Oxiconazole nitrate

Oxiconazole Nitrate is an antifungal medication used to treat skin infections such as athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm. It is a member of the azole family of antifungal drugs, which work by inhibiting the growth of fungi on the skin.

Pharmacology

Oxiconazole Nitrate works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, a key component of the fungal cell membrane. Without ergosterol, the fungal cell membrane becomes permeable and unstable, leading to the death of the fungus. Oxiconazole Nitrate is a broad-spectrum antifungal, meaning it is effective against a wide range of fungal species.

Uses

Oxiconazole Nitrate is primarily used to treat dermatophyte infections, which are fungal infections of the skin. These include conditions such as athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm. It may also be used to treat candidiasis, a yeast infection caused by the fungus Candida.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Oxiconazole Nitrate include skin irritation, burning, and redness at the application site. Less common side effects may include blistering, swelling, or oozing. If these side effects persist or worsen, patients are advised to contact their healthcare provider.

Precautions

Before using Oxiconazole Nitrate, patients should inform their healthcare provider if they have a history of allergic reactions to antifungal medications. It is also important to avoid contact with the eyes, nose, and mouth.

See Also

• Antifungal medication
• Azole
• Dermatophyte
• Candidiasis