Oral Medications for Fungus of the Feet

Fungus of the feet, also known as athlete's foot, is an infection that can lead to itching or burning between the toes, blisters, skin dryness and peeling of the skin on the soles of the feet or between the toes, says the Mayo Clinic. Some oral medications can be taken to treat fungus of the feet.

Itraconazole

Itraconazole is an antifungal medication also used to treat fungal infections affecting the mouth, throat, lungs and fingernails. Itraconazole is available as a capsule, liquid or tablet that should be taken as directed.
Drugs.com says that itraconazole's common effects include diarrhea, constipation, a skin rash, dizziness, a headache, stomach pain and itching. These side effects normally subside within two to five days, but you should call a physician if they remain for a longer period of time. Itraconazole's serious side effects include a fever, shortness of breath, nausea, hearing problems and pain when urinating. Swelling, fast weight gain, clay-colored stool, dark urine and yellowing of the skin or eyes are itraconazole's other serious side effects. Get immediate medical help when itraconazole causes any of these side effects.
Certain medications such as quinidine, lovastatin, cisapride, midazolam and ergonavine should not be taken with itraconzaole because serious drug interactions can result.

Fluconazole

Fluconazole, similar to itraconazole, is an antifungal medication that specifically treats yeast infections of the throat, vagina, mouth, stomach, blood and organs, says MedlinePlus. Fluconazole is a liquid or tablet typically taken daily.
Fluconazole's common side effects include diarrhea, stomach pain, dizziness, diarrhea, heartburn and an alteration in the taste of food. These effects should not be alarming, but you should call a doctor if they last for more than a week. Fluconazole's serious side effects include seizures, a rash, yellowing of the skin or eyes, trouble breathing or swallowing, easy bruising or bleeding and a poor appetite. Call a physician if fluconazole causes these effects.
Taking fluconazole with such drugs as warfarin, rifampin, sotalol, valproic acid, terfenadine and zidovudine may lead to the aforementioned side effects, so fluconazole's dosage may need adjustment.

Terbinafine

Terbinafine is an antifungal drug that treats fungal infections of the toenails and fingernails, says MedlinePlus. Terbinafine is a tablet taken daily for 12 weeks.
Terbinafine's typical side effects include stomach pain, a rash, itching, stomach problems and hives. These common effects should disappear, but you should call your doctor if they do not subside within one to two weeks. Terbinafine's serious side effects include vomiting, extreme tiredness, dark urine, pale stools, a fever, a poor appetite, a sore throat and a severe rash. Phone a physician if these symptoms appear.

References

Article reviewed by Danielle Last updated on: Aug 11, 2011

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