Dermatophytes, more commonly known as “ringworm”, are the most common type of fungi that cause infection of the skin and nails.  Most patients are happy to hear ringworm is due to a fungal infection and not an actual worm.

Ringworm can occur anywhere on the body but typically involves the scalp, feet (athlete’s foot), and groin (jock itch).  Typically,  ringworm can be treated with over the counter medications but with more serious and widespread infections, prescription drugs may be needed.

OTC Antifungals:

Strongest OTC -use for 1 to 2 weeks:

1.  terbinafine (Lamisil AT)

2.  butenafine (Lotrimin Ultra) -this is the same medication as prescription Mentax but cost 5 times less!

Other OTC options -these work as well but need to be used for longer.  Use for 3-4 weeks:

3.  clotrimazole

4.  miconazole

Should I use the cream, solution, spray or powder?     Creams and solutions work best.  Solutions should be used for hairy parts of the body.

Important notes:

•  Apply the medication to the rash and 2 inches beyond the rash.  The infection area is usually larger then just the rash area.
• Treat the rash for as long as advised -even if the skin looks okay.
• Do not use any topical steroids (i.e. hydrocortisone).  Often, topical steroids can worsen the infection.

Oral Prescription Drugs:

• These would be used to treat ringworm of the scalp, nails and extensive skin infections or when topical OTC medications fail.

1. terbinafine (Lamisil) the scalp, nails, extensive skin infections, and those that fail topicals.

2. itraconazole (Sporanox)

3. fluconazole (Diflucan)

4. griseofulvin (Gris-Peg)

So, there you have a quick rundown of your options!  If you have any specific questions, please leave us a comment!

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