Tolnaftate (INN), sold under the brand names TAGRID, and Tinactin, among others, is a synthetic thiocarbamate used as an anti-fungal agent that may be sold without medical prescription in most jurisdictions. It is supplied as a cream, powder, spray, liquid, and liquid aerosol. Tolnaftate is used to treat fungal conditions such as jock itch, athlete's foot and ringworm. Tolnaftate was discovered by Teruhisa Noguchi in 1962 while he was working for the Nippon Soda Company.
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Mechanism
Although the exact mechanism of action is not entirely known, it is believed to inhibit squalene epoxidase, an important enzyme in the biosynthetic pathway of ergosterol (a key component of the fungal cell membrane) in a similar way to terbinafine.
Uses
Tolnaftate has been found to be generally slightly less effective than azoles when used to treat tinea pedis (athlete's foot). It is, however, useful when dealing with ringworm, especially when passed from pets to humans.
Side effects
Side effects that may occur include:
allergic reactions like:
skin rash
itching or hives
swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
inflammation, redness, or pain at the affected area
Less severe side effects include:
dry skin
mild skin irritation, burning, or itching at the affected area