Generic name: Terbinafine hydrochloride
Brand names: Lamisil
Lamisil 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.
What side effects may occur?
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 Lamisil.
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 Lamisil not be prescribed?
Do not use Lamisil if it has ever given you an allergic reaction.
Special warnings about Lamisil
Changes in the lens and retina of the eye have been reported in people taking Lamisil tablets. If you notice any changes in your vision while taking the tablets, notify your doctor.
Lamisil 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. Lamisil 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 Lamisil.
Lamisil 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 Lamisil tablets, tell your doctor. Lamisil may decrease your ability to fight infection.
Do not use Lamisil 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.
Lamisil has not been tested for safety in children.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Lamisil
If Lamisil 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 Lamisil 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 Lamisil 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.
Lamisil from the tablets does appear in breast milk, so the drug is not recommended while breastfeeding. Do not apply Lamisil cream or solution to the breast.
