naftifine sufficient for fungal skin infections
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Naftifine sntJjcient for ftmgaI skin infectiom
Although not yet available in the UK, researchers from that region have demonstrated that the topical antifungal naftifine [Exoderil~ has inherent anti-inflammatory properties and is as effective as a corticosteroid/antifungal combination in the treatment of fungal skin infections. Such infections are often associated with marked inflammation.
These findings, from the researchers' controlled multicentre study, indicate that for fungal infections of the skin, naftifine alone is a useful alternative to topical steroid-containing preparations. The latter are thought by some to interfere with cutaneous defence mechanisms and may be associated with systemic toxicity if absorbed cutaneously.
In the study, 269 general practice patients with fungal skin infections (tinea pedis, corporis or cruris) applied either naftifine or clotrimazole 1 %lhydrocortisone 1 % [Canesten HC-] twice-daily for 4 weeks; they were then followed-up after 2 and 8 weeks. After randomisation to treatment, only 115 patients were shown to have laboratory evidence of fungal (mainly dermatophyte) infection. Mycological cure rates at each time point measured were similar for the 2 treatment groups and relapse was uncommon. For all patients, including those with inflammation not attributable to fungal infection, both treatments were also very effective in reducing signs and symptoms of inflammation. Evans EGV, James IGV, Seaman RAJ, Richardson MD. Does naftifine have anti-inflaIlUlUltol)' properties? A double-blind comparative study with 1% c101rimazoleil % bydrocortisone in clinically diagnosed fungal infection of the skin. British Journal of Dermatology 129: 437-442, Oct 1993 8OIl228067
20 Nov 1993 INPHARMAe
THERAPY
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