For most cases of athlete's foot, over-the-counter topical antifungal creams are highly effective. Look for active ingredients like terbinafine, clotrimazole, miconazole, or tolnaftate, and apply as directed for one to two weeks, even after symptoms clear up. If the infection is stubborn, severe, or spreads to your toenails, a doctor can prescribe stronger treatments. These include prescription-strength topical creams like ketoconazole, or oral antifungal tablets such as terbinafine or itraconazole. To support healing, keep your feet clean and completely dry.