Current and emerging options in the treatment of onychomycosis

Currently approved options for the treatment of onychomycosis include systemic therapy (the antifungal agents fluconazole, itraconazole, and terbinafine), topical agents (ciclopirox, which has been available since 1996, efinaconazole, currently pending approval), and laser systems. Phase III studies on another topical, tavaborole, have been completed and this medication also shows promise. Mechanical modalities are sometimes used but are seldom necessary. Recurrence of infection is common; the risk for recurrence may be reduced by adherence to preventive measures, especially avoiding (if possible) or promptly treating tinea pedis infections.