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Overview: Topical tolnaftate is an over-the-counter antifungal medicine used for athlete's foot, ringworm, and jock itch. It works by stopping the growth of the fungus that causes these skin infections. Most people use it without problems, but mild skin irritation can happen where it is applied. Contact your health care provider if your symptoms do not improve, get worse, or return after treatment.

Uses

What is topical tolnaftate used for?

Topical tolnaftate is commonly used to treat and prevent athlete’s foot and treat ringworm, which are fungal infections that can cause itching, burning, and cracking. It is also used to treat jock itch.

Topical tolnaftate may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

How does topical tolnaftate work (mechanism of action)?

Topical tolnaftate kills certain types of fungi by stopping them from growing

How is topical tolnaftate supplied (dosage forms)?

Brands and other names

  • Dr. Scholl's Odor-X Antifungal
  • Dr. Scholl's Odor-X Athlete's Foot Spray
  • Fungi-Nail Anti-Fungal
  • Fungicure Anti-Fungal Liquid
  • Lotrimin AF Daily Prevention Deodorant
  • Tinactin

Dosage forms and strengths

  • 1% deodorant powder spray
  • 1% liquid spray
  • 1% medicated foot powder
  • 1% gel
  • 1% antifungal nail swabs
  • 1% antifungal cream

This is not a complete list of topical tolnaftate products.

How should I store topical tolnaftate?

Topical Cream, Gel, and Powder. Store at room temperature, between 68 F and 77 F (20 C and 25 C). Store in a cool, dry place.

Topical Liquid. Store at room temperature, between 59 F and 86 F (15 C and 30 C). 

Topical Spray. Store at room temperature, between 68 F and 77 F (20 C and 25 C). Tolnaftate spray in a can is flammable. Never place the can into a flame or store it at a temperature above 120 F (49 C). This can cause the can to explode. 

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of topical tolnaftate?

The most common side effects of topical tolnaftate are skin redness, discoloration, or irritation. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

There may be other side effects of topical tolnaftate that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of topical tolnaftate?

While less common, the most serious side effects of topical tolnaftate are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Topical tolnaftate can cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using topical tolnaftate and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching or skin rash
  • Bumps on the skin called hives that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use topical tolnaftate?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use topical tolnaftate.

  • Lotrimin AF
  • Tinactin
  • Tolnaftate
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific topical tolnaftate products they stock.

What should I know about topical tolnaftate before using it?

Keep topical tolnaftate out of the reach of children.

Avoid touching your eyes while applying topical tolnaftate to your skin.

There are multiple forms of topical tolnaftate products available. Read and follow the instructions for the product you have and make sure you understand how to use it properly. If you have any questions, talk to a health care provider. Before applying topical tolnaftate, the skin should be gently cleansed with a mild skin cleanser and patted dry.

Topical tolnaftate is only for use on the skin, including the skin around your toenails and in-between your toes. The medicine does not work on the nails themselves or on the scalp. 

Topical tolnaftate sprays should be shaken well before use. The spray is flammable. Do not use it near a heat source, a flame, or while smoking because the can could explode. Do not pierce or puncture the can. 

If your skin has not improved within 4 weeks, or within the time on the product instructions, stop using topical tolnaftate and call your health care provider.

What should I tell my health care provider before using topical tolnaftate?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if topical tolnaftate is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Pregnancy. Tell your health care provider if you are or plan to become pregnant. Your health care provider can let you know if you should use topical tolnaftate while you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.

Breastfeeding. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your health care provider can let you know if you should use topical tolnaftate while breastfeeding.

Interactions

Does topical tolnaftate interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between topical tolnaftate and foods or drinks.

There are no known interactions between topical tolnaftate and alcohol.

Does topical tolnaftate interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

There are no known interactions between topical tolnaftate and other medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much topical tolnaftate?

If you or someone else has used too much topical tolnaftate or accidently swallowed it, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of topical tolnaftate?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only use the next dose. Do not use double or extra doses.