Brand
name:
TERBINAFINE
Pronounced: LAM-ih-sill
Generic name: Terbinafine hydrochloride
Why is TERBINAFINE prescribed?
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 TERBINAFINE
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 TERBINAFINE without prescriptions?
Before applying 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 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.
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 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 TERBINAFINE not be prescribed?
Do not use TERBINAFINE if it has ever given you an allergic reaction.
Special warnings about TERBINAFINE
Changes in the lens and retina of the eye have been reported in people
taking TERBINAFINE tablets. If you notice any changes in your vision while
taking the tablets, notify your doctor.
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. 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 TERBINAFINE.
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 TERBINAFINE tablets,
tell your doctor. TERBINAFINE may decrease your ability to fight infection.
Do not use 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.
TERBINAFINE has not been tested for safety in children.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking TERBINAFINE
If 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 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 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.
TERBINAFINE from the tablets does appear in breast milk, so the drug is
not recommended while breastfeeding. Do not apply TERBINAFINE cream or
solution to the breast.
Recommended dosage for TERBINAFINE
TABLETS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you
suspect an overdose with TERBINAFINE tablets, seek medical treatment immediately.
* Symptoms of overdose with TERBINAFINE tablets may include:
Abdominal pain, dizziness, frequent urination, headache, nausea, rash, vomiting
