Over-the counter nail fungus treatments are drugs sold in the market requiring no prescription from doctors. These items are usually prepared commercially for self-help approach. Household remedies and organic products use for fungal infections may be time consuming. But the good news is that these over-the-counter nail fungus treatments are usually affordable and have lesser side effects or nothing at all. Hence, most patients prefer using this type of toenail fungus remedy among all other treatment options available.
For now, there are over thousands of over-the-counter nail fungus treatment products available in the market. So how do we know which ones are more effective and safe? These treatments include lotions, creams, ointments, household products and natural remedies like oils.
All-natural over-the-counter nail fungus treatments include olive oil and tea tree oil. Saprox is an antifungal mud treatment coming form Czech Republic. Home remedies include Vicks vaporub, vinegars (ex: Apple Cider vinegar), DMSO or dimethyl sulfoxide, and mouthwash (Listerine). In using tea tree oil, a cotton swab is used and rubbed into the affected nail twice a day.
Topical antifungal drugs and pills are categorized according to the active ingredients in the drug. There are 3 active ingredients, namely: Miconazole nitrate, Cotrimazole, and Terbinafine hydrochloride.
The active ingredient Terbinafine hydrochloride is the most commonly used ingredient. This kind of ingredient found in most over-the-counter nail fungus treatments sold in the market are very effective and works fast. They are available in lotion or cream and are applied directly to nail affected. One of the most trusted and popular example for this category is Lamisil.
Miconazole nitrate, a chemical compound, is composed of imidazole and benzyl alcohol, sorbitan sesquioleate, isobutene, cocamide, and tocopherol. For this type category, be sure that the solution is shaken well. Apply it using a dropper two times a day until the healing process is complete.
This category is also used for the prevention of jock itch scalding, athlete’s foot, and ringworm. It is for external use only and not taken orally. It is also contraindicated for children below 2 years old and for pregnant or lactating women. Cotrimazole on the other hand may be purchased in lotion or cream which is used once a day in smaller amounts
As a final note, always remember that we are you unique from individuals. If a type of over-the-counter nail fungus treatment has treated your friend, don’t assume that it will also cure you completely.
At his wesite, ToeNailsFungus.net, Art Fedrohr writes more about toenail fungus home remedies and Yellow Toenails.
