Indications
Tavaborole topical solution is used to treat fungal infection of the toenails (onychomycosis), usually caused by the fungi Trichophyton rubrum or Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Infected nails often become thick, yellow or white, crumbly and lifted from the nail bed. It is for use on the toenails only.
How It Works
Tavaborole is a boron-containing antifungal. The liquid soaks through the hard nail plate and blocks an enzyme (leucyl-tRNA synthetase) that the fungus needs to make its proteins. Without this enzyme the fungus cannot grow, so new nail can gradually grow out clear.
Dosage and Administration
Adults: apply once daily to the entire affected toenail, including the skin folds around it, the skin under the free edge and the underside of the nail tip. The usual course is 48 weeks, because healthy nail grows out slowly. Make sure feet are clean and dry first, let the solution dry fully, and wash your hands after use. You do not need to file the nail beforehand. Use as directed by your doctor.
Interactions
Very little of the medicine reaches the blood, so interactions with medicines taken by mouth are unlikely. Avoid putting nail polish, other nail products or other skin medicines on the same nail during treatment unless your doctor agrees.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to tavaborole or any ingredient of the solution.
Side Effects
- Ingrown toenail
- Redness, peeling, itching or irritation of the skin around the nail
- Skin rash or inflammation (dermatitis) where it is applied
Get urgent medical help if you develop swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe spreading rash, or if the toe becomes very painful, hot and swollen.
Pregnancy and Lactation
There is little information on use in pregnancy or breastfeeding, although very little is absorbed through the nail. Use only if your doctor advises it.
Precautions and Warnings
For external use on toenails only. Keep away from the eyes, mouth and vagina. Results take many months, so keep using it daily even if you see no change at first. People with diabetes or poor circulation should have foot problems checked by a doctor. The solution is not studied in children under 6 years.
Overdose
Applying more than directed will not work faster and may irritate the skin. If swallowed, rinse the mouth and seek medical advice.
Therapeutic Class
Topical antifungal agent (oxaborole antifungal).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and heat, with the cap tightly closed, out of the reach of children. Discard any solution left 3 months after opening if the pack says so.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.