Do Over-the-Counter Toenail Fungus Medications Work?

When it comes to treating toenail fungus, there are a variety of options available. Over-the-counter creams, such as clotrimazole (Mycelex), are not very effective for treating toenail fungus. Prescription nail polishes may be an option, but they take longer to work and are not as effective in severe cases due to their inability to penetrate the nail. Undecylenic acid is a fatty acid derived from castor oil that has antifungal properties and is commonly found in antifungal creams, powders, and ointments.

It works by weakening the cell walls of the fungus, thus preventing its growth and replication. Tablets for the treatment of nail fungus have been tested in several studies. All participants had a toenail infection caused by a skin fungus. The results of the study showed that tablets were considerably more effective than nail polishes or creams. Home remedies such as applying tea tree oil or vinegar are sometimes recommended for the treatment of nail fungus.

The Arishine treatment uses two percent deacetylated chitin, three percent O-hydroxybenzoic acid, and Angelica dahurica as active ingredients to eliminate fungi and heal damage. A common drug from the “azole” family used to treat toenail fungus is Jublia (efinaconazole). Tolnaftate is a medication that can effectively treat toenail fungus by interfering with the fungal cell membrane and causing the fungus to die. Tea tree oil has been a natural remedy for centuries to treat various skin conditions, including toenail fungus. Undecylenic acid works to kill toenail fungus and prevent it from growing back, while tea tree and lavender oil soften the skin. Funginix recommends applying the solution daily and being patient, as toenail fungus usually takes longer to treat.

At this stage, fungal infection is easier to treat with over-the-counter medications. The Funginix Healthy Nail Formula uses a unique combination of ingredients to eliminate toenail fungus and heal the skin at the same time. Common underlying comorbidities such as chronic kidney failure (with dialysis) and kidney transplantation, immunodeficiency, diabetes, cancer, and peripheral artery disease increase the risk of side effects when taking medications. When it comes to treating toenail fungus, your doctor will recommend or prescribe different medications depending on the type of nail fungus and the level of severity your infection has reached. Toenail fungus is a common fungal condition that often begins after a foot rash spreads to the nails.