Terbinafine 250mg

Terbinafine 250mg — Uses and Benefits

Terbinafine 250mg is used to treat fungal infections affecting the skin, scalp and nails.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Fungal infections of the nails (onychomycosis)
• Ringworm infections of the skin (tinea corporis, tinea cruris)
• Fungal infections of the feet (tinea pedis/athlete's foot)
• Fungal infections of the scalp (tinea capitis) in some cases

HOW IT WORKS

• Terbinafine stops the fungus from making a substance it needs to build its cell wall
• This weakens and kills the fungal cells over time
• It usually needs to be taken for several weeks to months for nail infections to clear completely

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not used for bacterial infections
• It is not used for viral infections such as cold sores or warts
• It is not effective against yeast infections like vaginal thrush unless specifically prescribed for that purpose
• It should not be used for general itching without a confirmed fungal cause

How to Use Terbinafine 250mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• It can be taken with or without food, though food may help reduce stomach upset
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water
• Continue the full course even if your symptoms improve early, as fungal infections need prolonged treatment
• Do not stop the medicine on your own without talking to your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• 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 the tablets in their original packaging
• Keep out of reach and sight of children
• Do not use the medicine after the expiry date printed on the pack

Terbinafine 250mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Stomach upset or discomfort
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Mild diarrhoea
• Skin rash

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Taste disturbance or loss of taste
• Joint or muscle pain
• Tiredness
• Dizziness

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or pale stools (signs of liver problems)
• Severe skin rash, blistering, or peeling skin
• Swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat, or difficulty breathing (allergic reaction)
• Unexplained persistent nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
• Unusual tiredness or weakness with pale skin (possible blood disorder)
• Severe dizziness or fainting

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

Terbinafine 250mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to terbinafine or any of its ingredients
• Have severe liver disease
• Have severe kidney disease, unless specifically advised by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

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

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Certain antidepressants (like tricyclics and SSRIs)
• Drugs affecting heart rhythm
• Rifampicin and other medicines that affect liver enzymes
• Cimetidine
• Oral contraceptives (rare reports of reduced effectiveness)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop the medicine once my symptoms improve?

No, you should complete the full course as prescribed, as stopping early can cause the infection to return.

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid or limit alcohol as it may increase the risk of liver-related side effects; ask your doctor.

How long does it take to see improvement?

• Nail infections can take several months to fully clear, while skin infections usually improve faster, but always follow your doctor's advice on duration.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.