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Fungus toe nails

I have a problem with fungus toe nails. and I need your help finding the best top medicine for this problem.
Poster
  • Male | 25 years old
  • Complaint duration: 90 days
  • Medications: no
  • Conditions: no

Find low drug prices at local & online pharmacies

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Featured Answer

2 UpVoted this answer Steven Plotka, DPM Podiatry, Manalapan
Not all cases of nail discoloration and thickness are related to a fungal infection of the nails (onychomycosis). Previous injuries to toenails, psoriasis, hereditary nail dystrophy (abnormal nail growth) and several other conditions can cause nail thickeing. Topical medication may be adequate in some mild cases. Sample topical over-the-counter medications include Clarus (which has tolnaftate) or Tineacide (which has clotrimazole and urea). No home remedies such as vinegar, bleach, soaking, peroxide or Vick's Vaporub have been shown to have any significant benefit in a major medical journal study. There are some prescrition topical medications also available. Considerations are also given for oral medications or temporary removal of the involved nails under a local anesthetic in a podiatrist's office. Oral medications are typically fairly safe for younger patients, but bloodwork would need to be obtained to evaluate for liver problems before and during use of such medications due to rare liver problems. I would advise an evaluation by a podiatrist in your area to diagnose the true problem and discuss the treatment options.
Palmer Branch
1 UpVoted this answer
See you Podiatrist or Dermatologist for an answer and an appropriate treatment plan. Too many things can cause the nail to discolor and there is no reason to treat with OTC's or laser or oral medications that can interact or cause other problems with other medications you may be on. Don't treat your self before a diagnosis can be made.
Flavio Cordano
1 UpVoted this answer
Many treatments available oral and topical but the oral Lamisil works the best. Combination of oral lamisil and dani pro nail polish (they have clear base) works great! First you will need to have a nail biopsy done which determines it is fungus and what type of fungus it is.. And then decide on treatment. I don't recommend the laser..also don't expect overnight results..it takes months and up to a year to see results!
Kostadinka H Skandeva
1 UpVoted this answer
Fungus toenails are not always due to "fungus" There are several possible causes for thick toenails. I would suggest you have a nail culture first. After that a medicine can be chosen. Otherwise it is simply guessing.
Jerald Askin
1 UpVoted this answer
I agree with the other doctors that the right thing to do is to determine if your nail problem is indeed due to a fungus. Other microscopic organisms or even an injury to the nail can also mimic the coloration and texture that a fungus produces. The prescription medications, whether topical or oral, can be covered by your health insurance. Laser therapy for fungal nails is not covered by health care plans. The oral medication is the most effective treatment against fungal nails and although very safe in healthy individuals, one way to establish an even safer margin is to pulse the dose. This means not taking the medication every day for 3 months, but instead, taking it daily for just one week out of the month and repeat this "pulse" two or three more times. The common prescription oral medication for fungal nails (terbinafine) is very affordable at Walmart. I wish you success in your treatment.
Jacob Goldstein
1 UpVoted this answer
First, see your local podiatrist and establish whether or not you really have fungal toenails. Depending on severity, you may need topical, oral and/or laser treatment. Severe cases can require all 3 treatment types concurrently. Very mild cases may get by with topical only. Also mild cases may benefit from pulse dosing the oral medication, therefore diminishing the risks of side effects. Keep in mind, laser was approved by the FDA for "the temporary increase of clear nail."
1 UpVoted this answer
As other doctors have mentioned, you need to have this evaluated and verify you do have a fungal infection. If so, you have treatment options. As far as treatment with medication, it can be treated with topical medication or you can take medication orally. Topical treatment is no nearly as effective as oral. However, with the oral medication you run the risk of liver toxicity. This is rare but you should have a base line liver profile before starting oral antifungal medication. I usually prefer terbinafine 250 mg daily for 3 month. It will take about 1 year for the fungus to clear.
Thomas R. Komp
1 UpVoted this answer
While there are several ways to treat fungus toenails, you really need to find a podiatrist to be sure that (a) it truly is a fungal infection of the nail (some nails are thickened and discolored for reasons other than fungus), (b) is it mild enough that a topical medication is likely to work on it? If so, which one? (c) is the problem more severe, requiring the use of an oral agent - if so, bloodwork may be needed to prevent possible liver problems (d) would an alternative treatment such as laser therapy offer a better outcome or (e) is it severe enough, or is the nail ingrown such that it may require nail removal. You, as the patient always makes the final decision, but it could save months of aggravation and cost if you know your options up front.
Richard Eby
1 UpVoted this answer
Try to find a podiatrist in your area and make an appointment. Your physician will make sure to appropriately diagnose and treat your condition. As other physicians have stated, you may need a test to be performed on your toenails. There are many treatments available for toenail mycosis (fungus) including oral and topical medications. Some physicians are also able to offer Laser treatments which is another effective modality in treating this condition.
1 UpVoted this answer
As previously stated, it is important to see a specialist to confirm the diagnosis. Nail fungus can be treated with either topical or oral medication. You and your doctor can decide which treatment is best for you. Please contact our office at 281 334 5032 and we will be happy to make an appointment for you.