undecylenic acid + zinc undecylenate: clinical use

Prescribing considerations

• Confirm the presentation is consistent with athlete’s foot; persistent or spreading disease may need diagnostic review.
• Avoid broken skin, eyes and mucous membranes.
• Consider earlier assessment for substantial pain, suspected bacterial infection, diabetes or immunosuppression.

Contraindications and cautions

• Hypersensitivity to either active ingredient or any excipient.

Monitoring

• Reconsider the diagnosis if pharmacy treatment is ineffective.
• Monitor for local irritation, contact dermatitis or hypersensitivity; discontinue if irritation is severe.
• Assess urgently if the foot becomes hot, painful and swollen.

Clinical pharmacology

Topical agents with antifungal and antibacterial properties. No usable systemic disposition data are provided for the cream; powder pharmacokinetics are listed as not applicable.

Formulation and product differences

• Cream is massaged onto affected intact skin, including between the toes.
• Powder can be applied to affected areas and inside clean socks or stockings.
• Both contain an eugenol-containing fragrance; cream also contains cetostearyl alcohol and sodium laurilsulfate.