sertaconazole nitrate

Sertaconazole nitrate is a broad-spectrum topical imidazole antifungal agent. It exerts its therapeutic effect through a unique dual mechanism of action: it inhibits the fungal enzyme lanosterol 14α-demethylase (CYP51), which blocks the biosynthesis of ergosterol (a vital component of fungal cell membranes), and it directly disrupts fungal cell membranes by inducing pore formation via its benzothiophene ring structure. This small molecule is primarily indicated for the treatment of superficial fungal skin infections (dermatomycoses), most notably interdigital tinea pedis (athlete's foot). While originally developed by Ferrer Internacional, it is manufactured as an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) by Viruj Pharmaceuticals. It is typically administered as a 2% topical cream applied twice daily.

Brand names

ErtaczoDermofixSertagermSertolZalain

Other names

sertaconazole7-chloro-3-[1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-2-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)ethoxy]benzo[b]thiophene nitrate