Generic
Miconazole Nitrate
1 brands available in the market
At a glance
Miconazole Nitrate is an antifungal medicine used for the treatment of skin fungal infections such as athlete's foot, tinea corporis, tinea cruris, and candidal infections.
Description
Miconazole Nitrate is an imidazole antifungal that inhibits a demethylation step in ergosterol biosynthesis, damaging the fungal cell wall membrane. It has antifungal activity against common dermatophytes and yeasts, and antibacterial activity against certain gram-positive bacilli and cocci.
Indications
- Tinea pedis (Athlete's foot)
- Tinea corporis (Ringworm)
- Tinea cruris (Dhobie itch)
- Tinea versicolor
- Candidal infections
- Skin infections (intertrigo)
- Perianal infections
- Stomatitis angularis
- Balanoposthitis
- Otitis externa
Therapeutic class
Other Antifungal Preparations
Pharmacological class
Imidazole Antifungal
Pharmacology
Miconazole inhibits a demethylation step in ergosterol biosynthesis. Ergosterol is the main sterol in fungi. Disruption in ergosterol production creates holes in the fungal cell membrane, allowing essential constituents to leak out. It is effective against common dermatophytes and yeasts.
Mechanism of action
Prevents fungal growth by destroying the fungal cell wall.
Dosage
Cream Dose:
- Tinea pedis, tinea cruris, tinea corporis & cutaneous candidiasis: Twice daily (morning and evening)
- Tinea versicolor: Once daily
- Apply sparingly in intertriginous areas
- Continue for 2 weeks (tinea cruris & corporis) or 1 month (tinea pedis) after symptoms resolve
Oral Gel: Adults and children ≥2 years: 2.5 ml 4 times daily; 4-24 months: 1.25 ml 4 times daily
Administration
- Apply sufficient cream to cover affected areas
- Apply sparingly and smooth in well in intertriginous areas
- Continue treatment for the prescribed duration even after symptoms resolve
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember; skip if it's almost time for the next dose; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Side Effects:
- Nausea and vomiting (occasionally)
- Diarrhea with long-term use
- Allergic reactions (rare)
Precautions & warnings
- For external use only (cream)
- Monitor anticoagulant effect when used with anticoagulants
- Monitor phenytoin plasma levels when used concomitantly
- Caution in pregnancy and lactation
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Miconazole or components
Drug interactions
- Terfenadine, Astemizole, Cisapride: May inhibit metabolism (avoid)
- Phenytoin: Delays metabolism, may precipitate toxicity
- Cyclosporine: May precipitate toxicity
- Warfarin: Increased anticoagulant effect
Food interactions
Food interaction not found.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Safety information not available. Avoid if possible or weigh benefits against risks.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Many drugs are excreted in breast milk. Caution advised.
Pediatric use
Pediatric dose: 4-24 months: 1.25 ml 4 times daily; ≥2 years: 2.5 ml 4 times daily
Geriatric use
No specific dose adjustment for elderly.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Elimination half-life is similar in renal impaired patients.
Hepatic Impairment: Caution advised.
Overdose effects
Accidental overdosage may cause vomiting and diarrhea. Symptomatic and supportive treatment.
Storage conditions
Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Miconazole Nitrate