Terbinafine

Terbinafine — Uses and Benefits

Terbinafine is used to treat fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Fungal infections of the nails (onychomycosis)
• Ringworm infections of the skin (tinea infections such as tinea corporis, tinea cruris, tinea pedis)
• Fungal infections of the scalp
• Athlete's foot and jock itch

HOW IT WORKS

• It stops fungi from making a substance called ergosterol, which is needed for their cell walls
• Without this substance, the fungal cells become weak and die
• This helps clear the infection and relieve symptoms like itching, redness, and scaling

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not work against bacterial infections
• It is not used for viral infections such as cold sores or warts
• It is not effective against yeast infections like vaginal candidiasis (different antifungals are used for these)

How to Use Terbinafine

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Tablets are usually taken once a day, with or without food, as prescribed by your doctor
• Swallow the tablet with a glass of water; do not crush unless advised
• For creams or gels, wash and dry the affected area before applying a thin layer
• Continue the treatment for the full duration advised by your doctor, even if symptoms improve early
• Do not stop early, as the infection may come back

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep tablets and creams out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack
• Keep the cap of the tube or bottle tightly closed after use

Terbinafine — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Nausea or mild stomach upset
• Diarrhoea
• Loss of appetite
• Skin rash or itching (with cream/gel use)

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Taste disturbance
• Mild abdominal pain
• Joint or muscle pain
• Dizziness

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent nausea (signs of liver problems)
• Severe skin reactions such as blistering, peeling, or widespread rash
• Swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing (allergic reaction)
• Unusual tiredness, fever, or sore throat (possible blood cell changes)
• Loss of taste or smell that does not improve

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Terbinafine — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India. Do not self-medicate, especially for tablet form.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to terbinafine or any of its ingredients
• Have severe active liver disease (for oral tablets)
• Have severe kidney disease, unless advised otherwise by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any existing liver or kidney problems
• Have a history of psoriasis, as it may worsen
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Consume alcohol regularly
• Are taking other medicines, including over-the-counter products

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Certain antidepressants (like tricyclics or SSRIs)
• Beta-blockers used for heart conditions
• Rifampicin and cimetidine
• Certain medicines for irregular heartbeat

Always share your full medicine list with your doctor before starting treatment.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I use terbinafine cream for face fungal infections?

Use it only on areas advised by your doctor, as facial skin can be sensitive; consult before applying.

How long does it take to see improvement in nail infections?

Nail infections often take several months to clear as new nail grows out; continue treatment as prescribed.

Can I drink alcohol while taking terbinafine tablets?

• It is best to avoid or limit alcohol, as both alcohol and this medicine can affect the liver.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.