Uses

This medication is used to treat a variety of fungal skin infections such as ringworm, athlete's foot, and jock itch. This medication is also used to treat a skin condition known as pityriasis (tinea versicolor), a fungal infection that causes a lightening or darkening of the skin of the neck, chest, arms, or legs. Terbinafine is an antifungal that works by preventing the growth of fungus.

How to use terbinafine HCl topical

Use this medication on the skin only. Clean and thoroughly dry the area to be treated. Apply a thin layer of the medication on and around the affected area, usually once or twice daily as directed on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Wash your hands after using unless the area being treated includes the hands. Do not wrap, cover, or bandage the area unless directed to do so by your doctor.

Do not apply the medication in the eyes, nose, or mouth, or inside the vagina. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water.

Do not apply this medication on the scalp or nails unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

The dosage and length of treatment depends on the type of infection being treated.

Do not apply more often or use longer than directed. This may increase the risk of side effects.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.

Continue to use this medication until the full treatment period is finished, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may result in a return of the infection.

Your condition may continue to improve after the full treatment is finished. It may take several weeks after treatment for the infection to completely heal. Inform your doctor if your condition worsens or does not improve within 2 weeks for jock itch and ringworm and within 4 weeks for athlete's foot.

Side Effects

Burning, irritation, or itching at the application site may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: blistering/swelling/oozing at the application site.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before using terbinafine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other allylamine antifungals (such as naftifine); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

If you have any health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk when applied to the skin. Other forms of this medication pass into breast milk when taken by mouth. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Disclaimer: Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.