.
Things to tell your doctor before use
Before you start using this medicine, you should definitely tell your doctor about these things.
- Tell your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to Naftifine or any other medicine, food, or dye .
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, let us know.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother, don't forget to mention that too.
How exactly do I use this medicine?
To get the most out of a medicine, you need to use it correctly. Follow these steps.
1. For topical use only: This is a topical medication only. Do not take it orally or ingest it in any other way for any reason.
2. Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after applying the medicine. However, if you are applying the medicine to your hands or nails for an infection, wash your hands only before applying the medicine.
3. Apply correctly: Apply the medicine thinly in the required amount to completely cover the infected area and the surrounding skin.
4. Do not cover: Unless specifically instructed to do so by your doctor, do not cover the area where the medication was applied with a bandage or anything else. Leave the area open to allow the skin to breathe.
5. Be careful with your eyes: Do not let it get into your eyes. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, rinse thoroughly with water.
6. Complete the prescribed period: This is the most important thing. Even if you feel better, use it for the full period of time that your doctor tells you to use it. Otherwise, if you stop halfway, there is a high chance that the infection will come back. Do not stop taking the medicine without your doctor's advice.
7. If you miss a dose: If you forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time.
The most important thing is that this medicine is for you only. Never give your medicine to others. Even if their symptoms are the same as yours, it is not a good idea to do so, as it may harm them.
Use for young children
This medicine is sometimes prescribed by doctors for skin infections in children over 2 years of age. However, this should be decided by your doctor. Therefore, if you are using this on a child, talk to your pediatrician about it and get advice.
Special things to be careful of when using
These tips will help you heal your infection quickly.
- If there is no improvement: If your symptoms do not improve after 2-4 weeks of taking the medication, or if the condition seems to be getting worse, be sure to tell your doctor.
- If wounds develop: If wounds or blisters develop where the medicine was applied and they do not heal properly, tell your doctor.
For groin infections (Jock Itch)...
If you are using this medicine for a fungal infection of the groin, do not wear tight underwear. Especially avoid those made of synthetic fabrics such as nylon or rayon. Instead, wear loose, cotton underwear that is well-ventilated. Dry the area thoroughly after bathing.
For foot infections (Athlete's Foot)...
If you are using this for fungal infections on the feet and between the toes, consider these things as well.
- After bathing, dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes .
- Avoid wearing socks made of wool or synthetic fabrics. Wear clean cotton socks. Change your socks several times a day if you sweat.
- Wear well-ventilated shoes or sandals.
- To keep your feet dry, you can also use something like talcum powder between applications of medication.
Possible side effects of this medicine
Like all medications, some people may experience minor side effects. Most of the time, these are not serious.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Things to inform your doctor immediately | |
| Skin rash and itching | If you develop a new rash or severe itching where you applied the medicine or elsewhere, this could be a sign of an allergy. |
| Things to tell your doctor if it persists or is bothersome | |
| A burning sensation | A burning sensation or pain on the skin after applying the medicine. |
| Dry skin | Dry skin in the area where the medicine is applied. |
| Skin irritation | Redness or other discomfort in the area where the medicine is applied. |
What if I accidentally use too much?
Since this medicine is a topical preparation, serious poisoning is rare. However, if someone accidentally ingests it or if you think they have used too much, do not panic and immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital (telephone number 0112 686 143). Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Take-Home Message
- Naftifine is a topical antifungal only. Never take it by mouth.
- Even if you feel better, take the medicine for the full duration prescribed by the doctor.
- If your symptoms do not improve or worsen after several weeks of use, see your doctor again.
- This medicine is for you only. Do not share your medicine with others.
- Always keep medicine in a safe place out of the reach of small children. Throw it away after it has expired.
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