Mentax (butenafine hydrochloride) 1% cream is a potent, prescription-strength topical antifungal agent specifically formulated for the treatment of a broad spectrum of dermatophyte infections. As a member of the benzylamine class of antifungals, it offers a distinct mechanism of action that disrupts fungal cell membrane synthesis, leading to rapid fungicidal activity. Its optimized formulation ensures deep epidermal penetration, targeting the infection at its source for superior efficacy compared to many older azole derivatives. Trusted by dermatologists, Mentax provides a reliable, targeted solution for resolving stubborn fungal skin conditions and preventing recurrence.

Features

• Active Ingredient: Butenafine Hydrochloride 1%
• Pharmaceutical Class: Benzylamine Antifungal
• Formulation: Oil-in-water emulsion cream base
• Concentration: 10 mg per gram (1%)
• Penetration: Enhanced epidermal absorption profile
• Spectrum: Broad-spectrum activity against dermatophytes
• pH: Balanced to match skin’s natural acidity (approximately 5.5)
• Prescription Status: Rx-only medication
• Packaging: Sealed aluminum tubes with tamper-evident caps
• Size: 15g and 30g tubes

Benefits

• Demonstrates potent fungicidal (fungus-killing) rather than fungistatic activity, leading to faster resolution of symptoms and shorter treatment durations
• Provides sustained antifungal effect due to its ability to accumulate and persist in the stratum corneum, continuing to work between applications
• Offers rapid relief from pruritus (itching), erythema (redness), scaling, and burning associated with fungal infections, often within the first few days of treatment
• Creates an unfavorable environment for fungal growth through its dual mechanism of action, significantly reducing the likelihood of recurrence
• Exhibits excellent safety profile with minimal systemic absorption, making it suitable for extended use when medically indicated
• Delivers complete mycological cure (negative culture and microscopy) in the majority of patients when used as directed

Common use

Mentax is primarily indicated for the topical treatment of tinea pedis (athlete’s foot), tinea corporis (ringworm), and tinea cruris (jock itch) caused by susceptible organisms including Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, and Epidermophyton floccosum. It may also be used off-label for cutaneous candidiasis and tinea versicolor under physician guidance. The medication is applied to clean, dry affected areas, typically once or twice daily as directed, with clinical improvement usually observed within the first week of treatment. Complete resolution typically requires 2-4 weeks of therapy, though treatment duration may be extended for more extensive or resistant infections.

Dosage and direction

For tinea pedis: Apply a thin layer to affected areas and approximately 1 inch of surrounding healthy skin once daily for 4 weeks. For tinea corporis and tinea cruris: Apply once daily for 2 weeks. Wash hands thoroughly before and after application unless treating hands. Gently cleanse and thoroughly dry the affected area prior to application. Apply sufficient cream to cover the affected area and immediately adjacent skin with a thin, even layer, rubbing in gently until absorbed. Avoid covering with occlusive dressings unless specifically directed by a physician. Continue treatment for the full prescribed duration even if symptoms improve earlier to prevent recurrence. Do not use in eyes, nose, mouth, or vaginally.

Precautions

Use Mentax only as directed by a healthcare provider and for the condition for which it was prescribed. Discontinue use and consult your physician if condition worsens or if no improvement is seen after the recommended treatment period. Avoid contact with eyes, mucous membranes, and open wounds. Do not use on children under 12 years of age unless specifically directed by a pediatrician. Use with caution in patients with known sensitivity to any of the formulation’s components. If excessive irritation develops, discontinue use and consult your physician. The product contains cetostearyl alcohol which may cause local skin reactions (e.g., contact dermatitis). Do not use for longer than 4 weeks continuously without medical supervision.

Contraindications

Mentax is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to butenafine hydrochloride or any component of the formulation. It should not be used in the presence of documented resistance to benzylamine antifungals. Contraindicated for ophthalmic, oral, or intravaginal use. Not recommended for treatment of nail fungus (onychomycosis) or scalp infections (tinea capitis) as monotherapy due to insufficient penetration. Should not be used on extensive body surface areas exceeding 10% without medical supervision. Not intended for use in immunocompromised patients as sole therapy without systemic antifungal coverage.

Possible side effect

Most side effects are local and mild, including application site reactions such as burning, stinging, itching (2.3% of patients), erythema (1.7%), and irritation (1.2%). Less commonly reported effects include contact dermatitis, dryness, scaling, and worsening of clinical signs. Systemic absorption is minimal with topical application, making systemic side effects rare. Allergic reactions including rash, hives, and swelling occur in less than 0.5% of patients. Discontinuation due to adverse effects occurs in approximately 1.8% of patients. If severe reactions or signs of hypersensitivity develop, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.

Drug interaction

Formal drug interaction studies have not been conducted with topical butenafine. However, no clinically significant interactions with systemically administered drugs are expected due to minimal systemic absorption. Theoretical interactions may occur with other topically applied products; avoid concurrent use unless directed by a physician. Using multiple topical products simultaneously may increase the risk of local irritation or alter the absorption of either product. Consult your physician before using with other antifungal agents, corticosteroids, or retinoids on the same treatment area. No known interactions with oral antifungals.

Missed dose

Apply the missed dose as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled application. Do not apply double the amount to make up for a missed dose. Resume the regular dosing schedule. Extended intervals between applications may reduce efficacy but do not typically require restarting the treatment course. If multiple doses are missed, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. Maintain the total treatment duration as originally prescribed regardless of occasional missed applications.

Overdose

Topical overdose is unlikely due to minimal systemic absorption. Excessive application may lead to increased local adverse effects such as severe irritation, redness, or discomfort. If accidentally ingested, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of oral ingestion may include gastrointestinal distress. There is no specific antidote; treatment should be symptomatic and supportive. Wash affected areas thoroughly if excessive application occurs. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by medical personnel. In case of accidental ocular exposure, flush with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep tube tightly closed when not in use. Protect from excessive heat and direct sunlight. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Discard any medication that has changed color, consistency, or odor. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly discard any unused medication after treatment completion.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Mentax is a prescription medication and should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual results may vary. Always consult with your physician or pharmacist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment options. The manufacturer is not responsible for misuse or incorrect application. Report any adverse reactions to your healthcare provider and the appropriate regulatory authority.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate Mentax achieves complete cure rates of 78-85% in tinea pedis and 88-92% in tinea corporis/cruris when used as directed. Dermatologists consistently rate it as a first-line treatment for dermatophyte infections due to its favorable efficacy-to-safety profile. Patients report significant improvement in symptoms within 3-7 days of initiation, with complete resolution typically within the treatment period. The once-daily dosing regimen is frequently cited as improving compliance compared to twice-daily alternatives. Long-term follow-up studies show recurrence rates of less than 15% at 3 months post-treatment when used for the full prescribed duration.