bifonazole

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum 

bifonazole exhibits antifungal activity thus it is effective against fungal infections caused by susceptible organisms. 

bifonazole exerts its antifungal effect by blocking the enzyme lanosterol 14-alpha-demethylase, which is involved in the conversion of lanosterol to ergosterol in the fungal cell membrane.  

bifonazole has a broad spectrum of activity against various fungi. It is effective against dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

Rash, pruritus 

Contact and allergic dermatitis 

Erythema 

Hypersensitivity reactions 

Application site pain and peripheral oedema 

Skin burning sensation, eczema  

Urticaria, dry skin 

Skin irritation and maceration 

Blister, skin exfoliation 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning 

None

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• bifonazole should not be used in individuals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to bifonazole or any other its component. 

Caution: 

• bifonazole should not be applied to open wounds or broken skin, as it may be absorbed systemically. 
• bifonazole should not encounter the eyes. In case of accidental eye exposure, flush the eyes with plenty of water. 
• The use of bifonazole during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be proceed with caution.

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: 

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excretion into human milk is unknown  

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 

Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women.  

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women. 

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women. 

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology  

bifonazole exerts its antifungal activity by inhibiting the enzyme lanosterol 14-alpha-demethylase. This enzyme is essential for the conversion of lanosterol to ergosterol.  

Inhibition of this enzyme disrupts the synthesis of ergosterol, leading to increased permeability and dysfunction of the fungal cell membrane, eventually resulting in cell death. 

Pharmacodynamics 

bifonazole causes the accumulation of toxic sterol intermediates and reduces the levels of ergosterol. 

With the compromised cell membrane, the fungal growth is inhibited, and the affected fungi undergo cellular damage and death.  

Pharmacokinetics 

Absorption   

bifonazole is absorbed through the skin and may penetrate the affected tissues. 

Distribution 

There is limited information on the distribution of bifonazole within the body. 

Metabolism 

bifonazole primarily metabolized in the liver. 

Elimination and excretion 

bifonazole is eliminated from the body through excretion in the urine and feces. 

Adminstartion

Administration 

bifonazole is commonly available in various topical formulations, such as lotions, creams, and powders.

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: bifonazole 

Why do we use bifonazole? 

bifonazole is used to treat various fungal infections affecting the skin, nails, and mucous membranes.   

bifonazole is effective against dermatophytes, which are fungi that can cause skin infections.  

bifonazole can be used to treat yeast infections caused by Candida species.