Tinea Pedis
4 medicines
Tinea pedis, or athlete's foot, is a fungal skin infection of the feet causing itching, scaling, and cracking, usually cleared with topical antifungal treatment.
Grifulvin V
Griseofulvin
250mg
Grifulvin V is a antifungals medication containing Griseofulvin, available as 250mg tablets.
Key facts
- Tinea pedis, widely known as athlete's foot, is a superficial fungal infection caused by dermatophytes that colonise the dead outer layer of skin on the feet.
- It spreads readily in shared spaces such as pools, gyms, and communal showers, and thrives in heat and humidity.
- The most familiar form causes itching, peeling, and maceration between the toes; a drier form can spread across the sole, and a less common blistering form affects the arch.
- Topical antifungals such as terbinafine clear most cases; widespread, nail-involving, or slow-to-respond infections may need oral treatment such as griseofulvin.
What it looks and feels like
The most familiar form produces itching, peeling, and maceration in the spaces between the toes, particularly the fourth and fifth. A more extensive pattern can spread across the sole in a dry, scaly sheet, while a less common vesicular form raises small fluid-filled blisters on the arch. Skin can crack and become secondarily infected with bacteria: red streaking up the foot or ankle warrants prompt medical attention.
Clearing the infection
Topical antifungals are the usual first approach, and most uncomplicated cases respond well. Terbinafine is widely used and works by disrupting the fungal cell membrane; short courses are often sufficient. For infections that are widespread, nail-involving, or slow to respond, oral therapy with agents such as griseofulvin may be considered.
Reducing the risk of recurrence
The infection spreads readily in shared spaces such as pools, gyms, and communal showers, so wearing sandals in these environments lowers the risk of picking it up. Keeping feet dry, rotating footwear so shoes fully dry out between wears, and using moisture-wicking socks all reduce the chance of recurrence after treatment.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if red streaking spreads up the foot or ankle, if the skin around the infection becomes increasingly painful or swollen, or if the infection does not improve after a few weeks of consistent topical treatment.
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.