What is Amorolfine?

Amorolfine is a topical antifungal medicine used to treat fungal nail infections (onychomycosis). It is most commonly available as a 5% medicated nail lacquer, which is applied directly to the affected nail.

Amorolfine is widely used in UK pharmacies as a first-line treatment for mild fungal nail infections, particularly when the infection has not spread to the nail root. 

How does Amorolfine work? 

Amorolfine works by targeting the fungal cell membrane, which is essential for the fungus to survive.

Dual mechanism of action:

• Blocks ergosterol production
  Amorolfine inhibits enzymes needed to produce ergosterol, a key component of fungal cell membranes.
• Damages the fungal cell structure
  This causes the membrane to become unstable, leading to leakage and death of the fungal cells.

Fungicidal and fungistatic effects: 

• Fungicidal – kills the fungus
• Fungistatic – prevents further growth

This combination helps stop the infection from spreading while gradually clearing it.

What is Amorolfine Used For?

Primary use:
Treatment of fungal nail infections affecting fingernails or toenails

Suitable for:

• Mild to moderate infections
• Infection affecting less than 50% of the nail
• Up to 1–2 nails affected
• Cases where the nail root (matrix) is not involved

Not suitable for:

• Severe or widespread infections
• Multiple nails affected
• Infection involving the nail root

In these cases, oral antifungal treatments may be required.