
Terbinafine | Ibuprofen | DMSO Nail Solution
This topical solution combines terbinafine, ibuprofen, and DMSO to help treat fungal nail infections (onychomycosis). Terbinafine kills the fungus, ibuprofen eases pain and swelling, and DMSO helps the medicine soak deeper into the nail. Your healthcare provider may choose this compounded blend when standard treatments have not worked or when added pain relief is needed.
Requires a valid prescription from your provider. Not sure if it's right for you? Ask a pharmacist.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Compounded products are not FDA-approved and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary. This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice — always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment.
Clinical information
Medication information for patients and providers.
Apply to affected nail(s) at bedtime. If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next application. Do not apply two doses at the same time. Your healthcare provider will decide how long you should use this medication.
Terbinafine blocks an enzyme the fungus needs to build its cell wall, so the fungus weakens and dies. Ibuprofen lowers local chemicals that cause pain and swelling. DMSO carries the other ingredients through the hard nail plate and surrounding skin. Most people notice less pain and some clearing of the nail in 4–8 weeks, but full nail regrowth can take 6–12 months.
Do not use if you are allergic to terbinafine, ibuprofen, DMSO, or any NSAID (such as aspirin or naproxen). Do not use on broken skin, open wounds, or mucous membranes. Do not use if you are pregnant in the third trimester, as ibuprofen may harm the unborn baby. Avoid use in children under 12 unless directed by a pediatric specialist. People with severe liver disease, kidney disease, or bleeding disorders should consult their provider before use.
Because this is a topical product, interactions are less common, but some can still occur. Using other NSAID medicines (oral ibuprofen, naproxen) or blood thinners like warfarin may raise bleeding risk if significant skin absorption occurs; monitor for bruising. Avoid putting other medicated creams or nail lacquers on the same area at the same time unless your provider approves. Alcohol can increase the chance of stomach irritation if ibuprofen absorbs into the bloodstream, so limit drinking while using this product. Tell your provider about all medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements you take.
Very common (more than 1 in 10 people): mild burning or stinging at the application site, nail dryness. Common (1–10 in 100 people): redness, itching, peeling skin around the nail, mild garlic-like odor from DMSO. Uncommon (1–10 in 1,000 people): skin blistering, swelling, headache. Rare but serious: allergic reaction with rash, hives, or swelling of lips/face; severe skin irritation spreading beyond the treated area. Most local reactions improve within a few minutes to hours after application; stop use and contact your provider if severe or persistent.
Store at room temperature (68-77°F, 20-25°C) in a tightly closed amber container. Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flame—DMSO is flammable. Protect from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Discard any unused solution 90 days after first opening, or sooner if it changes color or develops an unusual smell. Use a pharmacy take-back program or mix unused product with coffee grounds before placing in household trash.
Frequently asked questions.
Wash and dry the affected nails first. Use the provided brush or a clean cotton swab to coat the whole nail, the cuticle area, and a small rim of surrounding skin. Let it air-dry before putting on socks or shoes.
Fungi grow slowly under the nail, and nails grow slowly too. You may see less pain and some clearing in 1–2 months, but full nail replacement can take 6–12 months. Keep using the medicine as directed, even if you do not see quick changes.
Avoid regular nail polish during treatment because it can block the medicine from soaking in. If you must use polish for a short event, remove it completely and restart the medication the next day.
Mild redness or dryness is common and usually goes away. If the area becomes very sore, swollen, or blisters, stop using the medication and call your healthcare provider.
Most people can still take occasional oral ibuprofen, but doing so may raise the risk of stomach upset or bleeding. Check with your provider before combining oral NSAIDs with this product, especially if you take blood thinners or have stomach problems.
No. Store it at normal room temperature away from heat and sunlight. Keep the cap tightly closed to prevent evaporation of the DMSO.
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