OK well I have heard many "remedies" cut your nail back and soak in 1part bleach and 2parts hot water, vicks vapor rub, the paint on anti-fungal ect ect. You have two real choices, the topical ( the stuff you put on the nail or skin) remedy only works if you get it under the nail, meaning clip it as far back as you can stand and apply said treatment however this doesnt always work or it may come back. The oral works much better, it attacks the fungus from the inside, killing it completely, it takes about 3 -6 months. You are concearned of the side effects, well honestly the fungus is not going to be detrmental to your health and you could live perfectly fine with it. So if you want it gone I would honestly recommend that you see your doctor and ask him/her to prescribe you the oral medication. Good luck :)