Griseofulvin

Griseofulvin is an antifungal compound isolated from strains of Penicillium griseofulvum. It is active exclusively against dermatophytes through inhibition of cellular mitosis. A 1 per cent spray solution is effective against athlete’s foot.³

One spray is applied daily, increasing to three sprays daily for more severe or extensive infection. Treatment should be continued for 10 days after lesions have cleared. The treatment period should not exceed four weeks.

Tolnaftate

Tolnaftate has been shown to be more effective than placebo in the treatment of athlete’s foot.⁴ It is active against all species responsible for athlete’s foot but has no antibacterial activity. It is available as a spray and a powder, which should be used twice daily and treatment continued for two weeks after lesions have disappeared.

It is well tolerated when applied to intact or broken skin, although slight stinging is probable. Skin reactions are rare and include irritation and contact dermatitis.

Undecylenates

Undecylenic acid is an antifungal agent effective in chronic cases of mild athlete’s foot.⁵ It is co-formulated with its zinc salt in one proprietary brand. Zinc undecylenate has astringent properties, which help to reduce irritation and inflammation. Undecylenic acid, the active antifungal entity, is also liberated from the zinc salt on contact with moisture on the skin.

Undecylenic acid and its derivatives are thought to be suitable for mild forms of athlete’s foot characterised by dry scaling of tissue, but they are less effective where the skin is macerated and moist. Up to four weeks’ treatment may be needed. Irritation occurs rarely. Undecylenic acid and tolnaftate are equally effective.⁶