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Butenafine (On the skin)

Introduction:

Butenafine (bue-TEN-a-feen)

Treats athlete's foot and other fungal infections of the skin.

Brand Name(s):

Mentax

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to butenafine. Tell your doctor if you have had an allergic reaction to medicines that are like butenafine such as terbinafine (Lamisil®) or naftifine (Naftin®).

How to Use This Medicine:

Cream

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use and how often. Keep using the medicine for as long as your doctor has told you to, even if you think your symptoms are gone. If you stop using the medicine too soon, your infection may come back.
  • Use this medicine on your skin only. Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina. If you do get the medicine in your eyes, rinse them well with cool water. Tell your doctor if redness or eye pain does not go away.
  • For treating athlete's foot, you may want to use the medicine after bathing. Thoroughly dry your feet and between your toes with a clean towel before putting on the medicine.
  • Put a thin layer of the medicine over and around the infected area, and rub it in.
  • Do not cover the infected area with bandages, unless your doctor has told you to.
  • Use the medicine on both feet if you have athlete's foot.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water after putting on the medicine.

If a dose is missed:

  • Use the cream as soon as possible, unless it is almost time for your next dose.
  • Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
  • Do not apply two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Do not freeze.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • You should not use other medicines on the same area of your skin that you are using butenafine, unless your doctor tells you to.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
  • If your symptoms do not get better after about 3 to 4 weeks, tell your doctor. Tell your doctor right away if your symptoms get worse (more redness, blisters, itching, or sores) after using this medicine.
  • This medicine will only treat certain kinds of infections You should not use it to treat other skin conditions such as diaper rash or vaginal infections.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Itching, rash, swelling, blisters, or redness that were not there before you used this medicine

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Mild stinging or burning where the medicine is put on your skin
  • Reviewed last on: 1/4/2010
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