Oral antifungal medications are typically more effective and are prescribed for severe or widespread infections. These medications work by targeting the fungus systemically and require several months of treatment. Topical treatments, such as antifungal nail lacquers or creams, are applied directly to the affected nails and are more suitable for mild or localized infections. It is important to follow the prescribed treatment regimen consistently to achieve successful outcomes. In some cases, a combination of oral and topical treatments may be recommended. Consulting a dermatologist can help determine the most appropriate treatment approach for onychomycosis.