Treatment of skin fungus is one of the common health problems in general people, especially in hot and humid climates, which allows fungus to grow well and cause various skin problems such as ringworm, tinea versicolor, or groin fungus. There are many types of drugs used to treat fungus, each with its own properties and advantages and disadvantages. Here we will analyze 5 popular drugs for treating fungal dermatitis: Clotrimazole, Miconazole, Terbinafine, Ketoconazole, and Steroid Combination Creams.

1. Clotrimazole Clotrimazole is an effective antifungal drug that covers a wide range of fungi. It works by inhibiting the formation of fungal cell walls, which prevents the fungi from growing and spreading. The highlight of Clotrimazole is that it is inexpensive and easy to find. It is suitable for treating ringworm, tinea, and fungus in the groin area. However, the disadvantage is that it may take about 2-4 weeks to completely cure, which may not be suitable for those who need treatment in a short period of time. The average price is 100-200 baht.

2. Miconazole Miconazole is an antifungal drug that reduces inflammation and itching, and helps eliminate fungi that cause skin problems. The highlight of miconazole is that it can quickly reduce itching and is suitable for people who are allergic to other types of drugs. It can also be used on both the skin and scalp, but may not be suitable for use in very sensitive areas, such as around the eyes. The disadvantage is that the price is quite high compared to other drugs. The average price is 150-300 baht.

3. Terbinafine Terbinafine is a highly effective antifungal drug that works by inhibiting the production of substances that fungi need to grow, causing damage and death to the fungus. Its highlight is that it has a shorter treatment time than other drugs, about 1-2 weeks, especially for treating ringworm and nail fungus. However, the disadvantage is that it is more expensive than other drugs and may cause dry or peeling skin in some people. The average price is 300-500 baht.

4. Ketoconazole Ketoconazole is an antifungal drug that inhibits the synthesis of substances necessary for the creation of fungal cells. It is used to treat severe fungal dermatitis. Its highlight is that it can be used in both cream and shampoo forms, which are suitable for use on the scalp and also help reduce dandruff. However, the disadvantage is that it can cause skin irritation or allergies in some cases. The average price is 200-400 baht.

5. Steroid Combination Creams Steroid combination creams, such as Lotriderm (Betamethasone + Clotrimazole) or Daktacort, are a combination of steroids and antifungal agents that can immediately reduce inflammation and itching. At the same time, the antifungal agents effectively deal with the fungus. The highlight is that they are suitable for people with severe itching or skin inflammation, and they work quickly. However, the disadvantage is that using steroids for too long can cause the skin to become thin, and they must be used under the guidance of a doctor to avoid possible side effects. The average price is 250-500 baht.

Each antifungal medication has different properties and advantages and disadvantages. The choice of medication should be based on the type of fungus being treated, the user’s skin condition, and other factors such as treatment time and cost. For those who need a quick cure, terbinafine or miconazole may be a good option, while clotrimazole may be a good choice for those looking for a less expensive and more readily available medication. Steroid combination medications are suitable for those with severe inflammation, but should be used with caution to avoid potential long-term side effects.