Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Terbinafine is prescribed for the treatment of specific types of fungal infections, such as those affecting the fingernail or toenail. The mechanism of action involves inhibition of fungal growth. Terbinafine belongs to the pharmacological class of antifungal agents.
Uses and Dosage
Terbinafine is available in both granule and tablet form for oral administration. Typically, terbinafine granules are ingested with a soft food once a day for six weeks. Terbinafine tablets are consumed once a day for six weeks for fingernail infections, and for twelve weeks for toenail infections, with or without food.
Follow the directions on your prescription label, and seek clarification from your doctor or pharmacist if there are any uncertainties. Take terbinafine exactly as prescribed and avoid taking more or less of it, or taking it more frequently than prescribed by your doctor.
To prepare a terbinafine granules dosage, empty the entire packet onto a spoonful of soft food such as pudding or mashed potatoes. Avoid sprinkling the granules onto fruit-based soft food like applesauce. If directed by your doctor to take two packets of terbinafine granules, the contents of both packets may be sprinkled onto one spoonful or onto separate spoonfuls of soft food.
Swallow the spoonful of granules and soft food without chewing.
The fungal infection may not be entirely eradicated until several months after completion of the Terbinafine treatment, as healthy nail regrowth takes time.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- diarrhea
- indigestion
- itching
- headache
- feeling sad, worthless, restless, or other changes in mood
- loss of energy or interest in daily activities
- changes in how you sleep
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- nausea
- loss of appetite
- extreme tiredness
- vomiting
- pain in the right upper part of the stomach
- dark urine
- pale stools
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- severe skin rash that keeps getting worse
- fever, sore throat, and other signs of infection
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, and eyes
- difficulty swallowing or breathing
- hoarseness
- swollen lymph glands
- peeling, blistering, or shedding skin
- hives
- itching
- red or scaly rash that may be sensitive to sunlight
- loss of skin color
- mouth sores
- sore throat, fever, chills, and other signs of infection
- chest pain
- unexplained bleeding or bruising
- blood in urine
- fast or irregular heartbeat
Caution
Prior to taking terbinafine, inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergic reactions you may have to the medication, or to any other substances. The product may include inactive components that can elicit allergic reactions or other adverse effects.
Before commencing use of this medication, ensure that your doctor or pharmacist is informed of your medical history, particularly if you have any immune system disorders, kidney or liver disease, or lupus.
The consumption of alcohol should be limited while using this medication. Frequent alcohol intake may heighten the risk of severe side effects.
This medication may increase your sensitivity to sunlight. Limit your exposure to sunlight and avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and protective clothing when you are outside. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience sunburn or skin redness/blistering.
During pregnancy, this medication should only be used if it is absolutely necessary. In most cases, treatment for fungal nail infections can be postponed until after delivery. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your physician.
This drug can pass into breast milk. Prior to breastfeeding, consult with your doctor.
Form and Strength
Lamisil is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Lamisil tablet:
- 250mg
-
terbinafine tablet:
- 250mg
FAQ
Is Lamisil the strongest oral antifungal?
Lamisil is the most effective oral drug and should be considered the first-choice in fungal nail infection.
How long does it take for Lamisil to work on fungus?
The cream, gel and spray usually start to work within a week, and the tablets can take between 2 weeks and a few months to work.
Resources
- https://evidence.nihr.ac.uk/alert/terbinafine-is-probably-first-choice-oral-drug-for-fungal-toenail-infection/#:~:text=These%20results%20support%20guideline%20recommendations,choice%20in%20fungal%20nail%20infection
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/terbinafine/#:~:text=The%20cream%2C%20gel%20and%20spray,a%20few%20months%20to%20work
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a699061.html
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/terbinafine-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20066265?p=1
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-12422/lamisil-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/terbinafine.html
