Onychomycosis, or toenail fungus, is a common infection that can be difficult to treat, but products like Fungi-Nail Liquid can help. Topical medications such as tavaborole (Kerydin, Tavaborole) are sometimes used to treat toenail fungus (onychomycosis). Tavaborole is applied directly to the affected toenail.
Like all medications, including Jublia, tavaborole comes with the potential for side effects. It’s important to be aware of these potential side effects so you can make informed decisions about your treatment and know what to look for should they arise.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the tavaborole side effects you should know about, empowering both patients and healthcare providers to make the best choices possible.
What are the side effects of tavaborole?
Like any medication, tavaborole can cause side effects. Most side effects are mild and happen near where you apply the medicine.
Local Skin Reactions
The most common side effects of tavaborole involve the skin right around the nail you’re treating. These side effects can include:
- Skin irritation
- Peeling
- Scaling
- Redness
- Inflammation
- Itching
Nail-Related Issues
Tavaborole may also cause nail problems, such as:
- Ingrown toenails or worsening of an existing ingrown toenail
- Changes in the way your nail looks, such as discoloration or brittleness
Application Site Reactions
When you apply tavaborole, you might experience:
- Burning or stinging
- Dryness around the treated nail
If you have side effects that bother you or don’t go away, let your doctor know. They can help you manage the side effects or decide if tavaborole is still the best medicine for you.
Less Common and Potentially Serious Side Effects
While Tavaborole is generally well-tolerated, some less common, but more serious, side effects are possible. If you experience any of these, seek medical attention promptly:
- Allergic reactions: Although not specifically listed for Tavaborole, any medication can potentially cause an allergic reaction. Watch for a rash, hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Severe skin irritation: If you experience intense redness, burning, blistering, or other signs of severe irritation at the application site, contact your doctor immediately.
- Photosensitivity: Although not a commonly reported side effect, some topical medications can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Be extra cautious about sun exposure while using Tavaborole and wear protective clothing and sunscreen.
- Systemic absorption: It’s rare, but topical medications can be absorbed into your bloodstream. If you’re treating a large area with Tavaborole, pay close attention to your overall health. Report any unusual symptoms to your doctor, even if they don’t seem related to the treated area.
How to manage tavaborole side effects
Tavaborole can cause side effects, but there are ways to manage them.
Proper application
When applying tavaborole, be sure to coat the entire surface of the toenail and even under the tip of the nail. Follow the directions for application carefully.
Try to avoid getting the medicine on other parts of your skin, other than the toenail and cuticle. And don’t let it get in your eyes, mouth, or vagina.
Skincare practices
Keep the treated area clean and dry, and use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer to keep dryness at bay. Avoid harsh soaps and scrubs on the treated area.
When to seek medical attention
If the side effects from tavaborole are severe or don’t go away, talk to your healthcare provider. And if you think you’re having an allergic reaction, get medical help right away.
Talk to your doctor
Before you start using tavaborole, let your doctor know about any other medicines you’re taking and any other health conditions you have.
Also, be sure to tell them if you experience any unusual or bothersome side effects. If the side effects are too much to handle, your doctor may want to discuss other treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can you use tavaborole?
Tavaborole topical solution is typically used for 48 weeks (about 11 months). It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions exactly regarding the duration of treatment. Don’t use it for longer than prescribed.
What are the most serious side effects of levofloxacin?
It seems like there may be a typo here. You’re asking about levofloxacin, which is a completely different medication, an antibiotic. As this article is about tavaborole, I can’t provide details about levofloxacin. Please consult a separate resource or your doctor for information about levofloxacin side effects.
What are the side effects of Tavaborole topical solution?
Common side effects of tavaborole topical solution include application site reactions like peeling skin, redness, itching, burning, stinging, or ingrown toenail. These are usually mild and resolve on their own. If these side effects become severe or bothersome, contact your doctor.
Is tavaborole effective for toenail fungus?
Yes, tavaborole is an antifungal medication specifically approved for the treatment of onychomycosis (toenail fungus), and is an example of an azole, similar to Bifonazole. While it can be effective, it’s important to remember that it may take several months of consistent use to see noticeable improvement, and not everyone will experience complete clearing of the infection.
The Bottom Line
It’s important to be aware of the potential side effects of tavaborole before you start using it. Knowing what to expect can help you use the medication more effectively and safely.
Applying the medication properly and talking openly with your doctor about any side effects you experience is important for managing them. Don’t stop using the medication without talking to your doctor first. It’s important to finish the full course of treatment to get the best results, even if you experience side effects. Your doctor can help you manage the side effects and make sure the treatment is still working for you.