sertaconazole

(ser-ta-kon-a-zole) sertaconazole,

Ertaczo

(trade name)

Classification

Therapeutic: antifungals
Pharmacologic: imidazoles

Indications

Topical treatment of interdigital tinea pedis in immunocompetent patients.

Action

Inhibits synthesis of ergosterol, a component of fungal cell membrane, resulting in cytoplasmic leakage and fungal cell death.

Therapeutic effects

Resolution of fungal infection.Active against Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Epidermophyton floccosum.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption.Distribution: Unknown.Metabolism and Excretion: Unknown.Half-life: Unknown.

Time/action profile

ROUTE	ONSET	PEAK	DURATION
top	within 2 wk	unknown	unknown

Contraindications/Precautions

Contraindicated in: Hypersensitivity to sertaconazole or other imidazoles.Use Cautiously in: Obstetric: Use only if clearly needed; Lactation / Pediatric: Lactation and children <12 yr (safety not established).

Adverse Reactions/Side Effects

Dermatologic

application site reactions
burning
contact dermatitis
dry skin
tenderness

Interactions

Drug-Drug interaction

None noted.

Route/Dosage

Topical (Adults and Children >12 yr) Apply twice daily for 4 wk.

Availability

Cream: 2%

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

Impaired skin integrity (Indications)
Risk for infection (Indications)

Implementation

Topical: Apply small amount to cover affected areas between the toes and the immediately surrounding healthy skin. Dry affected area well if applied after bathing. Avoid the use of occlusive wrappings or dressings unless directed by health care professional.

Patient/Family Teaching

Instruct patient to apply medication as directed for full course of therapy, even if symptoms have improved. Emphasize the importance of avoiding the eyes, nose, mouth, and other mucous membranes. Do not use for disorders other than for which it was prescribed.
Patients with athlete’s foot should be taught to wear well-fitting, ventilated shoes and to change shoes and socks at least once a day.
Advise patient to report increased skin irritation, redness, itching, burning, blistering, swelling, oozing, or lack of response to therapy to health care professional.

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

Decrease in skin irritation and resolution of infection. If no clinical improvement is seen in 2 wk, diagnosis should be reviewed. Recurrent fungal infections may be a sign of systemic illness.