What is Oxistat?
Oxistat (oxiconazole nitrate) is an antifungal medicine that fights infections caused by fungi. Oxistat topical (for the skin) is used to treat athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm. Oxistat may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Health Benefits
Oxistat is used to treat athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm.
Athlete’s foot is a condition caused by a fungus that usually begins between the toes. Jock itch is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the groin area. Ringworm is a fungal infection that can occur anywhere on the body.
Side Effects & Safety
Oxistat topical cream is generally considered safe for most people. Side effects are typically mild and may include:
Itching
Burning
Dryness
Redness
Skin irritation
Seek medical help if you have severe burning, itching, or irritation of the treated skin.
Dosage
Oxistat topical cream is available in three strengths: 1%, 2%, and 3%. The usual adult dose is to apply the cream to the affected area two or three times daily for two weeks.
For athletes foot, the cream should be applied between the toes and on the soles of the feet. For jock itch, the cream should be applied to the groin area. For ringworm, the cream should be applied to all areas of skin with rash.
To prevent reinfection, it is important to keep the feet clean and dry, and to wear sandals or other open-toe shoes when possible. Clothes (including socks and underwear) should be washed in hot water and dried in a hot dryer.
Interactions
There are no known drug interactions with Oxistat topical cream. However, as with all medications, it is always best to check with your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.
Mechanism of Action
Oxistat topical cream works by killing the fungi that cause athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm. It does this by preventing the fungi from growing and multiplying.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Oxistat topical cream is not systemically absorbed.
Metabolism and Excretion: Oxistat topical cream is metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine.
Half-Life: The half-life of Oxistat topical cream is not known.
Alternatives to Oxistat
Other topical antifungal creams include clotrimazole (Lotrimin), miconazole (Micatin), and terbinafine (Lamisil). These medications are all available over-the-counter.
Is clotrimazole more effective than Oxistat?
There is no definitive answer to this question as both medications are effective against athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm. Some people may find one medication to be more effective than the other, while others may have no preference.
If you have any questions about which medication is right for you, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Oxistat topical cream is not expected to be harmful to a developing fetus. However, as with all medications, it is always best to check with your healthcare provider before using any medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
