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Are there any prescription treatments for ringworm?

Ringworm is a skin infection caused by different types of fungus. Some cases of ringworm don't go away with over-the-counter antifungal treatments. And when ringworm is on the scalp, it's hard to cure with creams and ointments. In these cases, your doctor may prescribe shampoos containing >selenium sulfide (brand name Selsun) or oral antifungal medicines such as griseofulvin (Fulvicin U/F), ketoconazole (Nizoral), fluconazole (>Diflucan), terbinafine (>Lamisil), or itraconazole (>Sporanox). These drugs cure ringworm in up to 80 percent of people who use them. Doctors tailor the treatment of ringworm to the severity of the infection and the type of fungus causing the infection.

Severe or chronic cases of ringworm can become infected if your skin becomes cracked and broken. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. Such medicines are available to take by mouth or to rub on the affected skin.

Sources:
Mayo Clinic Family Health Book. William Morrow & Co., 1996.
The Merck Manual of Medical Information: Home Edition. Merck & Co., 1997.
Habif, Thomas. Clinical Dermatology. Mosby-Year Book Inc., 1996.
Diseases and Conditions, "Ringworm of the body." http://www.mayoclinic.com. Mayo Clinic Health. Last accessed 1/4/2007.
Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2007.

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