
Medicine overview
Indications of Fungitac
Fungitac is a topical imidazole (benzothiophene-imidazole) antifungal indicated for the treatment of superficial fungal skin infections.
FDA-Approved Indication
- Interdigital tinea pedis (athlete's foot) caused by Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, or Epidermophyton floccosum, in patients 12 years of age and older.
Other Guideline-Supported / Internationally Labeled Uses
In markets outside the United States, including Bangladesh, Fungitac 2% cream is also labeled for:
- Tinea corporis (ringworm) and tinea cruris (jock itch) caused by susceptible dermatophytes.
- Cutaneous candidiasis caused by Candida albicans and related species.
- Pityriasis (tinea) versicolor caused by Malassezia furfur.
- Seborrheic dermatitis with fungal (Malassezia) involvement, as an adjunct to standard therapy.
These broader dermatophyte and candidal indications are not part of the US FDA label but are supported by clinical trial data and established international prescribing information. Fungitac is not indicated for oral or systemic fungal infections.
Composition
Each gram of Sertaconazole Nitrate topical cream typically contains Sertaconazole Nitrate 20 mg (2% w/w) as the active ingredient, in a base of pharmaceutically acceptable excipients. Topical lotion/solution formulations of the same strength are available in some markets.
Description
Fungitac is a synthetic imidazole-class antifungal agent with a distinctive benzothiophene ring structure, formulated for topical application. It is applied as a 2% cream (or lotion, where available) for the treatment of dermatophyte and yeast infections of the skin, and is generally used once or twice daily depending on the indication and local labeling.
Therapeutic Class
Topical Antifungal — Imidazole (benzothiophene-imidazole) derivative. Fungitac is a representative agent of this class.
Pharmacology
Sertaconazole Nitrate is an azole antifungal that inhibits fungal cytochrome P450-dependent 14-alpha-demethylase, blocking the conversion of lanosterol to ergosterol, an essential component of the fungal cell membrane. This produces a fungistatic effect at lower concentrations.
The unique benzothiophene ring of Sertaconazole Nitrate, structurally related to tryptophan, also allows it to insert directly into the fungal cell membrane and increase membrane permeability, producing a fungicidal effect at higher concentrations. This dual mechanism gives Sertaconazole Nitrate activity against dermatophytes, Candida species, and Malassezia furfur. Following topical application, systemic absorption of Sertaconazole Nitrate is minimal.
Dosage & Administration of Fungitac
Dosing of Fungitac depends on the indication being treated. For external/topical use only.
| Indication | Frequency | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Interdigital tinea pedis (FDA-approved) | Twice daily | 4 weeks |
| Tinea corporis / tinea cruris | Once or twice daily | 2 to 4 weeks |
| Cutaneous candidiasis | Twice daily | 2 to 4 weeks |
| Pityriasis versicolor | Once or twice daily | 2 to 3 weeks |
Apply a thin layer of Fungitac to cover the affected area and the immediate surrounding skin. Take Fungitac exactly as prescribed by a physician; do not stop, extend, skip applications, or share this medicine with others without medical advice, even if symptoms improve before the course is finished.
Administration of Fungitac
Wash and dry the affected area before applying Fungitac. Apply a thin layer to cover the affected skin and the immediately surrounding area, then gently rub in. Wash hands after application unless the hands are the area being treated. Fungitac is for external use only and must not be swallowed, applied intravaginally, or used in or near the eyes.
Interaction of Fungitac
Because Fungitac is applied topically and has minimal systemic absorption, no clinically significant systemic drug interactions have been well established.
Avoid concurrent application of other topical medications, cosmetics, or irritant skin products on the same area unless advised by a physician, as this may affect the absorption or local tolerability of Fungitac.
Contraindications
Sertaconazole Nitrate is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to sertaconazole nitrate, other imidazole antifungals, or any component of the formulation.
Side Effects of Fungitac
Adverse reactions to Fungitac are generally mild and localized to the application site.
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Dryness of the skin
- Contact dermatitis or localized irritation
- Itching (pruritus)
- Rarely, allergic sensitization
Discontinue use of Fungitac and consult a physician if irritation or signs of sensitization develop (see Precautions and Warnings).
