Amorolfine — topical nail antifungal for onychomycosis

If you have a thick, discolored toenail or fingernail, amorolfine is one of the topical options doctors may suggest. It comes as a 5% nail lacquer that targets fungi in and under the nail plate. Because nails grow slowly, treatment takes time — expect weeks to months before you see real improvement.

How amorolfine works and when to use it

Amorolfine is a morpholine derivative that disrupts fungal cell membrane production, which weakens and kills the fungus. It’s best for mild to moderate onychomycosis that affects mostly the nail plate, not the surrounding skin. If the infection covers a large part of the nail, or if you have diabetes, poor circulation, or a weak immune system, a doctor may prefer oral treatment instead.

How to use amorolfine — practical steps

Follow these simple steps to get the most from amorolfine lacquer:

• Trim and file the infected nail to remove loose, thick material. This helps the medicine reach deeper layers.
• Clean the nail and let it dry. Wipe away dust so the lacquer sticks well.
• Apply a thin coat of amorolfine once a week, or follow the product instructions. Don’t flood the nail — a thin layer is enough.
• Let it dry completely before putting on socks or shoes.
• Some products advise removing the old lacquer every few weeks with a nail file or solvent before reapplying. Check the leaflet for details.

Treatment length: expect several months. Fingernails often clear faster than toenails. For toenails, many people need 6–12 months of consistent use until a healthy nail grows out.

If you miss a weekly dose, don’t double up — just apply at the next scheduled time. Keep using the lacquer until you have a healthy-looking nail or your doctor tells you to stop.

What to expect and safety tips

Side effects are usually local: mild irritation, redness, or temporary nail discoloration. Systemic absorption is very low, so drug interactions are rare with topical amorolfine. Still, tell your doctor if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other antifungal medicines. If the nail becomes painful, the infection spreads, or you see no improvement after a few months, get medical advice.

Combining strategies often helps: trimming and filing regularly, using topical lacquer correctly, and in some cases adding oral antifungals under doctor supervision. Other options include ciclopirox lacquer, prescription topical agents like efinaconazole, or procedures such as mechanical debridement or laser therapy. Your choice should match the severity of the infection and your overall health.

Amorolfine works, but it needs patience and proper application. If you’re unsure whether it’s right for you, talk to a pharmacist or a doctor. For more practical guides and treatment comparisons, check MedixRX Pharmaceutical Guide articles on nail fungus and antifungal options.