Tolnaftate Substitutes

Tolnaftate is an over-the-counter fungal treatment for athlete’s foot, jock itch and ringworm, as well as other fungal conditions. This treatment is a topical cream that is applied over the infected area. Tolnaftate is not right for every condition, and there are several alternatives, both prescription and non-prescription, that can be used to treat fungal infections.

Terbinafine

Terbinafine is a kind of anti-fungal cream that is applied to fungal conditions such as athlete’s foot, jock itch and ringworm. The medication works by preventing the fungus from growing, which causes it to die out. Terbinafine is most commonly seen in the medication Lamisil. When using terbinafine, always follow the directions outlined by a doctor or the package instructions. Do not use terbinfine for shorter or longer than the recommended treatment period. Terbinafine also is sold in granular form which can be swallowed. Oral forms of terbinafine are usually sold by prescription only.

Mconazole

Mconazole is an alternative to tolnaftate. It is used to treat fungal skin problems (known as candidiasis). Miconazole is known as an azole antifungal cream which prevents the growth of fungus on the skin. Miconazole is typically sold as Monistat Derm or Micatin, and is available over the counter.

Clotrimazole

Clotrimazole is a topical cream sold to treat athlete’s foot, ringworm, jock itch and other fungal skin issues. Clotrimazole also prevents the growth of fungus after application. The brand names for the most well-known forms of clotrimazole are Lotrimin AF and Mycelex. Lotrimin can be purchased over the counter.

Hydrocortisone Cream

Hydrocortisone creams are used to treat some forms of jock itch. Hydrocortisone creams should only be used on fungal attacks that are not infected. The hydrocortisone cream can cause pain and damage to infected areas. If you are unsure about whether or not your condition is infected, consult with a doctor before applying a hydrocortisone cream on the area. Hydrocortisone creams are found over the counter.

Zinc Oxide Ointment

Zinc oxide ointments are used in conjunction with hydrocortisone creams. Zinc oxide is applied after the hydrocortisone cream to a non-infected area of jock itch or other fungal condition. Zinc oxide is sold in cream form over the counter.

Fluconazole

Fluconazole is an anti-fungal medication that is taken orally. Fluconazole is usually prescribed by a doctor if topical creams are not enough to stop a fungal attack on the skin. Fluconazole is used to treat athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm and many other fungal issues. Fluconazole is commonly sold as Diflucan.

Itraconazole

Itraconazole is an oral alternative to tolnaftate commonly sold as a prescription medication when topical creams do not work. Itraconazole fights fungal conditions inside the body, in finger or toe nails and on the skin. Itraconazole is commonly sold as Sporanox.