Athlete’s foot can usually be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
Most over-the-counter athlete’s foot medications are usually able to resolve this common fungal infection in a few weeks.
This article provides an in-depth look at antifungal ingredients found in popularOTC athlete’s foot treatments.
It also explains how to use these topical treatments and when to see a doctor for athlete’s foot.
Terbinafine
Active ingredient:Terbinafine
Common brand names:Lamisil AT.
Lamisil comes in a spray and a cream form.
Clotrimazole
Active ingredient:Clotrimazole
Common brand names:Lotrimin, Mycelex.
Lotrimin also comes in a spray and powder spray, in addition to the cream form.
How it works:Tolnaftate inhibits an enzyme to stop the growth of fungus and prevent its recurrence.
Miconazole
Active ingredient:Miconazole
Common brand names:Micatin.
How it works:Miconazole halts and prevents fungal growth by inhibiting an enzyme.
Important information:See a healthcare provider if irritation or blisters develop.
How and when to use:Use undecylenic acid two times a day for four weeks.
Important information:Irritation and other possible adverse effects are rare.
Your visible symptoms may disappear before the condition is actually cured.
Youmay need prescription topical antifungal medications, which are stronger and more effective than anything available OTC.
Furthermore, your healthcare provider may prescribe you an antifungal that you take by mouth.
Notably, oral antifungal medications need to be taken for several months and can cause liver damage.
Finally, bacterial infections could result from itching and scratching.
If this occurs, you may require prescription antibiotics in addition to antifungal medication.
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