Lamisil

Generic name: Terbinafine hydrochloride

What is Lamisil?

Lamisil is used to treat fungal infections. The tablets are used for fungus of the toenail or fingernail. The cream and 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. Lamisil oral granules are used for the treatment of tinea capitis (a fungal infection of the scalp hair follicles) in adults and children 4 years and older.

What is the most important information I should know about Lamisil?

Lamisil works gradually. It usually takes a week for results to start becoming apparent. Toenail infections require 12 weeks of treatment; fingernail infections require 6 weeks. The condition can continue to improve for 2-6 weeks after completing treatment, though it may take more time for nails to grow in. It may take about 10-12 months for toenails and about 4-6 months for fingernails to grow in completely.

If you see no change at all after a full week of applying the cream or solution, notify your doctor; the problem may not be fungal.

Changes in the lens and retina of the eye have been reported in people taking Lamisil. If you notice any changes in your vision while taking the tablets, notify your doctor.

Lamisil has 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 is 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.

Isolated cases of decreases in white blood cell count have been reported. In all of the reported cases to date, these have been reversible. If you have problems with your immune system, your doctor may need to monitor your white blood cell count carefully if you take Lamisil for more than 6 weeks. In some cases, Lamisil therapy may need to be discontinued.

Lamisil has, 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, 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.

Who should not take Lamisil?

Do not take Lamisil if you are sensitive to any component of the drug or if you have lupus erythematosus.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Lamisil?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Lamisil. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have diabetes, kidney or liver disease, a weak immune system, or lupus erythematosus.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Cream and Gel

Athlete's Foot

Adults: For athlete's foot found only on the soles of the feet and not between the toes, use the cream twice a day for 2 weeks. For athlete's foot found between the toes, use the cream twice a day for 1 week. Do not use for more than 4 weeks.

Jock Itch and Ringworm

Adults: Apply to the affected and closely surrounding areas once a day for at least 1 week. Do not use for more than 4 weeks.

Solution

Athlete's Foot and Tinea Versicolor

Adults: Apply to the affected and closely surrounding areas twice a day for 1 week.

Jock Itch and Ringworm

Adults: Apply to the affected and closely surrounding areas once a day for 1 week.

Tablets

Fungal Infection of the Fingernails

Adults: The usual dose is 250 milligrams (mg) once a day for 6 weeks.

Fungal Infection of the Toenails

Adults: The usual dose is 250 mg once a day for 12 weeks.

The safety and efficacy of Lamisil tablets and cream have not been established in children under 12.

Oral Granules

Tinea capitis

Adults and children 4 years and older: Dosing is based upon body weight, but typically 1 to 2 packets should be taken each day. Treatment should last 6 weeks.

How should I take Lamisil?

Take Lamisil tablets exactly as directed. Lamisil can be taken with or without food. For best results, be sure to take the complete course of your medicine. Continue using Lamisil for the full amount of time your doctor prescribes, even if your symptoms being to improve.

Before applying the cream, gel, or solution, wash the affected area with soap and water and dry completely before applying. Use enough solution to wet the entire area, and to cover the affected skin and surrounding area. Do not cover the treated area with dressings unless directed by your doctor.

Take Lamisil oral granules with a soft nonacidic food such as mashed potatoes (do not use applesauce or a fruit-based food). Swallow the combination of food and granules without chewing.

What should I avoid while taking Lamisil?

Avoid alcohol while taking Lamisil. Alcohol and Lamisil can both affect the liver.

Do not apply Lamisil cream, gel, or solution to the breast. Avoid getting Lamisil cream, gel, or solution in your eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina. Do not use the spray form on your face. In case of accidental contact with the eyes, rinse your eyes thoroughly with running water and call your doctor if the symptoms persist.

Avoid using bandages or wraps on areas of your body on which you have applied Lamisil cream or solution.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with 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 with the following: antidepressants (such as fluoxetine, imipramine, paroxetine, phenelzine, sertraline, and tranylcypromine), cimetidine, cyclosporine, beta-blockers (such as atenolol and propranolol), flecainide, propafenone, rasagiline, rifampin, and selegiline.

What are the possible side effects of Lamisil?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: (Tablets) diarrhea, headache, rash, upset stomach; (cream and solution) burning or irritation, itching, dryness, peeling, rash

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, tell your doctor immediately.

Changes in the lens and retina of the eye have been reported in people taking Lamisil. If you notice any vision changes while taking Lamisil, tell your doctor.

Can I receive Lamisil if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. It is not recommended to take Lamisil while breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Lamisil?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Lamisil?

Lamisil tablets should be stored in a tight container, away from direct light, at or below room temperature. Store Lamisil oral granules at room temperature.