Pregnancy & Lactation
Fungitac should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women are not available; a physician should be consulted before use.
It is not known whether Fungitac is excreted in human breast milk. Caution is advised, and a physician should be consulted before use while breastfeeding, particularly if applied near the breast/nipple area.
Precautions & Warnings
Fungitac is for external/topical use only and must not be taken orally or used systemically.
- Avoid contact with the eyes, nose, mouth, and other mucous membranes; if accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
- Do not apply to open wounds or broken skin unless directed by a physician.
- Discontinue use and consult a physician if signs of irritation, worsening redness, or sensitization occur.
- Take Fungitac exactly as prescribed by a physician; do not stop, extend, skip applications, or share this medicine with others without medical advice. Complete the full prescribed course even if symptoms improve early, as stopping too soon can allow the fungal infection to recur or contribute to resistance.
- Fungitac is not intended for oral, ophthalmic, or intravaginal use.
Overdose Effects of Fungitac
Fungitac is intended for topical use only, and systemic toxicity from topical overdose is unlikely. If accidental ingestion occurs, or if excessive application leads to a significant local reaction, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center. Do not attempt unsupervised home treatment for suspected ingestion.
Storage Conditions
Store at room temperature (below 30°C), away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Use In Special Populations
Renal/Hepatic Impairment: No dose adjustment is established or generally required, as systemic absorption of Fungitac after topical use is minimal.
Elderly: No specific dose adjustment is established; clinical studies did not identify differences in response relative to younger adults.
Pediatric: Safety and efficacy in patients younger than 12 years of age have not been established (see Pediatric Uses).
Duration Of Treatment
Treatment duration with Fungitac is typically 4 weeks for the FDA-approved indication of interdigital tinea pedis, and 2 to 4 weeks for other tinea infections or cutaneous candidiasis under international labeling. The full course should be completed as directed even if symptoms resolve earlier, to reduce the risk of relapse.
Drug Classes
Imidazole antifungal (benzothiophene derivative), topical.
Mode Of Action
Sertaconazole Nitrate acts through a dual mechanism: it inhibits fungal cytochrome P450-dependent 14-alpha-demethylase, blocking ergosterol synthesis (fungistatic effect), and its benzothiophene ring inserts into the fungal cell membrane to increase permeability (fungicidal effect at higher concentrations). This combined action gives Sertaconazole Nitrate broad activity against dermatophytes, Candida species, and Malassezia furfur.
Pregnancy
Category C (FDA legacy pregnancy classification)
Pediatric Uses
The safety and efficacy of Fungitac 2% cream for interdigital tinea pedis have been established in patients 12 years of age and older. Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients younger than 12 years of age have not been established, and use in this age group should only be considered under medical supervision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Fungitac 20 gm Cream used for?
A: Fungitac 20 gm Cream is a topical antifungal cream used to treat fungal skin infections such as athlete's foot (interdigital tinea pedis), and in many countries also ringworm, jock itch, skin candidiasis, and pityriasis versicolor.
Q: How should I apply Fungitac 20 gm Cream?
A: Wash and dry the affected area, then apply a thin layer of Fungitac 20 gm Cream to cover the area and surrounding skin, once or twice daily as directed by your physician. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
Q: How long do I need to use Fungitac 20 gm Cream?
A: Treatment typically lasts 2 to 4 weeks depending on the infection being treated. It is important to complete the full prescribed course of Fungitac 20 gm Cream even if your symptoms improve earlier, as stopping too soon can allow the infection to return.
Q: Can Fungitac 20 gm Cream be used during pregnancy?
A: Fungitac 20 gm Cream should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed, after consulting a physician, since adequate human safety data are not available.
Q: What are the common side effects of Fungitac 20 gm Cream?
A: The most common side effects of Fungitac 20 gm Cream are mild, localized reactions at the application site, including burning, stinging, dryness, and itching.
Q: Is Fungitac 20 gm Cream safe for children?
A: The safety and efficacy of Fungitac 20 gm Cream have been established for patients 12 years of age and older for the approved indication. Use in children younger than 12 has not been established and should only occur under medical supervision.
Disclaimer
The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.