Evidence supporting the use of: Hydroxyquinoline
For the health condition: Athlete's Foot

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Hydroxyquinoline (often referring to 8-hydroxyquinoline or its derivatives) has been used as an antifungal and antibacterial agent in topical formulations, including those intended for skin infections such as athlete's foot (tinea pedis). Its utility in these applications is supported by its mechanism of action: hydroxyquinoline acts as a chelating agent, binding essential metal ions that are required for microbial growth, thereby inhibiting the proliferation of fungi and bacteria on the skin.

Historically, hydroxyquinoline derivatives such as clioquinol have been included in over-the-counter creams and powders for the treatment of superficial fungal infections. Several studies from the mid-20th century reported clinical efficacy of topical hydroxyquinoline-containing products in reducing symptoms and eliminating dermatophytes responsible for athlete's foot. However, the evidence base is not as robust or contemporary as that for modern antifungals like azoles or allylamines. Systematic reviews and large randomized controlled trials are lacking, and its use has diminished over time due to the availability of more effective and better-tolerated agents.

In summary, while there is scientific rationale and some historical clinical evidence supporting the use of hydroxyquinoline for athlete's foot, the strength of evidence is moderate (rated 3/5), and it is not considered a first-line treatment in current clinical practice.

More about hydroxyquinoline
More about Athlete's Foot

Other health conditions supported by hydroxyquinoline

Athlete's Foot
Skin (infections)
Urinary Tract Infections

Products containing hydroxyquinoline

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.