Generic
Terbinafine Topical
32 brands available in the market
At a glance
Terbinafine Topical is an antifungal cream/spray used for skin fungal infections such as athlete's foot, tinea corporis, tinea cruris, candidiasis, and pityriasis versicolor.
Description
Terbinafine is an allylamine antifungal that inhibits squalene epoxidase, preventing ergosterol synthesis, causing accumulation of squalene and increased membrane permeability, leading to fungal cell death. It has fungicidal activity against dermatophytes and some yeasts.
Indications
- Tinea pedis (athlete's foot)
- Tinea corporis
- Tinea cruris
- Cutaneous candidiasis
- Pityriasis versicolor
Therapeutic class
Topical Antifungal Preparations
Pharmacological class
Allylamine Antifungal
Pharmacology
Terbinafine inhibits squalene epoxidase, preventing ergosterol synthesis, causing accumulation of squalene and increased membrane permeability. It exhibits fungicidal activity against dermatophytes and some yeasts.
Mechanism of action
Destroys fungal cell membranes by inhibiting squalene epoxidase.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Topical):
- Tinea corporis/cruris: 1-2 times daily (1-2 weeks)
- Tinea pedis: 1-2 times daily (1 week; up to 4 weeks)
- Candidiasis/pityriasis versicolor: 1-2 times daily (2 weeks)
Administration
- Clean and dry the affected area; apply a thin layer
- For external use only; avoid contact with eyes
- Wash hands after application
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember; if almost time for the next dose, skip it; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Application site burning, irritation, itching, redness
- Skin peeling
Precautions & warnings
- For external use only
- Avoid contact with eyes, nose, or mouth
- Inform doctor if no improvement after 4 weeks
- Skin may become more sensitive to sun; use sunscreen
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to terbinafine
- Active or chronic liver disease
- Lactation
Drug interactions
- May increase levels of drugs metabolized by CYP450 2D6
- Rifampicin: Decreased terbinafine concentration
- Cimetidine: Increased terbinafine concentration
Food interactions
Alcohol consumption is not relevant (topical application).
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Generally safe; animal studies show low or no adverse effects; limited human data; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Probably unsafe; limited data suggests drug may pass into breast milk and harm the baby; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Not FDA approved for pediatric patients
Geriatric use
Safe for elderly
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Not applicable (topical application)
Hepatic Impairment: Not applicable (topical application)
Overdose effects
Overdose is not applicable (topical application); excessive use may cause skin irritation.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C in a cool and dry place, protected from light; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Terbinafine Topical