Mentax (butenafine)
Mentax 1% is indicated to treat several fungal skin diseases like athlete’s foot, ringworm, interdigital tinea pedis, tinea corporis and jock itch. The generic name of Mentax topical is Butenafine HCl.
Drug Composition
Mentax cream contains butenafine hydrochloride which is a synthetic antifungal substance. Butenafine belongs to a class of antifungal agents called benzylamines which have a similar structure to that of allylamines. The empirical formula of the compound is C23H27N•HCl with a molecular weight of 353.93 g/mol. It is an odorless, white, crystalline powder. It is slightly soluble in water and freely soluble in ethanol, methanol and chloroform.
Uses
This drug is also used for the topical treatment of a skin disorder known as (tinea versicolor) pityriasis which is a fungal infection causing the darkening or lightening of the skin of chest, legs or neck. Butenafine hydrochloride is an antifungal agent which works by stopping the growth of fungus.
Dosage
The recommended dosage for Mentax (butenafine) is as follows:
For topical use:
- Clean and dry the affected area before applying the medication.
- Apply a thin layer of Mentax cream to the affected skin and surrounding area.
- Gently rub the cream into the skin until it is evenly distributed.
- Use Mentax cream once daily, preferably at the same time each day.
- Continue using Mentax as prescribed by your healthcare professional, even if the symptoms improve before the full treatment duration.
It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the appropriate dosage or usage, consult with your doctor or pharmacist for further guidance.
How to Use
This medicine has to be directly applied on the skin only. Clean and pat dry the region to be treated. A thin layer of the cream has to be applied on the affected region and rub in gently generally 1-2 times a day. Consult your pharmacist/doctor if you are not sure about any of the information mentioned on the product package. Hands should be washed properly after using the cream. The medicine should not be applied in the eyes, mouth or nose, or on the scalp or inside the vagina. Flush with sufficient water if the cream gets inside these areas.
Side-Effects
Redness, irritation, itching or burning at the applied region is a common reaction to this medicine. A very adverse side-effect to this medicine is rare. The most normally reported serious reactions in patients using this cream are: erythema, contact dermatitis, itching and irritation. Inform your physician or doctor immediately if any of the above effects worsen or persist.
Contraindications
Mentax is meant only for external use. Mentax cream is contraindicated in patients who show hypersensitivity to Butenafine HCl or any of its ingredients. Patients having any allergic reaction to allylamine or benzylamine antifungals should not use this medication. This medicine contains several inactive components which can be responsible for allergies or other problems. For more details contact your pharmacist. Inform your doctor about your past medical condition before using this medicine, mainly of athlete’s foot on the side/bottom of the foot. Drug interaction may alter the working mechanism or elevate the risk of side-effects. Do not start, change or stop the dosage of any drug without the approval of the doctor.
Use of Mentax during pregnancy
This medicine should be used during pregnancy only when it is urgently needed. No visceral, skeletal or external variations or malformations were observed after the treatment. Discuss the benefits and risks of the drug with your physician or doctor. It is not known whether this medicine is excreted into the human milk. Contact your doctor or pharmacist before breastfeeding as several drugs may have a potential risk.
Some frequently asked questions about Butenafine
What is butenafine?
Butenafine is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections of the skin. It belongs to the class of drugs known as allylamines and works by inhibiting the growth of fungi.
What conditions can butenafine treat?
Butenafine is commonly used to treat various fungal skin infections, including athlete's foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), and ringworm (tinea corporis). It is important to use butenafine specifically for the condition it is intended to treat.
How does butenafine work?
Butenafine works by interfering with the synthesis of fungal cell membranes. It disrupts the normal functioning of the fungal cells, leading to their death and clearance.
Is butenafine safe to use?
Butenafine is generally considered safe when used as directed. However, like any medication, it may have some side effects. Common side effects include itching, burning, redness, or irritation at the application site. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, consult a healthcare professional.
Can butenafine be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using butenafine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. They can evaluate the potential risks and benefits and provide guidance based on your specific situation.
How should butenafine be applied?
Butenafine is typically available as a cream or gel for topical application. Clean and dry the affected area before applying a thin layer of butenafine cream or gel. Gently rub it into the skin until it is evenly distributed. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional or the product packaging for the appropriate application method and dosage.
How long does it take for butenafine to work?
The time it takes for butenafine to work can vary depending on the severity of the fungal infection. In many cases, improvement in symptoms can be seen within a few days of starting treatment. However, it is important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve earlier.
Can butenafine interact with other medications?
Butenafine is primarily used topically, which reduces the likelihood of significant drug interactions. However, it is still important to inform your healthcare professional about all the medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking to ensure there are no potential interactions.
Can butenafine be used for children?
The use of butenafine in children should be determined by a healthcare professional. They can assess the child's specific condition and provide appropriate guidance on dosage and usage.
What should I do if my symptoms do not improve or worsen?
If your symptoms do not improve or worsen despite using butenafine as directed, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance. They can assess your condition and recommend alternative treatment options if necessary.
Brand names
Buticrem, Ingebut, Zaxem, Scholl Athlete's Foot, Dermacom, Butop, Fintop, Derfina, Lexoderil, Funcid, Lotrimin Ultra.
- Download in PDF » Mentax: Product Information
