On this page · 8 sections
Econazole Nitrate
Generic name: econazole topical
Brand names: Econazole Nitrate, Ecoza
What is Econazole Nitrate?
Econazole Nitrate (for the skin) is used to treat athlete's foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), and ringworm (tinea corporis). This medicine is also used to treat tinea versicolor (a fungus that discolors the skin) and yeast infections of the skin.
Econazole Nitrate may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Warnings
Follow all instructions on your medicine label and package. Inform each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you are taking.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Econazole Nitrate if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Econazole Nitrate is not approved for use by anyone younger than 12 years old.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Econazole Nitrate side effects
Get emergency medical help if you notice signs of an allergic reaction: hives; trouble breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor right away if you experience severe burning, redness, or stinging after using the medicine.
Common side effects of Econazole Nitrate may include:
- burning, itching, stinging, and redness.
This is not a full list of side effects and others may happen. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
How should I use Econazole Nitrate?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin.
Wash your hands before and after applying Econazole Nitrate. Clean and dry the affected area.
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.
To treat athlete's foot: Apply the medicine to the affected areas and nearby skin once per day for 1 month.
To treat jock itch, ringworm, or tinea versicolor: Apply the medicine to the affected areas and nearby skin once per day for 2 weeks.
To treat yeast infections of the skin: Apply the medicine to the affected areas and nearby skin twice per day for 2 weeks.
Do not cover the treated skin area unless your doctor tells you to. Bandaging can increase the amount of drug absorbed through your skin and may cause harmful effects.
Use this medicine for the full prescribed length of time, even if your symptoms quickly improve. Skipping doses can increase your risk of infection that is resistant to medication. Econazole Nitrate will not treat a bacterial infection.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.
Do not share this medication with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use.
Econazole Nitrate foam is flammable. Do not use near high heat or open flame. Do not store in direct sunlight. Do not smoke until the foam has completely dried on your skin.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the medicine as soon as possible, but skip the missed dose if it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at once.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Avoid getting Econazole Nitrate in your eyes or in your vagina.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
What other drugs will affect Econazole Nitrate?
Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:
- a blood thinner--warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven;
This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect Econazole Nitrate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.
This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.
Related medicines
Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.