Econate Cream

Indications

Econate is designed for topical use to treat various fungal infections, including:

• Tinea Pedis, Tinea Cruris, and Tinea Corporis: Effective against infections caused by Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Trichophyton tonsurans, Microsporum canis, Microsporum audouini, Microsporum gypseum, and Epidermophyton floccosum.
• Cutaneous Candidiasis: Targets skin fungal infections caused by Candida.
• Tinea Versicolor: Addresses discoloration of the skin due to fungal activity.

Always use this medication under the guidance of a registered healthcare professional.

Pharmacology

Econazole Nitrate disrupts fungal oxidative enzymes, leading to a harmful accumulation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). It also inhibits the synthesis of ergosterol, a crucial component of the fungal cell membrane, thereby undermining fungal integrity and function.

Dosage & Administration

• Econazole Vaginal Tablet: Insert one tablet deep into the vagina at bedtime for three consecutive nights. Continue treatment even if menstruation occurs. Although three nights may suffice, longer courses are recommended for women experiencing recurrent vaginal infections.
• Econazole 30 gm Cream: Fill the provided applicator with cream and insert it deeply into the vagina once or twice daily at bedtime.
• Econazole 10 gm Cream: Apply a small amount to the affected area once or twice daily until symptoms improve.

For skin infections such as tinea pedis, tinea cruris, tinea corporis, and tinea versicolor, apply enough cream to cover the affected areas once daily. For cutaneous candidiasis, apply twice daily (morning and evening). Most patients experience rapid relief from symptoms, with significant improvement noted shortly after beginning treatment. However, to prevent recurrence, treat candidal infections and tinea cruris and corporis for two weeks, and tinea pedis for one month. If symptoms persist after the treatment period, reevaluate the diagnosis. Patients with tinea versicolor typically show clinical and mycological improvement within two weeks of treatment.

Always use this medication under the guidance of a registered healthcare professional.

Interactions

• Warfarin: Using econazole with warfarin may enhance its anticoagulant effects. This risk is particularly noted with applications under occlusion, genital applications, or covering large skin areas, which could increase systemic absorption of econazole nitrate. Regular monitoring of International Normalized Ratio (INR) and prothrombin time is advisable for patients applying econazole to extensive or sensitive areas.

Carcinogenicity Studies

Long-term studies to assess the potential carcinogenic effects of econazole have not been conducted.

Contraindications

Econazole is contraindicated for individuals with known hypersensitivity to any of its components.

Side Effects

In clinical trials, around 3% of patients using Econate 1% cream reported side effects, primarily including burning, itching, stinging, and redness. A case of a pruritic rash has also been documented.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Intravaginal use of econazole nitrate has not demonstrated prolonged gestation or adverse reproductive effects in humans. It is classified as Pregnancy Category C, indicating that it should only be used during the first trimester if deemed essential by a physician. During the second and third trimesters, its use should be clearly justified.

It remains unclear whether econazole nitrate is excreted in human milk; thus, caution is recommended when administering it to nursing mothers.

Precautions & Warnings

Econate is strictly for external use and is not intended for ophthalmic application. Discontinue use if any sensitivity or irritation occurs. Avoid contact with the eyes.

Overdose Effects

No reported cases of Econate overdose in humans have been documented to date.

Therapeutic Class

• Topical Antifungal Preparations
• Drugs for Vaginal and Vulval Conditions

Storage Conditions

Store in a cool, dry place, away from children. Do not use after the expiration date. Dispense only with a prescription from a registered physician.