Health Library Allylamines for Ringworm of the SkinFrom Healthwise

Cream or gel (topical, applied directly to the skin)

Pills (oral)

Allylamines are a class of antifungals used to treat ringworm of the skin.

Terbinafine, naftifine, and butenafine creams and gels are applied to infected areas of the skin. Some types of terbinafine cream and naftifine cream are available without a prescription. You apply these creams 1 to 2 times a day for up to 4 weeks.

Terbinafine pills are taken twice a day for about 2 weeks.

Allylamines kill fungi.

Allylamines are used to treat ringworm of the skin. Creams are usually used first, and you can buy terbinafine and naftifine creams without a prescription. If an antifungal cream does not clear up the infection or if the infection is widespread or severe, your doctor may prescribe antifungal pills.

Allylamines are an effective treatment for ringworm of the skin.

Terbinafine works quickly, and longer treatment times are not necessary. People are more likely to complete a shorter treatment.

Side effects are rare when you use allylamine creams to treat ringworm.

Side effects of pills may include:

• Stomach upset.
• Headaches.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

If you are taking antifungal pills, your doctor may monitor your blood count and liver function during treatment to watch for any bad side effects. This may not be necessary in people who are otherwise healthy.

• Women who are nursing a baby should not take allylamine pills.
• Do not drink alcohol while taking terbinafine pills, because this may increase the risk of liver damage.
• Allylamine pills should not be taken with some other medicines, such as an excessive amount of acetaminophen (Tylenol). Let your doctor know what other medicines you are taking.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: April 19, 2007
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Randall D. Burr, MD - Dermatology
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