Itragel

Itragel is used to treat fungal infections caused by Trichophyton spp., Microsporum spp., and Epidermophyton floccosum. The infections caused could be ringworm infection, infection of feet, or infection in groin and buttocks. This medicine also treats persistent infection of fingernails and toenails, persistent candida (yeast) infections of vagina or candida (yeast) infections of the mouth or throat in patients with lower resistance to disease. It is also used in the treatment of cryptococcal infection and infections caused by histoplasma, aspergillus and blastomyces.

Itragel is effective against Trichophyton species which cause ringworm infection, athlete’s foot, and jock itch (fungal infection of the skin in the groin or buttocks). It is also effective against yeast known as Candida which commonly causes vaginal thrush (infection caused by an overgrowth of yeast called Candida albicans).

Before using Itragel, clean and dry the affected area. Gently and thoroughly massage it into the skin. Be careful not to get the medication in your eyes or mouth. If Itragel gets in your eyes accidentally, wash with plenty of water and call your doctor if your eyes are irritated.

The dose and length of treatment will depend on the type and site of infection and your response to the treatment. For example, if you are taking Itragel for athlete’s foot (fungal infection of the skin on the feet and between the toes), the dose may need to be taken for 30 days. While, on the other hand, if you are taking it for candidal infection of vagina, the dose may take about 1 to 3 3 days depending on the dosage advised by the doctor.

No, you should not stop taking Itragel without completing the entire course. This is because if you stop the medication then your fungal infection may not get completely cured. It usually takes about 6-9 months for the nail lesions to get cured and after that the new nail also takes several months to grow. Therefore, do not worry if you do not see any improvement during the treatment.

Be careful not to get Itragel into your eyes or mouth. If you happen to get it in your eyes, rinse off with plenty of water immediately and contact your doctor. You must not use Itragel if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients. Let your doctor know if you notice any allergic reaction while using it for the first time. Inform your doctor if you are taking any medicines regularly to prevent any allergic reaction with other medicines. Do not cover the area being treated with Itragel with a bandage, as this may increase absorption of this medicine and increase the side effects. Do not use more than what is recommended to relieve your symptoms faster. Using more than what is advised will only increase the side effects. Also, it is advised to inform your doctor if you are planning to conceive. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should use Itragel only if prescribed by the doctor.

The duration of treatment with Itragel depends on the type of infection. In general, the treatment for tinea infection is advised for 1 month and candida infection for at least 15 days. Do not stop the treatment on your own even if you feel better because the infection may come back as it takes some time to kill the fungus.

Itragel is safe for children only if taken as directed by the doctor. It should be given to children in the correct dose only for the prescribed length of time. Minor side effects may occur but usually, they are not bothersome. However, if you develop a burning sensation, redness, and itching (which is severe in nature), stop the medicine and contact your doctor.

Keep the affected skin areas clean and dry but avoid excessive rubbing. You may have the urge to scratch because of itchiness but avoid scratching as it will damage the surface of the skin and cause the infection to spread further. Do not share towels, bath mats, etc. with other people as you could spread the infection to them.

Itragel may reduce the effectiveness of rubber contraceptives, like diaphragms and condoms. If you are using the cream on the vulva or penis, it is advised to use alternative methods of contraception for at least 5 days after using Itragel.

The symptoms of skin infection, such as itching or soreness, should improve within a few days of treatment. However, other signs such as redness and scaling may take longer to disappear. Do not stop applying this medicine before the duration advised by your doctor, even if you feel better.

If you forget to use Itragel, do not worry and continue using Itragel as soon as you remember. However, if you are not sure and have any other doubts, please consult your doctor.