Terbinafine (Lamisil)

NHS information about the medicine terbinafine, including what it's used for, who can take it, how to take it and side effects.

What terbinafine is for

Terbinafine is an antifungal medicine. It's used to treat:

• skin infections, such as athlete's foot, ringworm, pityriasis versicolor, or jock itch (around the groin, top of the legs and buttocks)
• nail infections

How to take terbinafine and how much to take

Terbinafine usually comes as cream, gel or spray you put on your skin, or as tablets you swallow.

Which type you need and how long you use it for depends on why you're using it.

Always check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine. Ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice if you're not sure how to take it or have any problems taking it.

How to use or take terbinafine

Side effects of terbinafine

Like all medicines, terbinafine can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them.

Possible side effects of terbinafine cream, gel or spray include:

• itchy, irritated or peeling skin
• pain or a burning feeling on your skin
• redness or other changes to your skin colour (this may be harder to see on black or brown skin)

Possible side effects of terbinafine tablets include:

• headache
• diarrhoea
• a rash
• joint or muscle pain
• stomach ache, indigestion, feeling bloated or not feeling as hungry as usual
• loss of taste or a change in how things taste
• feeling dizzy

Terbinafine will not usually affect your ability to drive, ride a bike or use machinery, but if you feel dizzy or very tired after taking it, wait until this stops.

More about side effects

These are not all the side effects of terbinafine.

For a full list, see the leaflet that came with your medicine or search for your medicine leaflet on the electronic medicines compendium website.

You can report any side effects you get on the Yellow Card website

Who can and cannot take or use terbinafine

Most adults and children aged 16 and over can take or use terbinafine. It's only available on prescription for children under 16.

But terbinafine is not suitable for some people.

For example, it may not be suitable if:

• you've had an allergic reaction or serious side effect from terbinafine or other antifungal medicine.

Terbinafine tablets may also not be suitable if:

• you have severe liver problems or kidney problems
• you have psoriasis or lupus
• you have joint pain

Check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if it's suitable for you. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're not sure if you can take or use it.

Breastfeeding and terbinafine

Terbinafine is not usually recommended if you're breastfeeding. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor for advice.

Pregnancy and terbinafine

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist before taking or using terbinafine if you're pregnant or think you might be pregnant. They may suggest a different medicine.

Terbinafine is not usually recommended in pregnancy but may be used if the benefits outweigh the risks.

Taking terbinafine with other medicines, food and drink

There are some medicines, remedies and supplements that may not mix well with terbinafine.

If you're taking terbinafine tablets, this includes:

• antidepressants
• other medicines used to treat fungal infections, such fluconazole
• medicines containing caffeine, such as some cold remedies or painkillers
• medicines for heart problems, such as beta blockers or anti-arrhythmics (like amiodarone)
• opioid painkillers, such as codeine or tramadol

Check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine to see if it's suitable for you. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you're not sure you can take it.

Food, drink and alcohol with terbinafine

It's best not to drink too much caffeine while taking terbinafine tablets. The medicine can increase the effects of caffeine.

Otherwise, you can eat and drink as normal.

Find out more about your medicine

To find out more about your medicine, you can:

• check the leaflet that comes with it
• search for your medicine leaflet on the electronic medicines compendium website
• speak to a pharmacist or doctor for advice