Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common problem. Some estimates say it affects as much as 20% of the population. If you have it, you probably know the symptoms: discoloration, thickening, and brittleness of the nail.
Ivermectin is a medication that’s usually prescribed for parasitic infections. You might have heard about it in connection with other conditions, but it’s important to know that it’s not typically used to treat toenail fungus.
So, why isn’t ivermectin a go-to treatment for toenail fungus? And what are the recommended treatments? This article will explain why ivermectin isn’t the answer and explore some options that actually work.
What is toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common condition caused by microscopic organisms that thrive in warm, moist places. Fungi often enter the nail through cracks or breaks.
You’re more likely to get toenail fungus if you:
- wear tight shoes
- walk barefoot in damp locations
- have poor circulation
- have a weakened immune system
- have certain skin or medical conditions
Symptoms and diagnosis
Toenail fungus can cause:
- white, yellow, or brown spots on your toenails
- thickening of the nail
- brittle nails
- discoloration
If you notice these symptoms, see a dermatologist. They can diagnose toenail fungus by looking at your nails and testing a sample in a lab. Microscopic examination can confirm the presence of fungus.
Why Ivermectin Is Not a Standard Treatment for Toenail Fungus
Ivermectin works by paralyzing parasites. Unfortunately, toenail fungus isn’t a parasite — it’s a fungus! So, ivermectin doesn’t have any known antifungal properties that would help to treat it.
There’s no scientific evidence that backs up the use of ivermectin for toenail fungus, and it’s not an FDA-approved treatment for any type of fungal infection.
Using ivermectin “off-label” (meaning, for a condition it’s not approved for) can be risky. Ivermectin can have side effects, and using any medication for an unapproved condition without proper medical guidance can be dangerous. It’s always best to stick with treatments that are proven to be safe and effective for toenail fungus.
What does work for toenail fungus?
There are a number of treatment options available. Here are the ones doctors and other health professionals typically recommend.
Topical antifungal medications
If the infection is mild, you may be able to clear it up with a topical cream or other treatment that you apply directly to the nail, or explore options like Emuaid. Examples include amorolfine, ciclopirox, efinaconazole, and tavaborole.
Dr. Milliman suggests filing the nail before you apply the cream. This may help the medication penetrate the nail more effectively.
Oral antifungal medications
If you have a particularly aggressive case of toenail fungus, your doctor may prescribe an oral medication. This is usually more effective than topical treatments.
Examples include fluconazole, griseofulvin, itraconazole, and terbinafine. Terbinafine, often known by its brand name, Lamisil, is one of the most commonly prescribed oral medications for toenail fungus.
Oral medications can have side effects, so doctors usually run blood tests to check your overall health before prescribing them. Oral therapy typically clears up toenail fungus 70 to 80 percent of the time.
Other treatment options
In some cases, using a combination of oral and topical medications may be more effective than using either one alone.
Laser treatments are also an option, but there isn’t much data to support how well they work.
Finally, if other treatments haven’t worked, your doctor may recommend removing the nail, either surgically or non-surgically.
Prevention and foot hygiene
The best way to avoid toenail fungus is to prevent it in the first place. Fungus loves warm, moist environments. You might also explore home remedies. Here are some things you can do to prevent the spread of toenail fungus:
- Don’t share nail clippers, files, or other nail tools.
- Wear breathable shoes.
- Change your socks frequently, especially if you sweat a lot.
- Wash your feet every day and dry them thoroughly, especially between your toes.
- Wear flip-flops in public showers, gyms, and pools.
- If you get pedicures, make sure the salon sterilizes their tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
No, you shouldn’t attempt to cut off a toenail infected with fungus yourself. This can lead to serious complications like infection. Consult a doctor or podiatrist; they can determine the best course of treatment, which may involve prescription medications, laser therapy, or, in rare cases, surgical removal performed in a sterile environment.
Has anyone ever cured toenail fungus?
Yes, toenail fungus can be cured, but it often requires consistent treatment over a prolonged period. The success rate varies depending on the severity of the infection and the chosen treatment method. Prescription oral and topical medications have shown effectiveness, but it’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
What kills really bad toenail fungus?
Severe toenail fungus typically requires prescription-strength treatments. Oral antifungal medications, prescribed by a doctor, are often the most effective at eradicating the infection from within. Topical medications and laser therapy can also be used, sometimes in combination with oral treatments, for stubborn cases.
Can I rub ivermectin on my skin?
Ivermectin is an antiparasitic medication primarily used to treat conditions like scabies and certain types of worms. While topical formulations exist for specific skin conditions under medical supervision, using ivermectin to self-treat toenail fungus is not recommended. There’s no established evidence supporting its effectiveness for this purpose, and it could potentially lead to adverse effects. Always consult a healthcare professional for appropriate treatment options.
Should I wear socks to bed with toenail fungus?
It’s generally recommended to wear clean, breathable socks made of cotton or wool to bed if you have toenail fungus. This helps absorb moisture and prevent the fungus from spreading. Change your socks daily and wash them in hot water with bleach to kill any remaining fungal spores.
Closing Thoughts
Ivermectin is not a way to treat toenail fungus. If you have toenail fungus, you should see a dermatologist or podiatrist. They can diagnose the problem and talk with you about better treatments, like antifungal pills, prescription nail lacquers, laser therapy, or even removing the nail.