Fungal nail infections (onychomycosis) can be more than just a cosmetic issue. They can cause pain, discomfort, and even disfigurement of your nails. Dealing with them can be frustrating, to say the least.
Loceryl is one option your doctor might suggest. It’s an anti-fungal nail lacquer with amorolfine as its active ingredient. You paint it on your nails to tackle the infection directly.
But, like any medication, Loceryl comes with potential side effects. Understanding what those are is crucial for making smart decisions about your treatment.
That’s what this article is all about. We’ll take a closer look at the possible Loceryl nail lacquer side effects, how to use it correctly, and other important things to keep in mind. Knowing the potential downsides helps you weigh the pros and cons and work with your doctor to find the best approach for you.
Understanding Loceryl: What It Is and How It Works
Loceryl is a brand name for a nail lacquer used to treat fungal infections of the nails, similar to ciclopirox nail lacquer. Its active ingredient is amorolfine, an antifungal medication.
How it works
Amorolfine works by interfering with the way a fungus creates its cell membrane. By disrupting the cell membrane, amorolfine prevents the fungus from growing and spreading.
When to use it
Loceryl is designed for mild to moderate fungal infections that affect the outer and side parts of the nail. If the infection is severe or involves the lunula (the white, moon-shaped area at the base of your nail), you should talk to a doctor or other healthcare provider.
How to get it
In some places, you can buy Loceryl over the counter at pharmacies. It comes in a nail lacquer form with 5% amorolfine (50 mg/mL) and is available in 2.5 mL or 5 mL bottles.
Loceryl nail lacquer side effects
Like all medications, Loceryl nail lacquer has the potential to cause side effects. While many people use Loceryl without experiencing any problems, it’s important to be aware of the possible adverse reactions.
If you experience any side effects that are persistent or bothersome, it’s best to consult with your doctor or pharmacist.
Local skin reactions
The most common side effects of Loceryl nail lacquer are localized skin reactions around the treated nail. These reactions are usually mild and temporary, but can sometimes be bothersome. They include:
- Burning sensation
- Itching
- Redness around the nail
- Allergic contact dermatitis (rare)
Nail-related side effects
In rare cases, Loceryl nail lacquer can cause nail-related side effects, such as:
- Nail discoloration
- Brittle nails
- Nail breakage
Differentiating side effects from infection symptoms
It’s important to be able to distinguish between the side effects of Loceryl and the symptoms of a worsening fungal infection. If you experience any of the following, it may indicate that your infection is not responding to treatment and you should consult with a healthcare professional:
- Increased pain or swelling around the nail
- Pus or drainage from the nail
- Spreading of the infection to other nails or skin areas
If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are related to the medication or the infection, it’s always best to seek medical advice.
Rare and Serious Side Effects of Loceryl
While Loceryl nail lacquer is generally well-tolerated, there are some rare, but serious, side effects that you should be aware of.
Systemic allergic reactions are very rare, but if you experience a rash, hives, or swelling anywhere on your body, stop using the product immediately and contact your doctor.
You also need to watch out for severe skin irritation or blistering around the nail. If you experience these issues, you should seek immediate medical attention.
It’s always a good idea to report any unusual or severe reactions to Loceryl, or any other medication, to your healthcare provider. They can help you determine if the symptoms are related to the medication and recommend the best course of action.
What affects your risk of side effects?
With any medication, some people are more likely to experience side effects than others. Here are some of the factors that influence whether you’ll have problems with Loceryl.
Pre-existing skin conditions
If you have a skin condition like eczema or psoriasis around your nails, you may be more prone to a reaction.
Allergies
If you have known allergies to amorolfine (the active ingredient in Loceryl) or any of the other ingredients in the lacquer, you should avoid using Loceryl.
Other medications
It’s always a good idea to tell your doctor or pharmacist about any other medications you’re taking, whether they’re topical (applied to the skin) or systemic (taken by mouth or injection). This helps them assess whether there might be any potential interactions.
How you apply it
If you don’t apply Loceryl correctly, it could increase your skin’s exposure to the medication and raise your risk of side effects. That’s why it’s so important to follow the application instructions carefully.
Minimizing and managing side effects
If you’re using Loceryl nail lacquer and experiencing side effects, there are a few things you can do, similar to approaches when using Tolcylen for nail fungus.
Proper application technique
You’ll want to be sure you’re using Loceryl nail lacquer correctly, similar to other treatments where application methods matter, such as with Jublia. The application method includes:
- Filing the affected nail
- Cleaning the nail
- Applying the correct measured amount of lacquer
- Allowing the nail to dry
It’s important to apply the lacquer only to the affected nails. Avoid getting it on the skin surrounding the nail.
Skin care around the nail
To prevent dryness and irritation, use moisturizers on the skin around your nails.
When to discontinue use
If you notice signs of a serious reaction to Loceryl, stop using it immediately. For example, if you develop a rash, hives, or swelling, you may be allergic to one of the ingredients. Seek immediate medical care.
Seeking medical advice
If you have persistent or severe side effects, it’s always a good idea to talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can assess your situation and provide guidance on how to manage any issues you’re experiencing.
When not to use Loceryl
Like all medications, Loceryl is not right for everyone. Don’t use it if:
- You’re allergic to amorolfine or any of the other ingredients in the nail lacquer.
- You’re under 12 years old. The medication has not been tested and approved for children.
- You’re pregnant or breastfeeding. It’s not known whether Loceryl is safe for a developing baby or infant.
Precautions
Use Loceryl with caution if you have a history of skin reactions or allergies. You’ll also want to avoid getting the medication in your eyes or on any mucous membranes (such as the inside of your nose or mouth).
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy Emtrix?
Emtrix, a topical solution for nail fungus, is typically available over-the-counter at most pharmacies and drugstores, as well as online retailers. You can check with your local pharmacy or search online to find a retailer that carries Emtrix.
What are the side effects of using Loceryl?
Like any medication, Loceryl nail lacquer can have side effects. Common side effects include mild, temporary burning or itching at the application site. Less common side effects may include nail discoloration, brittleness, or detachment of the nail. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, it’s crucial to consult your doctor.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
No, you should never attempt to cut off a toenail infected with fungus yourself. This can lead to serious complications like infection or injury. Instead, consult with a podiatrist or doctor who can properly assess your condition and recommend the best course of treatment.
Should I wear socks to bed with toenail fungus?
Wearing clean, breathable socks to bed can help manage toenail fungus by absorbing moisture and preventing the fungus from spreading. Opt for cotton or wool socks and change them daily. However, socks alone won’t cure the infection; you’ll still need to use antifungal treatments.
What are the side effects of Loceryl?
Loceryl, also known as amorolfine, can cause side effects, the most common of which is a burning sensation on the skin around the nail. Other possible side effects include itching, redness, blistering, and changes in nail color or shape. If you notice any concerning side effects, stop using the lacquer and seek medical advice.
In Conclusion
Like any medication, Loceryl nail lacquer can cause side effects. Some common side effects include mild burning, itching, or redness around the treated nail. Rare side effects are more serious and include allergic reactions, changes in nail color, or nails separating from the nail bed.
To minimize the risk of side effects, it’s important to apply Loceryl exactly as directed. Follow all instructions carefully, and be sure to clean and file your nails before each application.
If you experience any bothersome or severe side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist right away. They can help you manage the side effects or determine if Loceryl is the right treatment for you.
Despite the potential for side effects, Loceryl is generally an effective treatment for fungal nail infections. Studies show that 70% to 80% of people see improvement after using Loceryl for six months.