Terbinafine 500mg

Terbinafine 500mg — Uses and Benefits

Terbinafine 500mg is used to treat fungal infections affecting the skin, nails and scalp.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Ringworm infections of the body, groin and feet
• Fungal infection of the nails (onychomycosis)
• Fungal infection of the scalp
• Other skin infections caused by dermatophyte fungi

HOW IT WORKS

• It blocks an enzyme the fungus needs to build its cell membrane
• This weakens and eventually kills the fungal cells
• It also has some action against certain yeasts, though it is mainly used for dermatophyte infections

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not used for bacterial or viral infections
• It is not a treatment for all types of yeast infections such as vaginal thrush
• It should not be used for infections it has not been prescribed for without medical advice
• It is not a cosmetic skin-lightening or general skin care product

How to Use Terbinafine 500mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• Can be taken with or without food, unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Swallow the tablet with water; do not crush or chew unless instructed
• Complete the full course even if symptoms improve early, as fungal treatment often needs several weeks
• Do not stop the medicine on your own without consulting your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose 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 heat and sunlight
• Keep in a dry place, away from moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use beyond the expiry date printed on the pack

Terbinafine 500mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

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

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Taste disturbance
• Skin rash or itching
• Joint or muscle pain
• Tiredness

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine (signs of liver problems)
• Severe skin rash, blistering or peeling skin
• Swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing (allergic reaction)
• Unusual tiredness, weakness, or persistent nausea and vomiting
• Signs of low blood cell counts such as fever, sore throat or unusual bruising

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

Terbinafine 500mg — Safety Information and Precautions

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

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to terbinafine or any of its ingredients
• Have severe active liver disease
• Have severe kidney disease, unless your doctor adjusts the dose

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any history of liver or kidney problems
• Have psoriasis or lupus, as it may worsen these conditions
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Drink alcohol regularly
• Are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Certain antidepressants
• Drugs that affect liver enzymes, such as rifampicin or cimetidine
• Some heart rhythm medicines
• Oral contraceptives, as effectiveness may be affected
• Always inform your doctor of all medicines and supplements you take

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

It is best to avoid or limit alcohol as it can increase the risk of liver-related side effects.

How long does treatment usually last?

Duration varies depending on the type and site of infection and is decided by your doctor, ranging from a few weeks to a few months.

Will the infection come back after treatment?

• Fungal infections can recur, especially if the full course is not completed or hygiene measures are not followed, so finish the treatment as advised.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.