Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that makes up 50% of all nail diseases. Luckily, there are numerous toenail fungus medications you can try, some working better and much faster than the others, depending on the person and the severity of the infection. This list was created in the hopes that you find the right toenail fungus medication and treatment for you.
Topical Nail Solution
Of all the items in the list of toenail fungus medications, this one is by far the safest and most effective. Topical nail solutions fight toenail fungus by penetrating the nail bed, getting straight to the source of the infection. It’s very easy to use, coming in easy-to-carry bottles that include a brush applicator for easy and precise application.
It has absolutely zero side effects, and makes use of undecylenic acid, an FDA-approved antifungal) in combination with all-natural ingredients with powerful antifungal properties (such as tea tree oil and sunflower seed oil). Topical nail solutions naturally restore clearer, stronger, healthier nails in no time.
To use, begin by cutting and filing the affected nail as close to the source of the infection as possible. Thoroughly wash the area, and dry completely before applying the treatment to the entirety of the affected nail. Allow treatment to dry completely. You typically need to apply the solution twice daily. Make sure to read and follow the instructions carefully.
Oral Antifungal Drugs
Despite topical solutions being the safest choice, oral antifungal drugs are usually the first choice when it comes to toenail fungus medications due to its speed and efficacy. Oral antifungal drugs such as terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox) helps the new nail grow free from infection.
You usually need to take these drugs regularly for 6 to 12 weeks, and you can only see the end result once the new nail has grown back completely. However, the success rate for oral antifungal drugs appears to be lower in adults over the age of 65.
It’s also good to note that these drugs may cause side effects ranging from allergic reactions to liver damage, so it’s best to be careful when taking them. It’s also highly recommended that you consult with your physician or a medical professional prior to taking these drugs.
Medicated Nail Polish
Some doctors prescribe ciclopirox (Penlac), an antifungal nail polish. Similar to topical nail solutions, this medicated, antifungal nail polish comes in a bottle with a brush applicator.
You simply paint it on the affected nail and surrounding skin once a day. You don’t wash or remove the medicated nail polish immediately. You wipe off the layers with alcohol after seven days, and begin a fresh application. Unfortunately, if this is your toenail fungus medication of choice, you may need to use it daily for almost an entire year.
Medicated Nail Cream
Antifungal creams and ointments are also typically prescribed by doctors to treat toenail fungus. You rub the cream into the affected nail after soaking them in water and drying them completely. Since these creams work better on thinner nails, file the surface of the affected nail as close to the source of the fungus as possible before applying.
