Terbinafine

Terbinafine

Uses

Terbinafine is a antifungal medication primarily used to treat fingernail and toenail infections.

Terbinafine (Trade name: Lamisil) is used to treat fungal infections, particularly dermatophytes (tinea infections -- fungal infections of the toenail and fingernail). It can also be used to treat jock itch (Tinea cruris), athlete's foot (Tinea pedis) and other types of ringworm (Tinea corporis). It works by stopping the growth of fungi.

Dosing

Because it's difficult to apply a topical medication deep under the cuticles of fingernails and toenails, Terbinafine typically comes in capsule form taken by mouth. It is usually taken once a day for 6 weeks for fingernail fungus and once a day for 12 weeks for toenail fungus. The fungus may not go away until several month after you've finished taking Terbinafine.

Side Effects

Terbinafine is a fairly safe drug. Side effects are rare and mild, but may include nausea, feeling of fullness, diarrhea, abdominal pain, headache, dizziness, painful muscles and joints, taste disturbance, loss of appetite, liver disease, reduced white blood cell count, or allergic skin rash.

Notes of Precaution

Terbinafine does not typically interact with other medications.

You should not take Terbinafine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Notify your doctor if you are allergic to Terbinafine or any other medications.

Notify your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney or liver disease, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Terbinafine should be stored at room temperature and be kept out of the reach of children.