Naftifine: A Review

Background: Naftifine is a topical allylamine that is effective and safe in the management of superficial dermatomycoses. Naftifine is fungicidal in vitro against a broad spectrum of dermatophyte fungi and provides good activity against Candida and Aspergillus species. It is also effective against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. Objective: To provide a review of the pharmacologic properties and clinical efficacy of topical naftifine preparations. Methods: A review of the medical literature was performed using PubMed (1965–2006) using the search term “naftifine.” All available English-language articles discussing the pharmacology and clinical use of naftifine were reviewed for the article. Results: Naftifine causes interruption of fungal ergosterol synthesis and accumulation of squalene in fungal organisms. Naftifine also has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties such as a reduction in superoxide production and a reduction in polymorphonuclear leukocyte chemotaxis/endothelial adhesion. Naftifine has shown good efficacy and safety for a variety of conditions and is a useful treatment that provides both antifungal action and relief of inflammatory signs and symptoms. Few adverse events have been noted with naftifine use, the most frequent being mild and transient burning, stinging, or itching in the application area. Conclusion: Naftifine remains a reliable multifunctional agent for a variety of superficial infections.