Fungal nail infections, also called onychomycosis, are frustrating and often difficult to treat. If you’re one of the many people dealing with this common problem, you’re probably looking for a treatment that’s both safe and effective.
One promising option is PACT®, which stands for Photodynamic Antimicrobial Therapy. PACT® nail fungus treatment offers a new approach to tackling these infections. It’s a painless, quick, and safe alternative that’s gaining attention.
This article will give you a complete overview of PACT® treatment. We’ll cover what it is, how it works, what the treatment process is like, and what you can expect during and after your sessions.
What is PACT®?
PACT® stands for Photodynamic Antimicrobial Therapy. It’s a non-invasive treatment option that uses light and a special solution to target and destroy fungus.
PACT® therapy includes two main ingredients:
- A special blue dye or gel. This dye contains a photosensitizing agent that seeks out and attaches to fungal cells.
- High-powered LED or UV light. When this light shines on the dye, the photosensitizing agent goes to work killing the fungus.
Photodynamic therapy has been used to treat skin cancer, acne, and other skin conditions. It’s an exciting new treatment for nail fungus, too!
How Does PACT® Work?
PACT® therapy uses a photosensitizing gel and a special light to kill nail fungus. Here’s a breakdown:
- Application of Photosensitizing Gel: First, the PACT® Nail Fungus Gel goes on your affected nail. This gel soaks in and gets absorbed by the fungal cells.
- Exposure to Light: Next, your nail gets exposed to a specific type of light, usually LED or UV. This light activates the special ingredient in the gel that makes it sensitive to light.
- Destruction of Fungal Cells: When the light hits the gel, it releases reactive oxygen species (ROS). These ROS damage and destroy the fungal cells, without hurting the healthy tissue around them.
PACT® Treatment Plan
So, how does the PACT® system work to treat nail fungus?
Initial Assessment and Preparation
First, you’ll need to see a podiatrist who can assess your nail and diagnose onychomycosis. They’ll also determine how severe the infection is and take a nail sample. Technicians will then analyze the sample to identify the specific fungus you’re dealing with.
To prepare your nail for treatment, the podiatrist may file it down to reduce its thickness. You may also need to apply a 40% urea cream for a period before treatment to soften the nail.
PACT® Treatment Sessions
At each treatment session, a technician will apply the PACT® Nail Fungus Gel to the affected nail, then expose it to the PACT® lamp for about 10 minutes.
Treatment Frequency and Duration
You’ll need to attend multiple PACT® treatment sessions to get the full effect. Most people need a minimum of five treatments, but some sources suggest that seven sessions may be even more effective.
Your appointments will be spaced out over several weeks or months. For moderate onychomycosis, you might have three sessions in two weeks, then repeat the series after two months. If you have severe onychomycosis, you might have three sessions in two weeks, then repeat after only one month.
Before and after PACT®: What to expect
PACT® treatment is effective for nail fungus, but it takes time to see results. The good news is that you should see noticeable improvements in your nails after about three months, as the healthy nail begins to grow in.
Toenails grow very slowly, so patience is key!
Cost of PACT® treatment
Let’s talk money. Here’s what you can expect to pay for PACT® nail fungus treatment:
- Initial consultation: Your first appointment will include an assessment and debridement (removal of infected nail). Expect to pay around $110.
- Per-session cost: Each PACT® session will run you between $90 and $150.
Preventing reinfection
Once you’ve completed your PACT nail fungus treatment, you’ll want to avoid getting another nail infection.
Hygiene practices
You can use these hygiene tactics to avoid nail fungus reinfection:
- Apply topical antifungal solution daily, or consider a Jublia alternative.
- Dry and air out your shoes regularly.
- Spray your shoes with antifungal sprays.
- Use a UV light sanitizer to treat your shoes.
- Wash socks in hot water and add an antifungal solution to the washing cycle.
- Wear socks containing silver.
Avoiding trauma and exposure
The following precautions can help you avoid trauma and exposure to nail fungus:
- Wear slippers in public showers and swimming centers.
- Don’t share nail clippers.
- Minimize micro-trauma to the nails.
- Wear correctly fitting shoes.
Precautions, Side Effects, and Contraindications
PACT® is generally considered safe, and there are no known side effects or contraindications for most people.
However, some patients report a slight tingling sensation during treatment, or nail staining. Also, PACT® is not recommended if you are pregnant.
Other Treatment Options
PACT® is a great option for some, but you may need to explore other treatments in addition to, or instead of, PACT®. For instance:
- Combination therapy: PACT® can be used with oral medications or topical antifungals.
- Other Options: Nail reduction, nail reconstruction, surgery, and the Lacuna Method are all alternative treatments for nail fungus.
In Summary
PACT® treatment offers a safe, effective, and painless option for treating fungal nail infections. If you think you might have nail fungus, talk to a podiatrist. They can diagnose your condition and help you create a treatment plan that’s right for you.