Terbinafine

What is Terbinafine?

Terbinafine is an antifungal tablet that contains the active ingredient terbinafine. This attacks the source of nail fungus infections to reduce symptoms and treat infection. The pills are small and easy to swallow, and a typical course lasts six to twelve weeks.

Terbinafine tablets are also available under the brand-name Lamisil. The main difference between Terbinafine and Lamisil is the branding: Terbinafine is a generic treatment that can be made by several companies, while Lamisil is a branded tablet made by just one.

How does Terbinafine work?

Nail fungus infections happen when yeast or mould from the environment enter small cracks in the skin around your nail. This fungus is strengthened by chemicals called sterols. Sterols hold the membrane of the fungi together so that it can grow.

Terbinafine attacks sterols and prevents them from strengthening the fungi. Without these sterols, the infection membranes break down and the infection is eradicated. ^[1]

What doses of Terbinafine tablets are there?

Terbinafine tablets come in a single dosage size of 250mg.

Terbinafine is also available as a cream, gel and spray, and your physician may suggest a short combined course of tablets and cream.

How to take Terbinafine tablets

For nail fungus affecting your fingernails, the typical treatment regimen is to take one pill a day for six weeks. Swallow it whole with water, at the same time every day.

For nail fungus affecting your toenails, the treatment course is a little longer — one tablet a day for twelve weeks. Your doctor will let you know exactly how to take your medication when they prescribe it to you.

How long does it take Terbinafine to work?

When taken daily, terbinafine tablets generally take six-to-twelve weeks to work.^[1] Your treatment time will depend on the location of your infection. Our physician will tell you how long to take the tablets for.

What should I do if I make a mistake when taking Terbinafine?

The best way to avoid making a mistake when taking Terbinafine tablets is to take the tablets at the same time every day.

If you forget to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember. (But don’t double your dose to make up for the forgotten one, as this can increase your risk of side effects.) If it’s nearly time to take your next dose, simply skip the one you missed, and carry on as normal from your next dose.