My Cart Find A Store

Drug

Miconazole Nitrate

Pronounced

"mye-KON-a-zole"

Uses

This medication is used to treat certain skin infections caused by fungus (athlete's foot, ringworm, jock itch). Miconazole reduces the red skin patches, itching, and peeling that occur with these skin infections. It works by stopping the growth of certain types of fungus. Miconazole belongs to a class of drugs known as azole antifungals.

This medication only treats certain fungal skin infections. It will not work for other skin infections (such as those caused by bacteria or viruses). Unnecessary use or overuse of any drug used to treat infection can lead to its decreased effectiveness.

This medication is not effective for treating fungal infections of the scalp or nails. Do not use this product on children under 2 years old unless directed by the doctor.

If you are self-treating with this medication, it is important to read the package instructions carefully before you start using this product to be sure it is right for you. (See also Precautions section.)

How to Use This Medication

Use this medication only on the skin as directed by your doctor. If you are self-treating, follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Before applying this medication, clean and completely dry the affected areas. If this medication is used on children, parents should apply it for them. Using the brush provided, apply a thin layer of the medication as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily (morning and evening). If you are treating athlete's foot, also apply the medication in between the toes and on the skin around/under the nails. Do not cover with a bandage or wrap the area unless directed to do so by your doctor. Wash your hands after each application.

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, mouth, vagina, or on healthy areas of skin. If this occurs, wipe off the medication and rinse thoroughly with water. Call your doctor if irritation occurs.

Try not to spill this medication. If a spill occurs, wipe it up right away. This medication can damage countertops, floors, and other surfaces.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. Do not apply large amounts of this medication, use it more often, or use it for longer than directed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects may increase.

Athlete's foot and ringworm usually require 4 weeks of treatment with miconazole. Jock itch usually requires 2 weeks of treatment. Continue to use this medication for the full time as directed, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection.

Stop using this medication and get medical help right away if your condition lasts after the above length of treatment, if it gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem.

Copyright © 2025 TraceGains, Inc. All rights reserved.

RxAnswers™ is a copyrighted combined product from TraceGains and First DataBank, Inc.

Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

This information is intended only for residents of the United States. Products sold under the same brand names in other countries may contain different ingredients.

Learn more about First DataBank

There are some limitations on the information provided in “Nutrient Interactions.” Do NOT rely solely on the information in this article. Please read the disclaimer

Learn more about TraceGains, the company.

TraceGains and/or its suppliers make no warranties or representations as to the accuracy or completeness of this content herein or that of any organization referred or linked to within this content and will not be liable for any damages arising out of your access to or use of any information found herein or that of any organization referred to within this content.

Information expires December 2025.