Question: I've tried all the natural and over-the-counter remedies for toenail fungus, but nothing works. Do you have any advice?

Dr. Hibberd's Answer:

Once in the nail tissue, fungal infection takes longer to clear than regular bacterial infections, but it can be easily cleared with persistence and patience.

The nail actually shelters the fungus from attack by your immune system. Various prescription medicines are available with once or twice a day regimens. Some may be taken daily for seven days a month, with most treatment periods lasting three to six months.

The kicker is that most of these medicines are expensive and often quite rough on the liver, so baseline and periodic blood testing of liver function is usually recommended. Alcohol and some medication/food combinations should be avoided.

There are various topical agents that have some effect, but only one, Penlac, has the blessing of the FDA. Prior to the availability of these medications, removal of the toenail in combination with prescription medications was the most efficient way to manage toenail fungal infection.

It is time for you to see a medical professional and stop wasting your time and money on the largely ineffective over-the-counter treatments.