Topical Antifungal Medication
A fungal infection may be treated topically using a cream, solution, lotion, powder, gel, spray, or lacquer that contains an antifungal ingredient. Treatment of dermatophyte infections can be accomplished with the same antifungal drugs used for yeast infections. Location and severity of infection have a role in determining how ringworm is treated. It is important to note that although certain types of ringworm may be managed with OTC drugs, others need pharmaceutical antifungal medication.
Topical antifungals are typically administered twice daily for two to four weeks to the afflicted region, with a margin of several centimeters of normal skin around the edges. Common types of medication for ringworm are Clotrimazole, Miconazole, Terbinafine, and Ketoconazole. After the final sign of the outbreak has faded, treatment should remain for another week or two. They are effective in eliminating localized infections, but it is not uncommon for the infestation to return, necessitating several rounds of therapy. Moreover, following the dosage prescribed on the label is essential to prevent unnecessary side effects that may arise.
