Treatment of dermatomycoses with topically applied allylamines: naftifine and terbinafine

Two examples of antifungal drugs belonging to the newly developed class of drugs referred to as allylamines have been evaluated for their efficacy, tolerability and pharmacokinetic profile when used topically in a 1% cream formulation for the treatment of dermatomycoses. These are naftifine (Exoderil) and terbinafine (Lamisil). Naftifine has been studied and is now used in a 1% gel as well, but this is not reviewed in this report. Both allylamines are very effective against a broad range of dermatophytes and yeasts causing tinea corporis, tinea cruris, tinea pedis, cutaneous candidiasis and pityriasis versicolor, and lead to mycological cure rates of 79–100% in the various indications. Both are well tolerated, rarely causing adverse events such as local irritation or burning at the site of application. Unique features of the drugs include their fungicidal action which has been shown by studies with terbinafine to allow short durations of treatment of 1–2 weeks and by studies with naftifine to be associated with anti-inflammatory activity. This new class of antifungal drugs appears to provide increased opportunity for successful treatment of dermatomycoses with topically applied formulations.