AboutBarbara Judge Expertise Outpatient pharmacy and general health. I have recently completed a Pharmceutical Care Certificate Program offered by Purdue University (Spring 1999 completion). I have personal experience dealing with terminally ill persons and their needs, as well as their families` needs. I graduated in 1984 from Pharmacy School and have been a Licensed Pharmacist since then. I have 18 years retail pharmacy experience. Prior to my pharmacy training I have 3 years hospital experience as a Nurse`s Aide.
Question I get my nails manicured regularly. when I went in about four weeks ago the manicurist told me that I have nail fungus and suggested I buy the nail fungus killer the salon sold and told me to use it for about 3-6 months. They are drops. It just looks as if there is a space that is progressively going to the base of my nail bed. It isn't over the complete nail, but I am worried. I have never in all my years of getting my nails done (acrylic) had a fungus. I was reading online about Leucatin, but is there anything I can do immediately until I can get into a doctor in the area? I don't want that thick yellow finger nail and I am afraid it will lead to that. What do you suggest over the counter that actually works?
Answer Unfortunately nail fungus is one of the most difficult conditions to treat. Even with prescription products it takes 6 months of continuous therapy, both topical and oral, to treat the problem. Since nails are one of slowest growing tissues on the body, they are also one of the slowest tissues to cure. You must replace diseased tissue with healthy tissue as it grows out. Over the counter you may use Lamisil which may help some until you can get to a doctor, but if you do have a nail fungus it will probably require more treatment than just over the counter products.
Leucatin is a homeopathic treatment. Homeopathic treatments use such weak dilutions that you are essentially applying water to the nails, often very expensive water. You would be better served to save your money and wait until you can see a doctor.
