Exelderm vs. Zeasorb for Athlete's Foot and Jock Itch: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Exelderm

(sulconazole)

Miconazole

Summary for Exelderm

Prescription only

Exelderm (sulconazole) is an antifungal medication that works well to treat adults with common fungal skin infections like athlete's foot, jock itch and ringworm. It comes as a cream and topical solution that you apply to the affected area(s) once or twice a day. Side effects aren't common, but can include itching, burning, and stinging. The medication is available in brand and generic versions.

Indications for Exelderm

Athlete's foot - cream only
Jock itch
Body ringworm
Tinea versicolor (fungal skin infection that causes skin color changes)

Pros and Cons for Exelderm

Pros

Generally well tolerated with few side effects
Available as a topical cream and solution
Can be used once or twice a day

Cons

Can cause itching, burning, or stinging
Can be messy to apply
Not known whether it's safe to use for children

Common Side Effects for Exelderm

Itching (1-3%)
Burning or stinging (1-3%)

Warnings for Exelderm

For external use only

Summary for Zeasorb

Over-the-counter

Miconazole is a topical medication that's used on the skin for athlete's foot, ringworm, and jock itch. It's available over the counter (OTC) in many formulations, including a cream, ointment, powder, liquid or dry powder spray, and tincture. There are several different brand-name and generic versions of miconazole available.

Indications for Zeasorb

Athlete's foot
Jock itch
Ringworm

Pros and Cons for Zeasorb

Pros

Can treat three kinds of fungal skin infections (athlete's foot, ringworm, and jock itch)
Available OTC
Lower-cost generics available
Comes in different dosage forms
Few to no side effects when used as directed

Cons

Must use for 2 to 4 weeks to make sure your infection is gone
Can't use on children under 2 years old without speaking with a healthcare provider
Doesn't work well for fungal infections on the scalp or nails
Can't use for vaginal fungal infections
Spray formulations are flammable.