Kerydin for Toenail Fungus: Is It the Right Treatment?

Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide.

It can cause discomfort, embarrassment, and in severe cases, permanent damage to the nails. Thankfully, there are treatments available to help combat this condition.

One such treatment is Kerydin (tavaborole), a topical antifungal medication that has gained attention for its effectiveness in treating toenail fungus.

If you’re struggling with toenail fungus and looking for a solution, Kerydin may be the answer. In this article, we’ll dive into how Kerydin works, how to use it, and its benefits for toenail fungus treatment.

What is Kerydin?

Kerydin is a prescription medication specifically designed to treat toenail fungus (onychomycosis).

Unlike oral antifungal medications, Kerydin is applied directly to the affected nail, making it a convenient and targeted treatment option.

It contains tavaborole, an active ingredient that helps to inhibit the growth of the fungus by interfering with its ability to produce proteins necessary for its survival.

Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Kerydin is effective in treating toenail fungus in clinical trials, offering hope for individuals who want to restore the health of their nails.

How Does Kerydin Work?

Kerydin works by targeting the root cause of toenail fungus (onychomycosis) the fungal infection itself.

The active ingredient in Kerydin, tavaborole, is a topical antifungal medication that works directly on the infected nail. Here’s how it works in detail:

Mechanism of Action

Penetration of the Nail

• When Kerydin is applied to the toenail, it penetrates the nail plate, which acts as a barrier. Tavaborole is absorbed through the nail and reaches the site of infection, which is often deep beneath the surface.

Inhibition of Fungal Growth

• Tavaborole targets a critical fungal enzyme called aminoacyl tRNA synthetase. This enzyme is essential for the production of proteins in the fungus, which are necessary for its growth and survival. By inhibiting this enzyme, tavaborole effectively prevents the fungus from multiplying and spreading.

Elimination of the Infection

• With the fungus unable to produce essential proteins, it can no longer thrive or reproduce. Over time, the infection is cleared, and the toenail starts to heal.

Restoration of Nail Health

• As the fungal infection clears, new, healthy nail tissue begins to grow in place of the infected nail. This process takes several months, as toenails grow slowly, but with consistent use of Kerydin, the nail should eventually regrow clear and healthy.

Benefits of Using Kerydin for Toenail Fungus

• Targeted Treatment: Kerydin is applied directly to the nail, so it works precisely where it’s needed, minimizing the risk of side effects compared to oral antifungal medications. This makes it a safer option for people who prefer to avoid systemic treatments.

• Effective: Clinical studies have shown that Kerydin can significantly improve the appearance of infected toenails. With consistent use, many users experience healthier nails as the fungus clears up.

• Convenient: Kerydin comes in a simple, easy-to-use brush-on applicator. This allows for precise application on the affected nail, making it a convenient treatment option for those who have difficulty using creams or lotions on their feet.

• Low Risk of Side Effects: Since Kerydin is topical, it typically has fewer side effects compared to oral antifungal medications. The most common side effects reported are mild, including irritation at the site of application, which usually subsides over time.

• No Systemic Absorption: Because Kerydin is applied only to the toenail, the medication is not absorbed into the bloodstream, reducing the risk of drug interactions or systemic side effects.

How to Use Kerydin for Toenail Fungus?

Using Kerydin correctly is essential for its effectiveness. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply Kerydin for toenail fungus

• Clean the affected nail: Wash and dry the toenail thoroughly before application. This ensures that the medication can penetrate the nail plate and reach the fungal infection.

• Apply the medication: Using the brush applicator provided with Kerydin, apply a thin layer of the medication to the affected nail. Be sure to cover the entire surface of the nail, including the edges and under the tip if possible.

• Let it dry: Allow the medication to dry completely before putting on socks or shoes. It typically takes only a few minutes for Kerydin to dry.

• Repeat daily: Apply Kerydin once a day for the full duration of your treatment plan. It’s essential to continue using it as directed, even if you start seeing improvements, to ensure the infection is completely treated.

• Trim nails regularly: Keep your toenails trimmed and clean to help prevent reinfection and promote healthy nail growth.

How Long Does It Take for Kerydin to Work?

While Kerydin can begin to show noticeable results after a few weeks of consistent use, it’s important to understand that toenail fungus treatment takes time.

Toenails grow slowly, and it can take several months for the infection to clear completely and for the nails to grow back healthy.

Most people will need to use Kerydin for 6 to 12 months to see optimal results. Patience and adherence to the treatment plan are key to success.

Conclusion

Kerydin is a highly effective and convenient treatment option for toenail fungus. By directly targeting the fungus with its active ingredient, tavaborole, it can help you achieve healthier nails without the need for oral medications.

If you’re dealing with the discomfort and embarrassment of toenail fungus, Kerydin may be the solution you need.

Remember, treating toenail fungus takes time, so be patient and consistent with your treatment. With the right care and treatment, you can enjoy healthy, fungus-free nails once again!

If you have any more questions about toenail fungus or Kerydin, don’t hesitate to reach out to a medical professional who can guide you toward the best treatment plan for your needs.