Why is this medication prescribed?

Terbinafine granules are used to treat fungal infections of the scalp. Terbinafine tablets are used to treat fungal infections of the toenails and fingernails. Terbinafine is in a class of medications called antifungals. It works by stopping the growth of fungi.

How should this medicine be used?

Terbinafine is available as an oral tablet and granules. For six weeks, terbinafine granules are typically given once daily with soft food. For fingernail infections, terbinafine tablets are often given once daily for six weeks, with or without food, and for toenail infections, once daily for twelve weeks. Pay close attention to the instructions on the label of your prescription and ask your pharmacist or doctor to explain anything you do not understand. Consume terbinafine precisely as prescribed. Never take more or less of it, or take it more frequently than your doctor has instructed.

A tablespoon of soft food, such as pudding or mashed potatoes, should have the complete packet of terbinafine granules sprinkled on it to prepare a dose. Avoid scattering the granules over soft foods that contain fruit, such applesauce. If your physician has prescribed two packets of terbinafine granules, you can either sprinkle one spoonful of the contents from each packet, or you can sprinkle each package onto a different spoonful of soft food.

Chewless swallow the scoop of soft food and granules.

It can take several months after you stop using terbinafine for your fungus to entirely disappear. This is due to the fact that good nails require time to grow in.

When you start terbinafine medication and every time you refill your prescription, you will get the manufacturer’s patient information sheet (Medication Guide) from your doctor or pharmacist. If you have any questions, make sure to approach your pharmacist or doctor after thoroughly reading the material.

Other uses for this medicine

Some potential off-label uses for terbinafine may include:

• Management of certain types of fungal infections in pets, under veterinary supervision.
• Investigational or experimental use in research settings for conditions beyond fungal infections.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions when using terbinafine, here are some important points to keep in mind:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to terbinafine or any other medications. This is important to prevent potential allergic reactions.
• Medical history: Provide your healthcare provider with a complete medical history, including any past or present medical conditions, especially liver problems or lupus.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using terbinafine with your healthcare provider. Terbinafine may not be recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or its use may require special monitoring.
• Liver function: Terbinafine can affect liver function, so regular monitoring of liver enzymes may be necessary during treatment. Inform your doctor if you experience symptoms of liver problems, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, abdominal pain, or unusual fatigue.
• Drug interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking, as terbinafine may interact with certain medications, including some antibiotics, antidepressants, and antifungals.
• Side effects: Be aware of potential side effects of terbinafine, such as gastrointestinal upset, headache, rash, and taste disturbances. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider.
• Avoid alcohol: It is generally advised to avoid alcohol while taking terbinafine, as it may increase the risk of liver problems.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and recommendations when using terbinafine, and do not hesitate to ask any questions or seek clarification about your treatment plan.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with terbinafine. However, maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can support overall health and aid in the recovery process.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

When taking terbinafine granules, if you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. On the other hand, if the next dose is almost here, skip the one you missed and stick to your usual dosage plan. Never take two doses to make up for something you forgot to take.

When taking terbinafine tablets, if you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. You should, however, avoid the missed dose and stick to your regular dosing plan if your next dose is in less than 4 hours. Never take two doses to make up for something you forgot to take.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Terbinafine, like any medication, can cause side effects in some people. While not everyone experiences side effects, it’s essential to be aware of potential adverse reactions. Common side effects of terbinafine include:

• Gastrointestinal Issues: This may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. These symptoms are usually mild and temporary.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches while taking terbinafine.
• Taste Disturbances: Terbinafine can sometimes cause changes in taste perception or a metallic taste in the mouth.
• Skin Reactions: Rarely, terbinafine may cause skin reactions such as rash, itching, or hives.
• Liver Problems: Although rare, terbinafine can affect liver function in some individuals, leading to symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, abdominal pain, or unusual fatigue. Regular monitoring of liver enzymes may be necessary during treatment.
• Serious Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, terbinafine can cause serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and severe skin rash.
• Other Potential Side Effects: Terbinafine may also rarely cause other side effects, such as changes in blood cell counts, muscle pain or weakness, and mood changes.

It’s important to note that the above list is not exhaustive, and individual responses to terbinafine may vary. If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms while taking terbinafine, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Additionally, if you have any concerns about potential side effects or are experiencing symptoms that are bothersome or persistent, discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and determine the best course of action based on your individual health status.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage:

• Store at Room Temperature: Terbinafine should be stored at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
• Keep Away from Children: Ensure that terbinafine is stored in a location that is out of reach of children and pets.
• Follow Specific Instructions: If your terbinafine medication comes with specific storage instructions provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider, follow those instructions carefully.

Disposal:

• Follow Local Guidelines: Dispose of unused or expired terbinafine tablets or granules products according to local guidelines or regulations.
• Do Not Flush: Do not flush terbinafine tablets down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so by your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
• Consult Pharmacist: If you have questions about how to properly dispose of terbinafine or any other medications, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for guidance.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Attention: In case of an overdose or if you suspect someone has ingested terbinafine tablets accidentally, contact emergency medical services or a poison control center immediately.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms of terbinafine overdose may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, headache, and liver problems. Prompt medical attention is crucial in case of an overdose.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Dosage Instructions: Take terbinafine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dosage unless instructed to do so.
• Complete Full Course: Complete the full course of terbinafine treatment, even if your symptoms improve before finishing the medication. This helps ensure that the infection is fully treated and prevents the development of drug resistance.
• Follow-up Appointments: Attend all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and response to treatment.
• Inform Healthcare Provider: Inform your healthcare provider about any other medical conditions you have, medications you are taking (including over-the-counter and herbal supplements), and any allergies you may have.
• Avoid Alcohol: It’s generally advised to avoid alcohol consumption while taking terbinafine, as it may increase the risk of liver problems.
• Contact Healthcare Provider: If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking terbinafine, contact your healthcare provider promptly for guidance.

By following these guidelines for storage, disposal, and emergency procedures, as well as other important information, you can use terbinafine safely and effectively as prescribed by your healthcare provider.