Oral Therapy for Fungal Infection of Nail

Dear Ask The Doctor: How do I cure nail fungus other than using an oral medication such as lamasil? I have heard about Fungisil and Nail Tec but find mixed results. Help please

Dear Wayne: I recognize your concern about nail fungus. For mild infections the topical medications that you mention like Fungisil and Nail Tec might work, if the infection is very superficial and has not covered the nail completely, other benefit of them is that they are very safe.

Oral medication is preferred in cases where more than half the nail is compromised, they will act better since the active ingredient is in the blood and that gives them ability to penetrate the nail plate. Newer antifungal medications have higher cure rates and fewer side effects due to their short acting properties.

To decrease the adverse effects and duration of oral therapy, topical treatments and nail trimming may be combined with oral antifungal management.  I recommend you to be evaluated by your physician first for the possible oral therapy. I wish you the best.