Mentax (Butenafine)
Drug UsesThis medication is used to treat certain fungal infections (e.g., athlete's foot).
How TakenThis medication is for use on the skin only and is usually applied once a day for four weeks. Clean and dry the affected area as directed, then apply a small amount of the medication on the skin to cover the area and surrounding skin. Cover with a bandage only if directed to do so by your doctor. Wash hands after applying the drug. Use this medication as prescribed for the full treatment time. Do not use large amounts, apply this more often or stop using without your doctor's approval. Stopping this medication too soon may lead to ineffective treatment and the reoccurrence of your infection. Notify your doctor if the condition for which this was prescribed does not improve after 4 weeks or becomes worse.
Drug Class and MechanismMentax hydrochloride is a synthetic benzylamine antifungal agent. Mentax is structurally and pharmacologically related to allylamine antifungal agents (e.g., naftifine, terbinafine). The exact mechanism of action of Mentax antifungal activity has not been fully determined. Mentax presumably exerts its antifungal activity by altering cellular membranes, resulting in increased membrane permeability, and growth inhibition. Although the exact mechanism of action of Mentax has not been fully determined, it has been suggested that the antifungal activity of the drug may result from interference with ergosterol synthesis. The drug appears to interfere with sterol biosynthesis by inhibiting the enzyme squalene monooxygenase (squalene 2,3-epoxidase), which results in decreased amounts of sterols, especially ergosterol, and a corresponding accumulation of squalene (the usual substrate of the enzyme) in the cells. Mentax, like allylamine derivatives, appears to affect sterol biosynthesis at an earlier stage than do imidazole derivatives.
Missed DoseIf you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
StorageStore at room temperature between 41 and 86 degrees F (5-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.
