Several Effective Medications for Ringworm

Ringworm is a fungal infection which affects the skin of humans and animals and can be treated with anti-fungal medicine. The infection usually resolves within 2 weeks but treatment must last for 2 or more weeks due to the ability of the ringworm to return if it is not fully treated.

If the rash is especially severe and does not improve upon topical treatment, a doctor may prescribe antifungal pills or oral medication. In this case, a prescription is needed as antifungal pills cannot be bought without a prescription. You also need to strictly follow the doctor’s order and check with them regularly to ensure that no adverse side effects occur (as antifungal pills can affect internal organs especially the liver).

Different Types of Medications for Ringworm

Allylamines – available in the form of creams, pills, and gels. Terbinafine (Lamisil) as a cream can be bought over-the-counter. It also comes in the form of oral granules (prescription needed).

Azoles – oral drugs which include fluconazole (Diflucan) and itraconazole (Sporanox). Brand names: Micatin, Monistat-Derm, and Lotrimin.

Ketoconazole –oral treatment for ringworm and can be prescribed as a 200-mg pill, a 2% cream, a 2% gel, or a 2% foam solution.

Clotrimazole – available in various dosages and form (creams, liquid, combination medicine) Brand name: Canesten

Griseofulvin – comes in pill form (require prescription). Used to treat scalp and thigh ringworm infections. Common brand names: Grifulvin V, Gris-PEG, S-Fulvin

Tolnaftate (Tinactin) – available in lotion, cream, gel, and spray forms and can be bought over-the counter. Effective against ringworms acquired from pets.

Clotrimazole/betamethasone (Lotrisone) – combination of antifungal and corticosteroid treatment used for ringworm that is burning, itchy, and inflamed.
Use with caution and for no longer than 2 weeks as complications may occur for prolonged use (from the corticosteroid portion of the treatment).

Last Word of Advice for Ringworm Cases

Ringworm is highly contagious and you should immediately treat any ringworm infection you may have. You should also take care that the infection does not spread by sterilizing and disinfecting all things that are exposed to your skin (towels, clothes, bed sheets). In order for you to avoid further contamination inside your home, ensure that the surroundings are always clean and tidy especially those frequently visited by your pets.