Canespor cream 1% tube 15 g

Pharmacological Properties

Pharmacodynamics. The active substance of Canespor and Canespor Set – bifonazole – is an imidazole derivative with a broad spectrum of antifungal activity. It is active against dermatophytes, yeasts, molds, and other fungi (Malassezia furfur, Corynebacterium minutissimum). Bifonazole inhibits ergosterol biosynthesis at two different levels, leading to structural and functional damage to the fungal cell membrane.

The MIC for the specified fungi is 0.062–16 µg/ml or less. Bifonazole exhibits fungicidal activity against dermatophytes and fungistatic or fungicidal action against Candida species depending on concentration. It is also effective against resistant fungal strains.

In Canespor Set, urea softens the keratinized nail tissue, enabling painless, non-invasive removal of infected nail areas. It also enhances bifonazole penetration, thus increasing antifungal effectiveness.

Pharmacokinetics

Bifonazole penetrates well into affected skin layers, reaching therapeutic concentrations within 6 hours. Its protective effect lasts for 48–72 hours after application. Systemic absorption is negligible, even under inflammatory conditions.

Indications

• Fungal infections of the skin caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, molds, and other fungi.
• Superficial candidiasis and skin mycoses, including foot, hand, and body folds.
• Pityriasis versicolor.
• Erythrasma.
• Treatment of the nail bed after removal of the infected nail plate (onychomycosis).

Dosage and Administration

Canespor Cream: Apply once daily, preferably in the evening, with a thin layer to the affected area and gently rub in. Treatment duration: foot mycoses – 3 weeks; hand, body, and fold mycoses – 2–3 weeks; pityriasis versicolor and erythrasma – 2 weeks; superficial candidiasis – 2–4 weeks. After nail removal, apply once daily for 4 weeks.

Canespor Set: Apply to the affected nail once daily to cover the entire nail surface, cover with the included plaster for 24 hours, then remove, wash, and scrape softened tissue. Continue for 7–14 days until the infected nail is fully removed. Follow with Canespor Cream for about 4 weeks.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to bifonazole or any component of the formulation. Not for vaginal use or scalp infections. Do not apply before infected nail removal when treating onychomycosis.

Side Effects

Possible local reactions include redness, irritation, itching, burning, blistering, dryness, and allergic dermatitis. Systemic hypersensitivity is rare. All reactions usually resolve after discontinuation.

Special Precautions

Avoid eye contact or ingestion. Keep out of reach of children. Use with caution in patients allergic to other imidazole antifungals. During pregnancy, Canespor may be used only if necessary, preferably avoiding use in the first trimester. Breastfeeding should be discontinued during treatment.

Interactions

Topical bifonazole may increase INR when used with warfarin. Monitor accordingly.

Overdose

No cases of overdose reported. Systemic intoxication is unlikely with topical use.

Storage

Canespor Cream: No special storage conditions required.
Canespor Set: Store at temperatures not exceeding 30°C.