Tolnaftate topical is an antifungal medication. Tolnaftate topical prevents fungus from growing on the skin.

Tolnaftate topical is used to treat skin infections such as athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm infections. Tolnaftate is also used, along with other antifungals, to treat infections of the nails, scalp, palms, and soles of the feet. The powder and powder aerosol may be used to prevent athlete’s foot.

Tolnaftate topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Use tolnaftate topical exactly as directed by your doctor or follow the directions that accompany the package. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Wash your hands before and after using this medication.

Clean and dry the affected area. Apply the gel, cream, lotion, spray, or powder twice daily as directed for 2 to 6 weeks.

Use this medication for the full amount of time prescribed by your doctor or as recommended in the package even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely healed.

If the infection does not clear up in 10 days or if it appears to get worse, see your doctor.

Do not use bandages or dressings that do not allow air circulation over the affected area (occlusive dressings) unless otherwise directed by your doctor. A light cotton-gauze dressing may be used to protect clothing.

Avoid getting this medication in the eyes, nose, or mouth.

Store tolnaftate topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Other skin medications may affect the absorption or effectiveness of tolnaftate topical. Avoid using other topicals at the same time except under the direction of a doctor.

Avoid wearing tight-fitting, synthetic clothing that doesn’t allow air circulation. Wear loose-fitting clothing made of cotton and other natural fibers until the infection is healed.

An overdose of tolnaftate topical is unlikely to occur. If you do suspect that a much larger than normal dose has been used or that tolnaftate topical has been ingested, contact an emergency room or a poison control center.

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the dose you missed and apply only the regular amount of tolnaftate topical. Do not use a double dose unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Use this medication for the full amount of time prescribed by your doctor or as recommended in the package even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely healed.

Do not use bandages or dressings that do not allow air to circulate to the affected area (occlusive dressings) unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Wear loose-fitting clothing (preferably cotton).

Avoid getting this medication in the eyes, nose, or mouth.

Do not use tolnaftate topical if you have had an allergic reaction to it in the past.

It is not known whether tolnaftate topical will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use tolnaftate topical without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether tolnaftate topical passes into breast milk. Do not use tolnaftate topical without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Your pharmacist has additional information about tolnaftate topical written for health professionals that you may read.

Tolnaftate topical is available over the counter under many brand and generic names in 1% cream, solution, ointment, gel, powder, spray powder, and spray liquid formulations. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.