The medical term for nail fungus looks super scary, even though the condition is common and usually not dangerous: onychomycosis. There are now many possible treatments for nail fungus, though most of those that have been validated in studies are still available only by prescription.
One of the most recent prescription drugs for toenail fungus is Jublia (efinaconazole). It is being heavily advertised. We have written previously about the seemingly lackluster cure rate that can be attributed to this pricey drug.
One reader had success and wanted to share it:
Taking Jublia for Toenail Fungus:
Q. Jublia has worked well for me. In three years, I tried two different oral medications and some topical treatments that helped a little, but did not knock out the toenail fungus on my big toe.
I was resigned to the fact I would have to live with an ugly nail and never have a pedicure again. But I started taking Jublia last fall, and my toe is now nearly normal. There is no sign of fungus on my new nail growth, and I can wear sandals again!
It took six bottles to work this magic, and insurance covered it until the last refill. Now I need to pay $40 copay for each refill.
A. Jublia (efinaconazole) was approved to treat nail fungus in 2014. This prescription medicine is applied to the toenail daily.
In the clinical trials, 15 to 18 percent of people who used Jublia for 48 weeks had a complete cure of their toenail fungus. It sounds like you might be in that group.
Jublia Fights Nail Fungus…at a Steep Price
You were fortunate to get your insurance company to pay for your Jublia prescription. Not everyone is so fortunate:
Bob relates this experience:
“It’s unbelievable how much Jublia costs. Where do these companies get off charging this much? I thought an 8ml bottle was supposed to last 48 weeks but its only going to last me 6 weeks and Walgreens told me it was $1,000! And my insurance doesn’t cover it, insurance I am paying $650 a month for! Unreal.”
Anyone who would like to read more about Jublia may find this link of interest.
Other people may prefer to use home remedies such as soaking the affected toes in a solution of one part vinegar to two parts water or swabbing them daily with tea tree oil or hydrogen peroxide. You can learn more about home remedies to knock out toenail fungus in our Guide to Hair and Nail Care.
