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Drugs for Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus has many causes and is widely spread, especially in military bases and gyms where showers are used by many different individuals. Toenails will often become thick and yellow and will split and peel. There are several prescription drugs that are regularly prescribed for treating toenail fungus.

  1. Lamisil

    • Lamisil is also known by the generic name terbinafine, is generally in tablet form and is used to treat infections that are caused by fungus of the finger or toenails. Lamisil needs to be used with caution by people with liver or kidney problems or any type of autoimmune disorder. Some side effects of Lamisil include joint pain, flu symptoms, weight loss and itchy skin rash. Signs of an overdose of Lamisil include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and skin rash.

    Ciclopirox

    • Ciclopirox is also known as Loprox and is a topical cream used to treat fungal infections. It is also sometimes prescribed as a shampoo and as a nail polish. It works by preventing the growth of fungus. Caution needs to be used by patients who have diabetes, epilepsy or are immunosuppressed. Side effects that have been experienced include itching, redness and mild irritation and burning.

    Itraconazole

    • Itraconazole is also known by the brand name Sporanox. It is generally in tablet form and used to treat infections that are caused by fungus. Itraconazole should not be used if you have had congestive heart failure, are pregnant or nursing or if you are allergic to Diflucan or similar medications. There are possible side effects that include shortness of breath, fever, swelling, numbness and nausea. The signs of an allergic reaction to itraconazole include difficulty breathing, rash and swelling of the face and mouth.

    Ketoconazole

    • Ketoconazole is also known by the brand name Nizoral and is a antifungal antibiotic. It is used to treat infections that are caused by fungus. Caution needs to be used if you have kidney or liver disease or any heart rhythm disorder. Alcohol will have negative side effects when combined with ketoconazole. Some of the reported side effects that have been reported by users of ketoconazole include weakness, dizziness, increased bruising, numbness, depression and nausea. No type of antacid should be taken two hours before or after taking ketoconazole. The antacid will interfere with the stomach absorbing the medication and will reduce its effectiveness.

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