Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that can cause itching, burning, and cracking on your feet. Somewhere between 15 and 25 percent of people have athlete’s foot, so if you’re dealing with it, you’re definitely not alone!
While many cases of athlete’s foot clear up with over-the-counter (OTC) treatments, sometimes you need something stronger. That’s where prescription creams come in. This article explores some of the best prescription cream options for athlete’s foot.
You may need a prescription cream if:
- OTC treatments aren’t working
- you keep getting athlete’s foot
- the infection has spread
- you have a secondary infection
- you have a weakened immune system
Athlete’s foot: Symptoms and diagnosis
Athlete’s foot can be a real pain! Here’s what to look for:
- Itching, scaling, and redness, especially between your toes.
- A burning feeling on your feet.
- Blisters and cracked skin.
If you’ve got these symptoms, try an over-the-counter treatment first. If that doesn’t work within 2 to 4 weeks, it’s time to see a doctor. You should also see a doctor if:
- You have signs of a bacterial infection, like increased pain, swelling, or pus.
- You have diabetes.
It’s important to get a real diagnosis from a doctor, because other conditions can look like athlete’s foot. Your doctor will be able to properly diagnose your condition, so you can get the treatment you need.
When are prescription creams needed?
Most people who get athlete’s foot can clear it up with an over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal cream. But what if those don’t work?
You’ll likely need a prescription-strength medication if:
- The OTC cream doesn’t work after a few weeks.
- Your symptoms are severe or keep coming back.
- You have diabetes or another medical condition.
- Your immune system isn’t working as well as it should.
If any of these apply to you, it’s time to see a doctor or other healthcare provider. They can properly evaluate your condition and prescribe the best treatment for you.
Prescription topical antifungal medications: overview
When over-the-counter (OTC) remedies don’t clear up your athlete’s foot, like perhaps when using Lamisil AT Antifungal Cream, it may be time to see a healthcare professional. A doctor may prescribe a stronger topical antifungal medication.
Azoles
Azoles stop fungal growth by interfering with the way fungi build their cell membranes. Prescription-strength azoles include:
- Econazole
- Ketoconazole
- Clotrimazole
- Miconazole
Allylamines
Allylamines work in a similar way to azoles, but they act at an earlier stage in cell membrane synthesis, and can be found in medications like Naftin Gel. Examples include:
- Terbinafine
- Naftifine
Other topical antifungals
Other prescription topical antifungals include:
- Ciclopirox, an antifungal with a broad spectrum of action that also has anti-inflammatory effects.
- Tolnaftate, which is effective for mild to moderate cases of athlete’s foot.
Your healthcare provider can help you decide which antifungal is right for you.
Clotrimazole: A closer look
Clotrimazole is a prescription antifungal medication that can be used to treat a variety of fungal infections, including athlete’s foot.
How it works
Clotrimazole works by inhibiting the growth of fungi.
How to use it
If your doctor prescribes clotrimazole, follow these steps:
- Clean and dry the affected area thoroughly.
- Apply a thin layer of cream twice a day.
- Continue using the cream for the full duration of the prescription, even if your symptoms start to improve.
Precautions and side effects
As with all medications, clotrimazole can have side effects. Some of the most common side effects include burning, stinging, and irritation at the application site.
Rarely, people have allergic reactions to clotrimazole. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, seek immediate medical attention.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breastfeeding before using clotrimazole. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits of using the medication in your specific situation.
Oral Antifungal Medications
Sometimes, creams just don’t cut it. If your athlete’s foot is severe, widespread, or just won’t go away with topical treatments, your doctor might consider prescribing an oral antifungal medication.
Common oral antifungals include:
- Terbinafine
- Itraconazole
- Fluconazole
However, these medications come with potential side effects, including liver toxicity and gastrointestinal upset. They can also interact with other medications you might be taking. Because of the risk of liver toxicity, your doctor will monitor your liver function with blood tests during your treatment. Make sure you discuss all of your medications and health conditions with your doctor before starting an oral antifungal.
Athlete’s foot and diabetes: Special considerations
If you have diabetes, athlete’s foot is more than just an annoyance. It can lead to serious complications. High blood sugar can weaken your immune system and damage your nerves, making you more prone to infections and less able to feel foot problems.
If you have diabetes and suspect you have athlete’s foot, you should see a doctor right away. You may need prescription medication to clear up the infection. It’s also important to practice careful foot care, and most importantly, keep your blood sugar under control.
Prevention of athlete’s foot
Even with the best prescription cream, you don’t want to keep getting athlete’s foot over and over. Here are some things you can do to prevent the problem:
- Keep your feet clean and completely dry, especially between your toes.
- Wear shoes and socks that breathe and allow moisture to evaporate, and consider using anti-fungal socks.
- Don’t walk around barefoot in public places like locker rooms and swimming pools.
- Use antifungal powders or sprays if you’re prone to athlete’s foot.
- Never share towels, shoes, or socks with other people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a prescription-strength antifungal cream for athlete’s foot?
Yes, there are prescription-strength antifungal creams available for treating athlete’s foot. These creams typically contain higher concentrations of active antifungal ingredients compared to over-the-counter options, and are often prescribed when OTC treatments aren’t effective.
What do podiatrists recommend for athlete’s foot?
Podiatrists often recommend a combination approach for treating athlete’s foot. This includes keeping the feet clean and dry, using appropriate antifungal medications (either OTC or prescription), and practicing good foot hygiene. For stubborn or severe cases, they may prescribe stronger topical or oral antifungal medications.
What is the strongest antifungal cream available?
The “strongest” antifungal cream depends on the specific antifungal agent and its concentration. Prescription-strength creams often contain medications like ketoconazole, econazole, or terbinafine at higher concentrations than their OTC counterparts. A doctor can determine the most appropriate cream based on the severity and type of fungal infection.
Can you get athlete’s foot cream on prescription?
Absolutely! If over-the-counter creams aren’t cutting it, your doctor can prescribe a stronger antifungal cream to tackle that stubborn athlete’s foot. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional to get the right diagnosis and treatment plan.
The Bottom Line
If you think you have athlete’s foot, see a doctor to get it checked out. Prescription creams can help clear things up, but they work best when you also take steps to keep your feet clean and dry. Stick with your treatment plan and make the lifestyle changes your doctor recommends to beat athlete’s foot for good.