Other Brands/Names

Brentan, Daktarin, Daktazol. Fungares, Funtas, Hexaderm, Kalpanax-K, Locoriz, Miconazole, Zolagel, Zolacort, Yuphamicorine, Vaslone, Thecort, Proson M, Mycorine, Moladerm, Micrem, Micort

How It Works

Miconazole is an antifungal medication used to treat various fungal skin infections, including ringworm, athlete's foot, and tinea versicolor. It works by disrupting the growth and development of fungal cells on the skin. Miconazole inhibits the production of ergosterol, a key component of the fungal cell membrane, leading to cell damage and eventually, the death of the fungus.

Indications

Miconazole is used to treat fungal skin infections like tinea versicolor and athlete's foot. It is also effective for treating systemic fungal infections, which can spread throughout the body.

Contraindications

Miconazole should not be used by individuals with a history of hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug (e.g., hives or swollen eyelids). It is also not recommended for infants under 4 months of age.

Side Effects

Though side effects are rare, some may occur, including:

• Local burning sensation

• Hives

• Blisters on the skin

• Itching

• White patches (hypopigmentation) on the skin

• Peeling, redness, or swelling of the skin

• Pain or other signs of irritation

Types

Miconazole is available in the following forms:

• Cream

• Oral gel (20 mg/g or 24 mg/mL) – prescription required

Dosage

Fungal skin infections

• Adult dosage: Apply to the affected area twice daily for 2–6 weeks. Continue treatment for at least one week after symptoms resolve.
• Children dosage: Same as adult dosage.

Candida fungal infections in the oral cavity and pharynx (oral gel)

Adult dosage

• 2.5 mL administered directly to the infected area four times daily, retaining the gel in the mouth as long as possible before swallowing. Continue for at least one week after symptoms resolve.

Children dosage

• 4 months to 2 years old: 1.25 mL applied four times daily, with the same retention instructions.

• >2 years old: Same dosage as adults.

Candida fungal infections in the intestines (oral gels)

Adult dosage: 20 mg/kg body weight per day, divided into four doses (maximum 1 gram or 40 mL daily). Continue treatment for at least one week after symptoms resolve.

Safety

Pregnancy:

Miconazole is classified as FDA Category C (animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but no adequate human studies are available). Therefore, potential benefits and risks should be evaluated, and caution is advised for pregnant women.

Drug Interactions

Blood-thinning medications (e.g., warfarin)

Concurrent use of warfarin and miconazole may enhance the effects of warfarin, increasing the risk of bleeding. Consult a doctor before using miconazole if you are on warfarin.

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