Econazole-antifungal drug and its pharmacology

DESCRIPTION:

  Econazole (commonly used as the nitrate salt) is an antifungal medication of the imidazole class.[1] It is used as a cream under the brand names Spectazole (United States), Ecostatin (Canada), Pevaryl (Western Europe), and Pevisone (the latter consisting of the combination econazole/triamcinolone) to treat skin infections such as athlete's foot, tinea, pityriasis versicolor, ringworm, and jock itch.

 A broad spectrum antimycotic with some action against Gram positive bacteria. It is used topically in dermatomycoses also orally and parenterally.

PHARMACOKINETICS:
Econazole modifies the permeability of cell wall membrane in fungi; may interfere with RNA and protein synthesis, and lipid metabolism. Absorption Insignificant (topical or vaginal).

Metabolism is reported hepatic. Renal Excretion accounts for 40% .

About 7.6–9.6% of a topical dose found in stratum corneum;13 also found in epidermis and middle region of dermis.

PHARMACODYNAMICS:

Econazole is an antifungal medication related to fluconazole (Diflucan), ketoconazole (Nizoral), itraconazole (Sporanox), and clotrimazole (Lotrimin, Mycelex). Econazole prevents fungal organisms from producing vital substances required for growth and function. This medication is effective only for infections caused by fungal organisms. It will not work for bacterial or viral infections.

SIDE EFFECTS:

                  1.Pruritus.

                  2.Erythema. 

                  3.Itching.

                  4.Burning. 

                  5.Contact dermatitis.

                  6.Local irritation.

                  7.Local sensitization.

                  8.Stinging.

                  9.Porphyria.

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

                  1. Pregnancy.

                  2. Hypersensitivity.

                  3. Porphyria.

DRUG DRUG INTERACTIONS:

                  1. Econazole + Warfarin = The serum concentration of Warfarin can be increased .

                  2. Econazole + Dicomarol = The serum concentration of Dicoumarol can be increased.

THERAPEUTIC USES:

  1.  Used to treat skin infections such as athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm, and other fungal skin infections (candidiasis).

  2.  Used to treat a skin condition known as pityriasis (tinea versicolor).