How harmful are tablets against nail fungus?
Apart from their effectiveness against a specific disease, pharmaceutical agents unfortunately also have side effects and contraindications in common. Some drugs are better tolerated, others worse. However, it is inappropriate to speak of harmfulness in this context.
When used properly, tablets against nail fungus are not harmful. Side effects and, in rare cases, complications can, however, occur and cannot be foreseen even when used correctly, taking into account all contraindications. A possible complication or serious side effect common to all tablets against nail fungus is damage to the liver function.
In the most severe cases this can be accompanied by very severe damage. However, it must be emphasized that this is only very rarely the case. Therefore, these tablets should not be taken if the liver has been damaged. Another dangerous but very rare complication is a severe allergic reaction, which can be accompanied by skin damage or shortness of breath. In some cases, tablets against nail fungus can lead to changes in the blood count, but these are also rare and reversible.
Are the tablets available over the counter or are they prescription only?
Antimycotic agents (active ingredients against fungi) are available partly without a prescription, partly only on presentation of a prescription. However, the following rule applies to antimycotic tablets for oral administration: They are always available only on prescription. Caution is advised with some supposedly over-the-counter products on the Internet.
Serious mail-order pharmacies do not offer antimycotic tablets without a prescription. The situation is often different with antimycotic ointments, creams or nail polishes. These are quite also available without prescription.
Antimycotics, like other active ingredients, are drugs that achieve good effects, but can also have side effects and may not be used for some pre-existing conditions. Furthermore, not every antimycotic tablet is effective against every fungus. Therefore, it is necessary that first of all a physician can assess which drug is likely to be effective and well tolerated by the individual patient.