Daktarin Powder (miconazole nitrate) is a potent antifungal treatment used to eradicate topical fungal infections, such as ringworm or jock itch. Unlike creams, gels and other moisture-containing treatments, Daktarin Powder helps keep the application site dry---particularly beneficial in the groin, armpits, skin folds and other areas which tend to be moist.

The medication works by destroying the integrity of fungal cell walls, causing the fungus to die off. Improvements are usually noticed very quickly, within a day or two of starting use, though it usually takes a bit longer for symptoms to completely clear up.

The powder is most commonly used to treat:

• Ringworm
• Candidiasis
• Athlete's foot
• Groin infections
• Fungal rashes

Daktarin Powder is safe for use in all ages, and in most places is available without a prescription.

Getting the Most from Daktarin Powder

Like other topical antifungal treatments, the medication is most effective if kept in direct contact with the infection as much as possible. Daktarin Powder should be applied twice per day, in the morning and evening:

• Clean and dry affected area.
• Apply powder to entire area, extending a short way onto healthy skin surrounding the infection.
• If the medication is washed off through showering, swimming or other means it should be reapplied.
• Continue treatment until all symptoms are gone, and then for an additional 10 days to ensure complete eradication of the infection.

The powder may also be sprinkled in shoes, socks, clothing or other materials that come into contact with the infected area. This will help keep the infection from spreading as well as help keep the area dry.

There can be quite a variance in treatment duration. Some lucky individuals find their infections clear up practically overnight, while others may need to use Daktarin Powder for few weeks. Treatment may safely continue for as long as needed provided some improvement is taking place; if no improvements are noticed after several days of use, or if the condition worsens, a doctor should be consulted.

Treatment may be repeated as-needed if the infection returns. Starting treatment at the earliest symptoms an infection is developing is ideal.

Patients particularly prone to getting fungal infections may want to use Daktarin Powder as a preventive measure, applying small amounts of the powder to shoes, clothing or problem areas on a regular basis.

Precautions & Side Effects

For the most part Daktarin Powder is a remarkably safe treatment, unlikely to cause any problems. Very rarely some individuals experience mild irritation at the application site. Severe irritation---pain, redness, hives and so forth---may indicate an allergic reaction, in which case use should discontinue.

Daktarin Powder has only one known drug interaction, though very rare; the medication may enhance the effects of warfarin, leading to easier bruising and bleeding. Speak with a doctor before starting treatment if taking warfarin.

The medication is not known to cause any complications if used in patients with major medical conditions.

It is also unlikely to cause harm in unborn or nursing babies, but effects have not been thoroughly studied. Pregnant or breast-feeding moms may want to discuss possible risks with a trusted doctor before use.

Other Options

There are a number of Daktarin antifungal products designed to target specific fungal infections. Choosing the best match can make a tremendous difference in effectiveness and speed of healing:

• Daktarin Oral Gel should be used to treat infections in the mouth or throat (oral thrush).
• Daktarin Cream can be used to treat ringworm, athlete's foot, skin infections and groin infections when excess moisture is not a concern. It can also be used to treat nail infections.
• Daktarin Powder is used to treat ringworm, athlete's foot, skin infections and groin infections when drying is desirable.
• Daktarin Tincture is a convenient and effective way to treat fungal nail infections.