Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects millions of people. If you’ve noticed changes in the appearance of your toenails or fingernails, you might be one of them.
While many people think of nail fungus as a cosmetic issue, it’s important to remember that it’s a real infection that can cause pain and discomfort, and may even spread to other nails or people.
Fortunately, there are new treatments available. While older treatments involved oral medications with potentially serious side effects, newer topical solutions like JUBLIA offer a more targeted approach to eliminating nail fungus right where it lives.
Understanding toenail fungus (onychomycosis)
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that affects the nail bed and the nail itself.
What are the symptoms of toenail fungus?
If you have a toenail fungal infection, you may notice:
- Changes in the shape of your nail
- The nail loosening or lifting up from the toe
- Thickening of the nail
- Discoloration of the nail
- The nail becoming brittle and crumbly
What causes toenail fungus?
Some things can increase your risk of developing toenail fungus, such as:
- Wearing closed-toe shoes
- Getting pedicures with tools that have not been sanitized
- Having chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or HIV
- Nail deformities
- Age and genetics
The challenges of treating toenail fungus
Let’s be honest: treating toenail fungus is a pain. Even if you’re on top of your treatment, it can be a long and frustrating process. Why is that?
First, your toenails are thick, making it hard for topical medicine to actually get where it needs to go. Second, nails grow slowly, so it takes a long time to see results. And finally, even when you do clear up the infection, it often comes back.
Older treatments weren’t always much better. Oral medications could have some pretty nasty side effects. That’s why new treatments for nail fungus are so exciting.
JUBLIA (Efinaconazole) as a Topical Treatment Option
JUBLIA (efinaconazole) is a prescription topical solution designed to treat toenail fungus. If you’re dealing with a fungal nail infection, it’s worth knowing about.
How JUBLIA Works
Efinaconazole, the active ingredient, works by stopping the fungus from growing. It’s important to apply JUBLIA not only to the nail itself but also to the skin around it, so the medication can really get to work.
Things to Keep in Mind
First off, you’ll need a prescription from your doctor to get JUBLIA. It’s also important to be aware of a few safety details:
- Like all medications, JUBLIA can have side effects. Talk to your doctor about what to watch out for.
- JUBLIA is flammable, so keep it away from heat and flames.
- It’s not known if JUBLIA is safe for kids or for pregnant or breastfeeding people, so discuss those factors with your doctor.
How to Use JUBLIA
Typically, treatment lasts for a few months, and you’ll need to apply the solution as directed by your doctor. For the best results, stick to your doctor’s instructions and be patient!
Frequently Asked Questions
What gets rid of nail fungus permanently?
Achieving permanent nail fungus eradication can be tricky, but oral antifungal medications often offer the best chance of complete clearance. Topical treatments, especially newer ones, can also be effective, though they may require longer treatment durations and consistent application. Laser therapy is another option, but its long-term efficacy is still being studied.
What deficiency causes nail fungus?
While no specific nutrient deficiency directly causes nail fungus, a weakened immune system due to malnutrition or underlying health conditions can increase susceptibility. Deficiencies in iron, zinc, or certain vitamins may compromise immune function, making it harder for your body to fight off fungal infections.
How long will one bottle of Jublia last?
The duration a bottle of Jublia lasts depends on the number of nails you’re treating and the severity of the infection. A 4mL bottle is typically designed to treat up to 5 toenails for approximately one month. Follow your doctor’s instructions and apply sparingly to avoid wasting the medication.
Does hydrogen peroxide get rid of toenail fungus?
Hydrogen peroxide has some antifungal properties, but it’s generally considered a less effective treatment for toenail fungus compared to prescription medications. While it might help to temporarily reduce the spread, it’s unlikely to penetrate the nail deeply enough to eliminate the infection completely.
What is the number one cure for toenail fungus?
There isn’t one single “number one” cure for toenail fungus that works for everyone. Oral antifungal medications like terbinafine and itraconazole are often considered the most effective, but they can have potential side effects. The best treatment approach depends on individual factors like the severity of the infection, overall health, and potential drug interactions. Consult with a doctor for personalized advice.
Conclusion
If you think you have nail fungus, it’s important to get it diagnosed by a doctor. While over-the-counter products like ciclopirox 0.77% gel are available, they might not work for the type of fungus you have. Newer topical treatments, like JUBLIA or Kerydin 5% solution, can be effective and have fewer side effects than older medications.
Talk to your doctor about the best treatment plan for your specific condition.