Onychomycosis is the name for a fungal infection in your fingernails or toenails. It can cause your nails to change color, get thicker, and even crumble.
One common prescription medication used to treat nail fungus is Penlac (ciclopirox). It’s a topical treatment that you paint onto your affected nails.
However, Penlac isn’t always the best choice for everyone. It might not be effective enough, it might cause side effects, or it might be too expensive. That’s why many people look for a Penlac alternative to treat their nail fungus. This article will explore some of those alternatives.
Understanding Penlac (Ciclopirox)
Before we dive into Penlac alternatives, let’s talk about Penlac itself. Here’s a quick rundown:
- How it works: Penlac is an antifungal medication.
- How to use it: You apply Penlac directly to the affected nails.
- Side effects: Make sure you’re aware of the potential side effects before starting treatment.
- Its limits: Penlac isn’t always the most effective option, especially for severe infections. Oral medications tend to have a higher success rate.
Oral antifungal medications: Terbinafine and itraconazole
When a topical treatment like Penlac doesn’t work, your doctor might prescribe an oral medication. There are two main options:
Terbinafine (Lamisil)
Terbinafine is an antifungal medication that you take by mouth. It generally works more quickly than Penlac.
But terbinafine, also known as Lamisil, has potential side effects, including elevated liver enzymes and interactions with other medications. According to Drugs.com, 156 drugs are known to interact with terbinafine.
On a scale of 1 to 10, patients rated terbinafine an average of 6.4 out of 10, based on 487 ratings.
Itraconazole
Itraconazole is another oral antifungal medication. It’s often given in “pulse dosing” regimens, meaning you take the medication for a certain period, stop for a period, and then resume.
Like terbinafine, itraconazole carries a risk of drug interactions.
Topical Alternatives to Penlac
If you’d prefer to try another topical treatment besides Penlac, here are some possibilities to discuss with your doctor:
Amorolfine
Amorolfine is a topical antifungal nail lacquer that’s available in some countries. It can work, but treatment can take a long time.
Tavaborole (Kerydin)
Tavaborole is a newer topical antifungal medication with a different mechanism of action than Penlac.
Be sure to discuss how often to apply it and how long your treatment may last.
Efinaconazole (Jublia)
Efinaconazole is another relatively new topical antifungal.
In clinical trials, Jublia has demonstrated higher success rates compared to Penlac, but if you’re seeking a Jublia alternative, there are OTC options and home remedies to consider.
Non-prescription and complementary therapies
If you’re looking for a Penlac alternative, you may be interested in some of these over-the-counter and complementary therapies.
Undecylenic acid
Undecylenic acid is an antifungal medication available without a prescription.
It’s often used for mild fungal infections, but it has limitations and may not be as effective for more severe or persistent infections.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil has antifungal properties that some people find helpful for nail fungus.
Before applying tea tree oil to your nails, you’ll need to dilute it with a carrier oil. Even diluted, tea tree oil can irritate your skin.
Vinegar soaks
Vinegar is acidic, and soaking your nails in vinegar may help prevent fungal growth.
Vinegar soaks are generally safe, but they can cause skin irritation. Be sure to dilute the vinegar with water, and don’t soak your nails for too long.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an over the counter ciclopirox?
No, ciclopirox, the active ingredient in Penlac, is a prescription-strength antifungal medication. You won’t find it in over-the-counter products. If you’re looking for alternatives, you’ll need to consider different active ingredients or prescription options.
How to know if toenail fungus is dying?
It can be tricky to tell! As the fungus dies, you might notice new, healthy nail growth emerging from the base. The infected part of the nail may also become less thick and discolored. However, it takes time, so be patient and consistent with treatment.
Where can I get Penlac over the counter?
You can’t! Penlac is a prescription medication. You’ll need to see a doctor to get a prescription before you can purchase it from a pharmacy. Don’t trust websites claiming to sell it without one; they’re likely scams.
What kills toenail fungus permanently?
Unfortunately, “permanent” is a strong word. Toenail fungus can be stubborn. Oral antifungal medications generally have the highest success rates, but they also come with potential side effects. Topical treatments like Penlac or its alternatives can be effective, but often require long-term use and may not always eradicate the infection completely.
What is the most successful fungal nail treatment?
Oral antifungal medications, such as terbinafine and itraconazole, tend to be the most successful at clearing toenail fungus. However, they can have side effects and require monitoring by a doctor. The best treatment for you depends on the severity of your infection, your overall health, and your doctor’s recommendations.
In Closing
Several Penlac alternatives are available, including oral medications like terbinafine and itraconazole, and topical medications like amorolfine, tavaborole, and efinaconazole. You can also try non-prescription options like undecylenic acid, tea tree oil, or even vinegar.
The best choice depends on how severe your infection is and your overall health. Always talk with your doctor about your options. Your doctor can diagnose your condition and help you choose the best treatment for your needs.