Pevaryl

Also called econazole

Key points about Pevaryl

  • Pevaryl is an antifungal used to treat skin infections caused by fungi.
  • Pevaryl is also called econazole.
  • In Aotearoa New Zealand Pevaryl comes as a cream and a foaming solution.
  • Find out how to use it safely and possible side effects.
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Pevaryl is an antifungal used to treat skin infections caused by fungi. It works by killing the fungi causing the infection.

In Aotearoa New Zealand Pevaryl comes as a cream and a foaming solution.

  • Pevaryl cream is usually used for fungal infections affecting a small area, eg, ringworm, athlete’s foot or the groin (Jock itch).
  • Pevaryl foaming solution is usually used for fungal infections affecting the whole body, eg, Pityriasis versicolor.

They are available on prescription, and you can also buy them without a prescription at a pharmacy.

  • Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using Pevaryl if you have inflamed, red, dry and scaly skin (eczema)
  • Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before using this medicine if you:
    • are pregnant or breast-feeding
    • think you may be pregnant
    • are planning to have a baby.

  • Wash and dry the infected area of skin before you apply Pevaryl.
  • Apply the cream to the affected area 2 to 3 times daily, by gently rubbing the cream into the skin with your finger. Don't apply near your eyes, in your nose, mouth or vagina.
  • Use the cream regularly for a few weeks. To prevent the infection from coming back, continue to use the cream for about 1 to 2 weeks after the infection has cleared. Contact your doctor if your condition looks like it's getting worse.
  • Wash your hands carefully after using Pevaryl cream, as this will help to prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of your body. Also, use a separate towel to other people until your infection clears up.

Pevaryl foaming solution is a 3-day course applied to the wet skin and scalp. To work well, it's important that the foam is not rinsed off, but allowed to dry. 

  • In the evening, shower and wash your hair in the normal way.
  • When finished, turn off the shower and apply Pevaryl foaming solution to the skin and scalp.
  • Rub in well for 3 to 5 minutes.
  • Dry your hair, but don't rinse the solution off your body.
  • Next morning, take a shower.
  • Repeat this over the next 2 evenings.
  • To prevent the infection from coming back, repeat the 3-day course twice – 1 month and 3 months after the first treatment.
  • If the treatment doesn’t work, talk to your healthcare provider.

Like all medicines, Pevaryl cream and foaming solution can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. They can cause itching and redness. These side effects are usually mild and will pass. If side effects continue for a few days, tell your doctor or pharmacist.

If you notice sudden swelling of your mouth and lips, or a rash appearing, tell your doctor immediately.

Read more about medicines and side effects and reporting a reaction you think might be a side effect.

References

  1. Econazole nitrate(external link) New Zealand Formulary, NZ
  2. Pevaryl cream(external link) Medsafe Data Sheet, NZ
  3. Pevaryl foaming solution(external link) Medsafe Data Sheet, NZ

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Credits: Sandra Ponen, Pharmacist, Healthify He Puna Waiora. Healthify is brought to you by Health Navigator Charitable Trust.

Reviewed by: Angela Lambie, Pharmacist, Auckland

Last reviewed: