Terbinafine is a prescription oral antifungal medication used to treat onychomycosis, a fungal infection of the fingernails or toenails. It works by inhibiting squalene epoxidase, an enzyme essential for fungal cell membrane production. This disruption causes a buildup of squalene inside the fungal cell, leading to cell death and clearance of the infection.
Oral terbinafine has been shown to be one of the most effective treatments for achieving a complete mycological cure in toenail fungal infections. Treatment duration depends on whether fingernails or toenails are affected.
Usage Instructions
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Take exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily
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Continue therapy for the full duration prescribed, even if nail appearance improves before treatment is complete
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Fingernail infections are typically treated for 6 weeks; toenail infections for 12 weeks
Warnings & Precautions
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Use only under medical supervision, especially if you have liver disease or a history of liver problems
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Your provider may order blood tests to monitor liver function during treatment
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Possible side effects include headache, diarrhea, stomach upset, rash, or changes in taste
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Seek medical attention if you experience persistent nausea, fatigue, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin or eyes, as these may be signs of liver damage
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Inform your healthcare provider of all medications you take, as terbinafine may interact with certain drugs