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Medication for Toenail Fungal Infection

Fungal infection of the toenails or fingernails is known as onychomycosis. Nail fungal infections are usually treated with oral or topical medications.

  1. Symptoms

    • Infected nails may appear thick, dull, distorted and brittle or crumbly. Nails can also separate from the nail bed.

    Causes

    • According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the most common fungi in toenail infections are dermatophytes. Fungi can invade the skin through the nailbed and thrive in warm, moist conditions like inside socks and shoes.

    Oral Medication

    • The American Academy for Dermatology states that most fungal nail infections require treatment with oral anti-fungal medications like fluconazole, itraconazole and terbinafine.

    Topical Medication

    • Topical antifungal medications like creams and lacquers may be used to treat fungal nail infections. According to the Mayo Clinic, topical medications usually do not cure infection, but may be used in conjunction with oral medications.

    Other Treatments

    • Surgical removal of the infected nail may be necessary in cases of severe infection. The Mayo Clinic also notes that home remedies like vinegar or Vicks VapoRub are purported to treat fungal nail infections, though results are anecdotal.

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