Treatment options

Treatment options may vary depending on the type and severity of the infection. Treatment can include:

• Topical antifungals, such as amorolfine 5% nail lacquer, could be recommended if there is early, limited or superficial nail infection that does not extend down to the nail bed. Amorolfine 5% nail lacquer is to be applied once or twice weekly to the affected nail(s) after gently filing the nail surface. Treatment is to be continued for six months for fingernails and nine to 12 months for toenails.⁵

If initial measures are not successful or appropriate, management with oral antifungals such as terbinafine or itraconazole may be indicated. A GP would take nail clippings to confirm the infection and assess if the person is suitable for either of these treatments.¹