Terbinafine
Molecule Description
Terbinafine is an antifungal used against fungal infections.
Uses of Terbinafine
- Terbinafine is an antifungal medicine used for fungal infections
- It is used to treat ringworm infections of the scalp, foot and nails
Contraindications of Terbinafine
When should one not use Terbinafine
- Allergic reaction to Terbinafine
- Liver disease
- Breastfeeding
Side effects of Terbinafine
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Nausea
- Itching
- Dark-colored urine
- Clay-colored stools
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach pain
- Weakness
- Headache
- Diarrhea
Precautions and Warnings of Terbinafine
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Terbinafine during pregnancy?
A:
Limited data were available about its safety in pregnancy. Doctor's discretion required.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Terbinafine while breastfeeding?
A:
Avoid application around the nipple area and ensure that the infant's skin does not come into direct contact with the areas of skin that have been treated. Only water-miscible cream, gel or liquid products should be applied on the breast; otherwise, the ointments might expose the infant to the high levels of mineral paraffin via licking. Oral consumption of the tablet is unsafe during breastfeeding.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Terbinafine?
A:
While taking the oral tablet, some people feel dizzy or giddy; in such a case, caution is advised while driving.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- Have Psoriasis
- Terbinafine can make you more sensitive to sunlight, so avoid excessive exposure to sunlight when on treatment
Mode of Action of Terbinafine
How Does It Work?
Terbinafine interferes with fungal cell membrane synthesis. This leads to the death of the fungus.
Interactions of Terbinafine
Interactions with other medicines
- Blood pressure-lowering medicines such as Atenolol, Metoprolol and Propranolol
- A blood thinner such as Warfarin
- Rifampicin for infections
- Antidepressants including Tricyclic antidepressants, SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors), or MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors)
- Oral contraceptives (as irregular periods and breakthrough bleeding may occur in some female patients)
- Beta-blockers or anti-arrhythmic for heart problems
- Medicines to treat heart problems (e.g. Propafenone, Amiodarone)
- Ciclosporin
- Medicines used to treat fungal infections (e.g. Fluconazole, Ketoconazole)
- Medicines used to treat cough (e.g. Dextromethorphan)
- Caffeine
Interactions with food items
Terbinafine may also interact with coffee, cola, tea or other drinks that contain caffeine.
Dosage of Terbinafine
Overdose
Overdose is rare with Terbinafine. Doses as high as 5-20 times of actual recommended dosage do not show severe adverse effects. Symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rash, frequent urination, dizziness and headache may be seen....
Missed a Dose
Take the missed dose as early as you remember. Skip the missed dose & do not take extra medicine to compensate for the missed dose. Avoid missing the dosages as it causes resistance in the microorganism....
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Arpit Verma
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Ritu Budania
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should I discuss with my healthcare expert before starting the medication of Terbinafine?
A: Terbinafine is not to be used in patients with liver diseases. It is known to exacerbate (or at times cause) psoriasis. Hence, you must share the history of all existing and past skin diseases. It is advisable to share information on your ongoing medications with your doctor so that the risk of medicine interactions is minimal and optimum results can be achieved with this therapy.
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Disclaimer
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