Pevaryl

What is Pevaryl?

Pevaryl cream is an antifungal medication that treats skin conditions infected with yeast and fungi. This includes tinea versicolor, a yeast infection caused by a yeast called Malassezia. When Malassezia converts into a pathogenic (disease-causing) form, it causes discolouration on the skin. As a result, darker-skinned people will likely have lighter skin, whereas lighter-skinned people will have darker skin.^[1]
Tinea versicolor (TV) is a curable condition. Typically, a topical cream like Pevaryl can treat it within four weeks. However, if the infection spreads, oral medication is usually prescribed.

How does Pevaryl work for tinea versicolor?

Pevaryl contains the active ingredient econazole nitrate. Econazole blocks the production of ergosterol, an essential component of Malassezia’s cell membrane (Malassezia is the name of the yeast that causes TV). Without it, the contents leak out of the cell, which affects the growth and spread of the fungus.^[2]

How to use Pevaryl for tinea versicolor

Apply Pevaryl using the following instructions:

• Rub the cream into the affected area of the skin
• Apply twice a day
• Keep the affected area dry
• The treatment will usually last 2-4 weeks

Are there different forms of Pevaryl?

There are 4 forms of Pevaryl available:

• Gyno-Pevaryl 150 mg Vaginal Pessaries, which treat vaginal thrush.
• Gyno-Pevaryl Cream and Gyno-Pevaryl Once 150 mg vaginal pessary. Both treat thrush in men and women.
• Pevaryl 1% Topical Cream treats fungal skin infections, such as tinea versicolor.