Brand
name:
Lamisil (Terbinafine)
Pronounced: LAM-ih-sill
Generic name: Terbinafine hydrochloride
Why is Lamisil (Terbinafine) prescribed?
Lamisil (Terbinafine) fights fungal infections. In tablet form, it's used for fungus
of the toenail or fingernail. The cream and the solution are used for
other fungal infections such as athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm.
The solution is also used to treat tinea versicolor, a fungal infection
that produces brown, tan, or white spots on the trunk of the body.
Most important fact about Lamisil (Terbinafine)
Lamisil (Terbinafine) does not produce instant results. You won't see the full effect
of the tablets for several months, until a healthy new nail has grown
out. The cream and solution also work gradually. It usually takes a
week for results to appear, and improvement often continues for 2 to
6 weeks after treatment has stopped. However, if you see no change
at all after a full week of applying the cream or solution, notify
your doctor. The problem may be other than fungal.
How should you take Lamisil (Terbinafine) without prescriptions?
Before applying Lamisil (Terbinafine) solution, clean and dry the infected area
thoroughly. Use enough solution to fully wet the entire area. When
using either the solution or the cream, do not cover the treated area
with dressings unless directed by your doctor.
Continue using Lamisil (Terbinafine) for the full amount of time your doctor prescribes,
even if your symptoms begin to improve.
If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next
dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule.
Do not take two doses at one time.
Storage instructions...
Store the tablets at room temperature, away from light in a tight
container. The cream and solution should be stored at room temperature,
and not refrigerated.
Lamisil (Terbinafine) side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Lamisil (Terbinafine).
Side effects of the cream and solution are uncommon. They include
burning or irritation, itching, dryness, peeling, and rash.
The tablets are a bit more likely to cause a reaction:
* Side effects of the tablets may include:
Diarrhea, headache, indigestion, rash
Why should Lamisil (Terbinafine) not be prescribed?
Do not use Lamisil (Terbinafine) if it has ever given you an allergic reaction.
Special warnings about Lamisil (Terbinafine)
Changes in the lens and retina of the eye have been reported in people
taking Lamisil (Terbinafine) tablets. If you notice any changes in your vision while
taking the tablets, notify your doctor.
Lamisil (Terbinafine) tablets have been known to cause rare cases of liver damage.
If you develop warning signs such as nausea, loss of appetite, or fatigue,
alert your doctor. Lamisil (Terbinafine) tablets are not recommended if you have
liver disease or kidney problems.
If you suffer from the autoimmune disorder lupus erythematosus, you
will not be able to take Lamisil (Terbinafine).
Lamisil (Terbinafine) tablets have also, in rare instances, caused very severe skin
reactions. If you develop a steadily worsening rash, stop taking the
tablets and call your doctor immediately.
If you develop another kind of infection while taking Lamisil (Terbinafine) tablets,
tell your doctor. Lamisil (Terbinafine) may decrease your ability to fight infection.
Do not use Lamisil (Terbinafine) cream or solution in the eye, mouth, nose, or vagina.
In case of accidental contact with the eyes, rinse them thoroughly
with running water and call your doctor if symptoms continue.
If you develop skin irritation, redness, itching, burning, blistering,
swelling, or oozing while using the cream or solution, notify your
doctor. Do not cover the treated area with dressings unless directed
by your doctor.
Lamisil (Terbinafine) has not been tested for safety in children.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Lamisil (Terbinafine)
If Lamisil (Terbinafine) is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either
could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important
to check with your doctor before combining Lamisil (Terbinafine) tablets with the
following:
Antidepressants such as Elavil, Nardil, Norpramin, Pamelor, Parnate,
Paxil, Prozac, Tofranil, and Zoloft
Cimetidine (Tagamet)
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)
Drugs classified as beta blockers such as the heart and blood pressure
medications Inderal, Sectral, and Tenormin
Rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The safety of Lamisil (Terbinafine) during pregnancy has not been conclusively proven.
Treatment with the tablets should not be started during pregnancy,
and the cream and solution should be used only if clearly needed.
Lamisil (Terbinafine) from the tablets does appear in breast milk, so the drug is
not recommended while breastfeeding. Do not apply Lamisil (Terbinafine) cream or
solution to the breast.
Recommended dosage for Lamisil (Terbinafine)
TABLETS
Overdosage Lamisil (Terbinafine)
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you
suspect an overdose with Lamisil (Terbinafine) tablets, seek medical treatment immediately.
