benzalkonium chloride + tolnaftate at a glance
Medicine type
Topical antifungal and antimicrobial cream
Licensed uses
Treatment and prevention of athlete’s foot; treatment of tinea cruris
Important excipient
Contains cetostearyl alcohol, which can cause local contact dermatitis
What is benzalkonium chloride + tolnaftate used for?
This cream is licensed for fungal infections of the feet and groin.
Treatment and prevention of athlete’s foot (tinea pedis)
Treatment of tinea cruris, also called jock itch or dhobie itch
How does benzalkonium chloride + tolnaftate work?
Tolnaftate disrupts production of ergosterol, which fungal cell membranes need. Benzalkonium chloride can destabilise microbial membranes. Together they provide antifungal and supplementary antimicrobial activity on treated skin.
How to take benzalkonium chloride + tolnaftate
For use on the skin only.
Wash and thoroughly dry the affected area, especially between the toes
Gently rub the cream into the affected skin
Wash your hands after applying it
Keep feet clean and dry, use a separate towel and do not share socks, shoes or towels
If symptoms persist, ask a doctor or pharmacist to review the diagnosis and treatment
benzalkonium chloride + tolnaftate side effects
Common or expected effects
- Occasional irritation where the cream is applied
- Contact dermatitis, which may cause redness, itching or swelling
- Hypersensitivity or an allergic skin reaction
Get urgent medical advice
- Sudden swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue or throat, or difficulty breathing
- Rapidly worsening, painful or blistering skin, particularly with discharge, fever or shivering
benzalkonium chloride + tolnaftate in pregnancy
The selected product information says it can be used during pregnancy. Ask a pharmacist or prescriber if the diagnosis is uncertain, symptoms are extensive or persistent, or you are considering another antifungal product.
benzalkonium chloride + tolnaftate while breastfeeding
The selected product information says it can be used while breastfeeding. Ask a pharmacist if symptoms are extensive or persistent, or the diagnosis is uncertain.
benzalkonium chloride + tolnaftate interactions
No clinically significant interactions with other medicines are known for this cream.
Common questions about benzalkonium chloride + tolnaftate
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Is it licensed for jock itch?
Yes. The cream is licensed for tinea cruris, also called jock itch or dhobie itch.
Can children use it?
The selected product information includes children among its users. Check the pack and ask a pharmacist if the child is young or the diagnosis is uncertain.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.