What is Daktarin Cream?
Daktarin Cream is a topical antifungal treatment used to treat a wide range of fungal and yeast infections, including athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm, and sweat rash. It contains 2% miconazole nitrate, an effective antifungal and antibacterial ingredient that helps clear infection and soothe irritation. Daktarin can also be used to treat fungal infections of the skin folds and external thrush in men and women.
How does it work?
The active ingredient, miconazole nitrate, works by interfering with the cell membranes of fungi and yeasts, preventing them from growing and spreading. It also has antibacterial properties, which help reduce the risk of secondary bacterial infections that can occur in cracked or broken skin. This dual action helps relieve symptoms like itching, redness, scaling, and soreness while clearing the infection.
How to use Daktarin Cream
Apply a thin layer to the affected area and surrounding skin twice a day (morning and night)
Rub in gently until the cream disappears
Continue treatment for at least seven days after skin symptoms have cleared to prevent the infection from returning
Wash hands before and after use
Wear clean socks or underwear daily if treating foot or groin infections
Skin infections usually need two to six weeks of treatment, depending on their site and severity, followed by at least a week after symptoms disappear. Nail infections have different instructions: apply once or twice daily and continue for ten days after the infection has cleared.
Who can use Daktarin Cream?
Daktarin Cream is suitable for all ages, including babies. It can be used on most areas of the body, including feet, groin, outer vaginal area, and armpits. It is safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before use.
Warnings and precautions
- For external use only — do not use inside the mouth, eyes, or vagina
- Stop using if irritation or allergy develops
- Do not use on broken skin unless advised by a healthcare professional
- Speak to a pharmacist before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Avoid tight-fitting clothing on the affected area to allow the skin to breathe
Benzoic acid (E210) can irritate skin and may increase jaundice in newborn babies up to four weeks old. Butylated hydroxyanisole (E320) may cause local skin reactions or irritate eyes and mucous membranes. Ask for advice before treating a newborn and check the leaflet’s full ingredients if you have an allergy.
Can I use Daktarin Cream with other medicines?
Daktarin Cream is unlikely to interact with other topical medicines. However, if you're using any other skin treatments or taking blood-thinning medications like warfarin, check with your pharmacist or GP first. Miconazole may enhance the effects of warfarin, so monitoring may be needed.
Sources and further information
Frequently Asked Questions
What infections does Daktarin Cream treat?
Daktarin Cream is used to treat fungal skin infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm, jock itch, sweat rash, and external thrush. It also helps prevent secondary bacterial infections.
How long does Daktarin Cream take to work?
Most people start to feel relief from itching and irritation within a few days, but it's important to continue using the cream for at least seven days after skin symptoms have cleared to fully eliminate the infection.
Is Daktarin Cream safe to use during pregnancy?
Yes, Daktarin Cream is generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, it's best to speak to a healthcare professional before using any medication while pregnant.
