STRIDE’s Combination Protocol vs. Single-Drug Regimens

Choosing the best treatment for toenail fungus is not simply a matter of selecting one antifungal medicine. Toenail fungus can be difficult to treat because the infection may persist within and beneath the nail, where topical treatment can be challenging.

A single-drug regimen may use either an oral antifungal medicine option or a topical treatment. Oral antifungals, such as terbinafine or fluconazole when clinically appropriate, work systemically and reach the infected nail through the bloodstream. Topical treatments are applied directly to the nail and may be useful when oral medication is not appropriate or preferred.

How STRIDE’s Combination Protocol Works

STRIDE DUO™ uses combination therapy for toenail fungus by pairing a prescription oral antifungal with STRIDE ClearNail Renewal™. This creates STRIDE's top-down + bottom-up approach: the oral medication works from within, while the topical solution is applied directly to the affected nail.

ClearNail Renewal™ is formulated with ingredients including urea, lactic acid, terbinafine, and DMSO to support topical delivery through the nail. The oral component and topical component therefore serve different roles within the overall treatment protocol. ClearNail Renewal™ is a compounded topical formulation that includes urea, lactic acid, terbinafine, and DMSO. The topical and oral components serve different roles within the overall STRIDE DUO™ protocol.

Combination Therapy vs. a Single Drug

Combination treatment is not automatically the right choice for every patient. A topical-only plan may suit people who cannot take or prefer to avoid systemic medication, while an oral-only plan may be selected based on clinical assessment and individual circumstances. Combination treatment is not automatically the right choice for every patient, and superiority over a single-drug regimen should not be assumed for every case. A topical-only plan may suit people who cannot take or prefer to avoid systemic medication, while an oral-only plan may be selected based on clinical assessment and individual circumstances.

The most appropriate plan depends on factors such as nail involvement, infection severity, medical history, and treatment preferences. A licensed clinician can determine whether combination therapy or a single-drug regimen is more appropriate for your situation.