Fungal nail infection treatment, prescription-strength antifungals that reach the nail bed

What is a fungal nail infection?

A fungal nail infection (onychomycosis) happens when a fungus — typically a dermatophyte — gets into the nail through a small crack or break. Over time it causes the nail to become thickened, discoloured (yellow, brown or white), brittle and sometimes slightly separated from the nail bed. It most commonly affects toenails, though fingernails can be affected too.

The infection spreads slowly and is often not painful, which means many people put treatment off. But untreated infections tend to worsen and can spread to other nails or to the surrounding skin. Early treatment gives the best results.

What causes fungal nail infections?

The dermatophyte fungi that cause most nail infections thrive in warm, damp environments — making communal changing rooms, swimming pools and enclosed footwear contributing factors. People with diabetes, circulatory problems, a weakened immune system, or a history of athlete's foot are more susceptible. Nails that have suffered trauma — from ill-fitting shoes, for example — are more vulnerable too.

How are fungal nail infections treated?

Treatment typically takes months because nails grow slowly. The two main prescription approaches are a medicated nail lacquer applied directly to the nail surface, or an oral antifungal tablet taken daily. Nail lacquers are applied regularly over several months and work by penetrating the nail to reach the infection; oral tablets act systemically and tend to work faster and more completely for severe infections, but they are not suitable for everyone. A combined approach is sometimes recommended.

Which is right for you depends on how many nails are affected, the severity, your general health and any other medicines you take. The prescriber confirms this inside the consultation. We do not list specific medicine names on this page.

Treating fungal nail infections with NewGen

NewGen Pharmacy is a GPhC-registered community pharmacy at 245 High Street, Stratford. Our online consultation lets a UK prescriber assess your nail infection and recommend the right antifungal — lacquer, tablet or both. Treatment is dispensed and delivered to your door in plain packaging, or you can collect from our Stratford branch. If you also have a fungal skin infection in the area, see our fungal skin infections page — both can often be treated at the same time.

When to see your GP instead

See your GP if you have diabetes or poor circulation and a nail infection, as these need closer monitoring. Also see your GP if the nail is painful, if there are signs of bacterial infection (redness, swelling, pus), if your immune system is suppressed, or if you have liver disease — oral antifungals in particular need careful consideration in these situations. If we cannot safely manage your case online, we will say so and point you to the right care.