Health Library Azoles for Ringworm of the SkinFrom Healthwise

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

Pills (oral)

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

Azole creams are applied directly to the skin 1 to 2 times a day for about 2 to 4 weeks. Azole pills are taken once a day or once a week for 1 to 4 weeks.

Clotrimazole/betamethasone (Lotrisone), a combination antifungal and corticosteroid, is sometimes used to treat ringworm that is burning, itchy, and inflamed. Use this prescription medicine with caution, because complications can arise with long-term use of corticosteroids.

Azoles inhibit the growth of fungi.

Azoles are used to treat ringworm of the skin. Creams are usually used first. Some azole creams, such as Monistat-Derm and Lotrimin, are available without a prescription. If an antifungal cream does not clear up the infection or if the infection is severe and widespread, then your doctor may prescribe antifungal pills.

Azoles are effective for treatment of ringworm of the skin.

For better absorption into the body, take azole pills with cola or orange juice.

Side effects are rare when you use azole creams to treat ringworm of the skin. When you use azole pills, side effects may include:

• Stomach upset.
• Headaches.
• Rash.
• Liver problems, in rare cases.

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

People taking antifungal pills may have their blood counts and liver and kidney function monitored during treatment to watch for any bad side effects. This may not be necessary in healthy children.

• Women who are pregnant or nursing should not take azole pills.
• Do not drink alcohol while taking azole pills, because this may increase the risk of liver damage.
• Azole pills should not be taken with some other medicines. Let your doctor know what other medicines you are taking.
• Do not take ketoconazole pills within 2 hours of taking antacids, because it will reduce the amount of ketoconazole absorbed into your blood.

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

Author:	Bets Davis, MFA	Last Updated: March 24, 2009
Medical Review:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
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