From the Guidelines
For a fungal infection on the arm, I strongly recommend using terbinafine 1% cream, applied daily for 1 week, due to its high mycological cure rate of approximately 94% 1. When treating a fungal infection on the arm, it is essential to choose an effective over-the-counter (OTC) cream to minimize morbidity, mortality, and improve quality of life.
- The recommended treatment should be applied to the affected area and about an inch beyond its border.
- Terbinafine 1% cream is a suitable option, as it has been shown to be effective in treating fungal infections, with a high cure rate 1.
- Application of the cream should be done daily for 1 week, as this duration has been proven to be effective in achieving a mycological cure rate of approximately 94% 1.
- It is crucial to wash and thoroughly dry the area before each application to ensure the cream works effectively.
- While using the cream, it is recommended to avoid covering the area with tight clothing or bandages unless directed by product instructions, as fungi thrive in warm, moist environments.
- If the infection doesn't improve after 1 week of treatment, shows signs of bacterial infection (increased redness, warmth, pus), or if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, consult a healthcare provider as you may need prescription-strength medication.
From the FDA Drug Label
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 30 g Carton Cures Most Athlete's Foot Terbinafine Hydrochloride Cream 1% Antifungal Cream Full Prescription Strength NET WT 1 oz (30 g) Purpose Antifungal
The recommended over-the-counter (OTC) cream for treating a fungal infection is terbinafine hydrochloride cream 1% 2 2.
- Key points:
- Antifungal properties
- Terbinafine is the active ingredient
- Available over-the-counter (OTC)
From the Research
Recommended OTC Creams for Fungal Infections
- Terbinafine 1% cream is a highly effective treatment for fungal infections, including those on the arm, with a fungicidal mode of action 3, 4, 5.
- Clotrimazole 1% cream is also an effective treatment, but may require a longer treatment course compared to terbinafine 4, 5.
- Naftifine 2% cream is another option, with a fungicidal effect against dermatophytes and a rapid onset of clinical activity 6.
- Miconazole is a relatively effective agent for the treatment of most mycotic infections, but is fungistatic, limiting fungal growth rather than killing the fungus 3, 7.
Key Considerations
- The choice of antifungal agent should be based on an accurate diagnosis of the fungal infection 3.
- Topical antifungal agents can be effective for treating superficial cutaneous fungal infections, but may not be suitable for infections of the nail or hair follicles 7.
- The cost of the treatment can be a factor in choosing a particular product, especially for large areas of the body surface 7.