Terbinafine is a medicine considered as a fungicide, that is, a necessary product to prevent growth and effectively eliminatefungiand the spores they transmit, damaging their cell forms mainly.
That is why in this article, we will study the proper composition of terbinafine, taking into account in what quantities its use is recommended, in addition to the effects it can bring.
Index
ToggleWhat is terbinafine?
Terbinafine is a generic drug and an active ingredient with antifungal characteristics, whose mechanism of actionis based on inhibiting the growth of fungi by directly attackingergosterol and its cell membrane, but terbinafine does so at the level of the skin and its surroundings.
This drug is prescribed with a medical prescription, in addition its administration is always oral, since itspresentations are in tablets of 250 mg ofthe active ingredient. Doses depend on the mycosis and are usually initially with a consumption of 250 mg once a day.
Note: One study mentions that: “Its use can be given in two regimens: the continuous form of 250 mg per day and the intermittent or pulsatile of 250mg every 12 hours for one week a monthand three following rest, for a total period of 12 weeks of treatment. “ (1)
What is terbinafine for?
Terbinafine inhibits the growth of mycosis in the skin area, but acts directly towards dermatophytes, the infectious agents that affectskin parts. Specifically, it works as follows:
1. Skin infections
These are the type of fungal conditions that occur on the walls of the dermis , mainly caused by bacteria named Trichophyton , Microsporum or Candida .
Noteworthy: Among the mycoses for which terbinafine is prescribed are tinea corporis (affecting the face, hands, or legs), tinea cruris (located on the thigh and groin area), and also foot athlete (itching and scaling on or around the soles of the feet).
2. Scalp infections
Terbinafine is also indicated for tinea capitis (also called tinea capitis), caused by various dermatophyte agents (although the main ones are Trichophyton and Microsporum ) and occurs in children and young people, as well as in adults.
You should know: The relevant symptoms that you should know how to identify are scaly skin, spots that can get bigger over time, redness and sensitivity in various areas of the head.
3. Nail infections
Finally, the medication terbinafine is prescribed in the case of onychomycosis, an infection that occurs in the nail areatag. It commonly lasts for a short time, however if an ideal treatment is lacking, the mycosis can become chronic.
Note: It is characterized by the presence of nails with a yellowish appearance, sometimes even broken or deformed, accompanied by annoying pain and in the worst case, with the fungus spreading, the nail can slowly detach from the fingers.
Terbinafine Side Effects
Terbinafine can bring with it a series of adverse effects , some of which are very common, which we will learn about below:
- Headache or dizziness.
- Joint pain and abdominal pain.
- Diarrhea and gastric colic.
- Itching or hives.
Important: A study mentions the following information: ” The elderly are more sensitive to the adverse effects of medications, so they should follow the instructions of their doctor during treatment with terbinafine . ” (two)
Terbinafine Contraindications
Terbinafine is also contraindicated for health reasons in certain patients,and this medication may have unwanted interactions with other medications. It is not recommended for these cases:
- Hypersensitivity to the active metabolite.
- Kidney problems or failure.
- Liver function problems.
- Pregnancy and lactation stage.
Key Findings
- Terbinafine is an antifungal medication and active substance, which effectively inhibits the growth of fungi .
- Terbinafine is used to treat fungal infections of the skin, scalp, and nails.
- Terbinafine can Present adverse reactions such as headache, dizziness, urticaria and diarrhea.
- Terbinafine is not recommended for use in patients with kidney and liver problems .

University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.