While topical medicines are used to treat fungal nail infections, the results are not as desirable or effective as having laser treatment. Topical antifungal medicines can be obtained on prescription or bought over the counter. They work by killing or preventing the growth of fungi.
Uses of Topical Antifungal Medicine
These medicines are used to treat fungal nail infections, and to prevent reinfection. They can also be applied when a nail has been removed, and to stop athlete’s foot from causing a nail to become infected.
There are a number of different topical medicines available for different types of infection, such as:
- Ciclopirox for fungal infections on the surface of the nail
- Clotrimazole for infections caused by molds and dermatophytes
- Oxiconazole, Ketoconazole, or Econazole for infections caused by yeasts or dermatophytes
- Terbinafine for dermatophyte infections.
How Antifungal Medicines are Applied
Topical medicines come in a number of different forms. They might be creams or lotions to be applied to the skin and nails, or solutions or sprays applied directly onto the nail. You can also get lacquers to paint onto the nail.
Usually the medicine is applied once or twice a day. Depending upon the brand of medicine you use, it may be a few weeks until the infection is killed. However, you may have to carry on using the medicine for a longer period to prevent reinfection.
This is one example of where laser treatment is advantageous, where only one treatment of less than half an hour will be sufficient.
Effectiveness of Topical Medicines
Topical medicines do not provide the same results as laser treatment. For example, it has been reported that Ciclopirox killed fungal infections in 30% of users.
Conversely, at Clear Toes Clinic in Houston, the specialized laser used in treating toenail fungus is over 90% effective.
Possible Side Effects
One disadvantage to using topical antifungal medicines is that they may cause side effects.
You should stop use if you experience any of the following:
- itching
- severe blisters
- redness
- irritation
- dryness
As with any medicine, you should always take medical advice before use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
To learn more about the benefits of the laser treatment alternative, browse the Clear Toes Clinic website.
