fluconazole for nail fungus review

8 months ago 37
Nature

Fluconazole is a fungistatic triazole with an antifungal spectrum that is largely limited to Candida species and some dermatophytes

. It has been used in the treatment of onychomycosis, which is a fungal infection of the nail, and has shown promising results

. A study involving patients with fingernail onychomycosis found that fluconazole, taken at a dosage of 450 mg once weekly for three months, demonstrated positive outcomes. The study showed "less than 25 percent of the nail still affected" rates of 72% to 89% compared to 3% for the placebo group

. Another study on the use of fluconazole in toenail fungal infections showed mycologic eradication rates of 47% to 62% at the end of therapy, with clinical success (completely healthy nail) achieved in 28% to 36% of fluconazole- treated patients

. However, the FDA has not yet approved fluconazole for the treatment of onychomycosis

. Therefore, it is essential to consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Treatment options may include topical antifungals, systemic medications like fluconazole, griseofulvin, itraconazole, or terbinafine, and, in severe cases, nail removal

. In terms of ingredients or materials, fluconazole is a synthetic chemical compound that belongs to the triazole class of antifungal agents

. It is available in various forms, such as oral pills, topical gels, and nail lacquers, for the treatment of nail fungal infections