Osmosis video - Antifungals - Topical: Nursing pharmacology

Topical antifungals are medications that are applied directly to the skin or nails to treat fungal infections. They work by killing or stopping the growth of fungi that cause infections.

Topical antifungal medications are available in various forms, including creams, lotions, gels, sprays, and powders. Commonly used topical antifungals include nystatin, tavaborole, ciclopirox, and azoles like ketoconazole, miconazole, econazole, and efinaconazole.

Topical antifungal medications are used to treat different skin infections including tinea corporis, tinea pedis, and pityriasis versicolor.Topical antifungals are generally safe and well-tolerated, and side effects are uncommon. However, some people may experience mild to moderate side effects, including skin irritation, allergic reactions, and discoloration of skin, hair or nails.