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Are there any over-the-counter treatments for ringworm?

Ringworm is a skin infection caused by different types of fungus. Most ringworm infections can be cured with over-the-counter antifungal products. Topical antifungal drugs such as clotrimazole (brand name >Lotrimin AF cream), terbinafine (>Lamisil), miconazole (>Micatin), and tolnaftate (>Tinactin) are very effective in treating ringworm.

You can get over-the-counter antifungal products in a variety of forms, such as cream, lotion, powder, and spray. Cream and lotion antifungal products are preferred for ringworm infections on the body. Powder and spray products are more suitable for athlete’s foot. You apply these products to the affected area twice daily for at least four weeks. Improvement is usually gradual. Be sure to use the products exactly as directed and to keep the skin area dry and clean.

Talk to your doctor if the ringworm is on your scalp, beard or face, if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.

Sources:
Mayo Clinic Family Health Book. William Morrow & Co.,1996.
The Merck Manual of Medical Information: Home Edition. Merck &Co., 1997.
Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. American Pharmaceutical Association, 2000.
Medline Plus. Medline, 2007.
Diseases and Conditions, "Ringworm of the body." http://www.mayoclinic.com. Mayo Clinic Health. Last accessed 1/4/2007.

This answer prepared 1/25/2001.
This information updated 1/4/2007.