Ertaczo

Generic name: Sertaconazole nitrate

What is Ertaczo?

Ertaczo 2% cream is used for the treatment of athlete's foot (an infection that occurs between the toes) in patients 12 years of age and older who are capable of producing an immune response. Athlete's foot is the common name for a skin condition caused by infection with any of three types of fungus: Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, or Epidermophyton floccosum.

What is the most important information I should know about Ertaczo?

Do not stop treatment, even if it looks like the infection has cleared. It is important that you continue to use Ertaczo for the prescribed period of time to make sure the infection does not return. If you develop signs of an allergic reaction (such as irritation, redness, itching, burning, blistering, or swelling), notify your doctor immediately and discontinue the medication.

If your condition does not improve in 2 weeks or if it becomes worse, contact your doctor for instructions.

Overuse of topical products may worsen your condition.

Do not use Ertaczo for any condition other than the one for which it was prescribed.

Ertaczo is not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years of age. Safety and effectiveness in this age group have not been confirmed.

Avoid contact with the eyes, nose, mouth and other mucous membranes. Ertaczo is for external use only.

Refer to "How should I take this medication?" for the proper procedure on how to use Ertaczo.

Who should not take Ertaczo?

You should not take Ertaczo if you are allergic to it, to any of its components, or to related antifungal medications known as imidazoles.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Ertaczo?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with this drug. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a weakened immune system.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Ertaczo should be applied twice a day for 4 weeks, or for as long as your doctor prescribes. You are likely to notice a decrease in itching after 1 week.

How should I take Ertaczo?

Ertaczo is applied to the affected areas between the toes twice daily, as well as the healthy skin immediately next to the infected area.

Use Ertaczo Cream as directed by the physician. Your hands should be washed after applying the medication to the affected area(s). Avoid contact with the eyes, nose, mouth and other mucous membranes. Ertaczo is for external use only.

Dry the affected area(s) thoroughly before application, if you wish to use Ertaczo after bathing. Gently rub the medicine until it is evenly distributed.

Use the medication for the full treatment time recommended by the physician, even if symptoms have improved. Notify your doctor if there is no improvement after the end of the prescribed treatment period, or sooner if the condition worsens.

Inform your doctor if the area of application shows signs of increased irritation, redness, itching, burning, blistering, swelling or oozing.

Do not bandage or wrap the affected area unless otherwise directed by your physician.

Do not use this medication for any disorder other than that for which it was prescribed.

What should I avoid while taking Ertaczo?

Ertaczo may only be applied to the skin. Do not use it in the eyes, mouth, or vagina.

Use this product as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop treatment even if you feel better; finish the full regimen prescribed by your doctor.

Do not cover the affected area with bandages unless directed to do so by your doctor.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Ertaczo?

Interactions between Ertaczo and other medications have not been studied. Always check with your doctor before combining Ertaczo with any other drug.

What are the possible side effects of Ertaczo?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Ertaczo.

Side effects may include: mild local skin reactions (such as dry skin and skin tenderness)

If you develop signs of an allergic reaction (such as irritation, redness, itching, burning, blistering, or swelling) notify your doctor immediately and discontinue the medication.

Can I receive Ertaczo if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Ertaczo during pregnancy and breastfeeding have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor immediately.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Ertaczo?

If you miss a dose of Ertaczo, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.

How should I store Ertaczo?

Store Ertaczo at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Keep Ertaczo out of the reach of children.