Mentax
butenafine
(byoo-ten-a-feen) ,Lotrimin Ultra
(trade name),Mentax
(trade name)Classification
Therapeutic: antifungalsIndications
Treatment of a variety of cutaneous fungal infections, including tinea pedis (athlete’s foot), tinea cruris (jock itch), tinea corporis (ringworm), and tinea versicolor.
Action
Affects the synthesis of the fungal cell wall.
Therapeutic effects
Decrease in symptoms of fungal infection.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Absorption through intact skin is minimal.
Distribution: Distribution after topical administration is primarily local.
Metabolism and Excretion: Hepatic via hydroxylation.
Half-life: 35 hr.
Time/action profile
| ROUTE | ONSET | PEAK | DURATION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top | unknown | up to 4 wk | unknown |
Contraindications/Precautions
Contraindicated in: Hypersensitivity to active ingredients, additives, preservatives, or bases; Some products contain alcohol or bisulfites and should be avoided in patients with known intolerance.
Use Cautiously in: Nail and scalp infections (may require additional systemic therapy); Obstetric / Lactation: Safety not established.
Adverse Reactions/Side Effects
Local
- burning
- itching
- local hypersensitivity reactions
- redness
- stinging
Interactions
Drug-Drug interaction
None significant.Route/Dosage
Topical (Adults and Children > 12 yr) Apply once daily for 2 wk for patients with tinea corporis, tinea cruris, or tinea versicolor. Apply once daily for 4 wk or twice daily for 7 days for patients with tinea pedis.
Availability
Cream: 1%Rx, OTC
Nursing implications
Nursing assessment
- Inspect involved areas of skin and mucous membranes before and frequently during therapy. Increased skin irritation may indicate need to discontinue medication.
Potential Nursing Diagnoses
Risk for impaired skin integrity (Indications)Risk for infection (Indications)
Implementation
- Consult physician or other health care professional for proper cleansing technique before applying medication.
- Topical: Apply small amount to cover affected area completely. Avoid the use of occlusive wrappings or dressings unless directed by physician or other health care professional.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Instruct patient to apply medication as directed for full course of therapy, even if feeling better. Emphasize the importance of avoiding the eyes or vaginal area.
- Caution patient that some products may stain fabric, skin, or hair. Check label information. Fabrics stained from cream can usually be cleaned by handwashing with soap and warm water.
- Patients with athlete’s foot should be taught to wear well-fitting, ventilated shoes, to wash affected areas thoroughly, and to change shoes and socks at least once a day.
- Advise patient to report increased skin irritation or lack of response to therapy to health care professional.
- Early relief of symptoms may be seen in 2–3 days. For tinea cruris, tinea corporis, and tinea versicolor, 2 wk are needed, and for tinea pedis, therapeutic response may take 4 wk. Recurrent fungal infections may be a sign of systemic illness.
Evaluation/Desired Outcomes
- Decrease in skin irritation and.
- Resolution of infection.