Lamisil

Lamisil Medication Overview

Lamisil, generically known as terbinafine, is an antifungal medication prescribed to treat fungal infections of the nails and skin. It functions by inhibiting the growth of fungi, thereby helping to eliminate the infection.

Available Formulations

Lamisil is available in different formulations including oral tablets, topical cream, and topical solution. The oral tablet form is typically used for nail infections, whereas the topical form is used for skin infections such as athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm.

Specific Indications for Use

Lamisil tablets are indicated for the treatment of onychomycosis, a fungal infection of the nail caused by dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds. The topical forms are indicated for the treatment of tinea pedis (athlete’s foot), tinea cruris (jock itch), and tinea corporis (ringworm). It is not effective against infections caused by bacteria or viruses.

Dosage and Administration

The dosing of oral Lamisil for adults with onychomycosis is typically one 250 mg tablet once daily for 6 weeks for fingernail infections and for 12 weeks for toenail infections. The topical cream or solution should be applied to the affected area once or twice a day for one to four weeks, depending on the location and severity of the infection. It is crucial to complete the full course of treatment to prevent recurrence of the infection.

Precautions Before Taking Lamisil

Patients with liver or kidney impairment may need dosage adjustments or may not be appropriate candidates for Lamisil therapy. A thorough medical history and possibly liver function tests may be required before initiation of therapy. Known hypersensitivity to terbinafine or any components of the Lamisil formulation is a contraindication to its use.

Potential Drug Interactions

Lamisil has the potential to interact with several other medications, which can alter its effectiveness or increase the risk of adverse effects. Drugs that may interact include but are not limited to antidepressants, beta-blockers, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and other antifungal agents. Care should be taken when prescribing alongside medications metabolized through the cytochrome P450 enzyme system.

Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

Common side effects associated with oral Lamisil include headache, diarrhea, dyspepsia, and rash. More serious but less common side effects may include liver dysfunction, severe skin reactions, and blood dyscrasias. If the patient experiences persistent nausea, fatigue, right upper abdominal pain, dark urine, or jaundice, they should seek medical attention immediately as these may be signs of liver damage. The topical form may cause local irritation such as burning or itching.

Special Populations and Considerations

In pediatric patients, the safety and efficacy of Lamisil have not been established for children under the age of 18 years. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consider the potential risks and benefits as terbinafine may be excreted in breast milk and may harm the fetus. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the drug and may require dose adjustments.

Storage and Disposal of Lamisil

Tablets should be stored at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Unused or expired Lamisil should be disposed of in accordance with local regulations to ensure that children, pets, and wildlife are protected from accidental ingestion.

Instructions for Use

For the oral form of Lamisil, it is recommended to take the tablet with a full glass of water. It can be taken with or without food, but consistency in relation to meals can help maintain stable blood levels of the medication. For topical forms, the area should be cleaned and dried thoroughly before application, and the hands should be washed after applying the product.

Monitoring and Follow-up

Regular follow-up appointments may be necessary to monitor the patient’s response to treatment, especially for those taking the oral form. Liver function tests should be considered prior to starting treatment and periodically throughout the duration of long-term therapy. In the event of a suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a Poison Control Center.