What toenail fungus treatments are available in Australia?

There are various treatments available for toenail fungus in Australia, including:

Oral antifungal medications:

- Terbinafine (Lamisil®): This is a commonly prescribed oral antifungal medication used to treat toenail fungus. It typically requires daily dosing for several weeks or months.

- Itraconazole (Sporanox®): Another oral antifungal, itraconazole, can be used as an alternative to terbinafine. It is often used for more severe or resistant infections.

Topical antifungal treatments:

- Amorolfine (Loceryl®): This topical medication comes as a nail lacquer that is applied directly to the affected toenail once or twice a week.

- Ciclopirox (Penlac®): Similar to amorolfine, ciclopirox is also applied as a topical nail lacquer but requires more frequent application (once a day).

Laser treatment:

- Laser therapy involves using a high-intensity laser to target the fungus under the toenail. This method can be effective for some cases of toenail fungus, but its long-term efficacy and safety are still being studied.

Home remedies:

- Vinegar soaks: Soaking the affected toenail in diluted vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar) can help inhibit fungal growth.

- Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has antifungal properties and can be applied topically to the nail.

- Garlic: Garlic is known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties. Crushing fresh garlic and applying it to the nail can help fight the infection.

Combination therapies:

- In some cases, a combination of treatments, such as oral antifungal medication, topical antifungal treatments, and home remedies, may be recommended for better results.

It's important to consult a healthcare professional, typically a podiatrist or a dermatologist, to determine the most appropriate treatment based on the severity and type of nail fungus infection you have. They can assess your condition and recommend the safest and most effective treatment option for your individual case.