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A 45-year-old member asked:

For a toe nail fungus, which over-the-counter cream is more effective, lamisil (terbinafine) or lotrimin?

4 doctor answers14 doctors weighed in
Dr. Jeffrey Kass
Podiatry 30 years experience
I don't find: Any topicals to be very effective on toe nail fungus. Oral Lamisil (terbinafine) is much more effective.
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Dr. Joseph Newman
Podiatry 34 years experience
Neither: Unless you are catching an infection of the nail very early while it is superficial, neither cream has much chance at success. Fungal nail infections can involve the full thickness of the nail and nail bed, so these creams don't address the whole infection. Your podiatrist can speak of prescription medications, which have a much better track record.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Brandon Macy
Podiatry 43 years experience
Creams can't penetrate the nail plate and are therefore largely ineffective.
Nov 15, 2012
Dr. Arnold Beresh
Podiatry 43 years experience
Neither: Topical creams are not real useful for toenail fungus.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Jeffrey Bowman
40 years experience
Fungus: Neither of them a good for nail fungus. Dark lines may be something more serious. Oral meds are fairly effective but run risk of liver damage. Laser has shown to be quite effective.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Apr 1, 2020

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