Indications 

Lamisil is a prescription medicine indicated for the management of onychomycosis, a fungal infection affecting the toenails or fingernails, which is caused by dermatophyte fungi. 

Lamisil belongs to the class of drugs called allylamine antifungal and functions by impeding the proliferation of fungus. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Lamisil, and with every subsequent refill, meticulously review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Do not hesitate to consult with your physician or pharmacist for any questions or clarifications. 

The dosage and length of intake of Lamisil may vary per individual based on the severity of the infection and response to the treatment.  

Typically, Lamisil is taken once daily, without regard to food intake, for 6 weeks to treat fingernail infections and 12 weeks to treat toenail infections. If given a different prescription by your doctor, adhere to it strictly. 

To achieve optimal results, take Lamisil regularly around the same time daily as prescribed. Do not alter the prescribed dosage and the frequency of administration without your doctor’s approval. 

Do not stop taking Lamisil until the entire prescription is taken. Ceasing the medication prematurely can lead to fungal growth and a potential reappearance of the infection. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are potential adverse reactions associated with Lamisil. If any of them persist or worsen, promptly notify your physician or pharmacist. 

Common Side Effects 

• Gastrointestinal issues such as: 
  • Diarrhea 
  • Nausea 
  • Gas 
  • Stomach pain or upset 
• Development of a rash 
• Headache 
• Abnormal liver function test results 

Serious Side Effects 

• Altered sense of taste or smell 
• Symptoms of depression: 
  • Sleep disturbances 
  • Lack of interest in daily activities 
  • Feelings of anxiety or restlessness 
• Signs of abnormal bleeding: 
  • Pale skin 
  • Easy bruising 
  • Appearance of purple or red pinpoint spots under the skin 
• Swelling, rapid weight gain, or decreased urination 
• Presence of blood in urine or stools 
• Unexplained weight loss due to changes in taste or appetite 
• Skin sores and a butterfly-shaped rash on the cheeks and nose that worsen in sunlight 

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the severe symptoms mentioned above. 

The use of Lamisil can rarely lead to severe and potentially fatal liver disease. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms of liver damage, including: 

• Unrelenting nausea and vomiting 
• Loss of appetite 
• Severe abdominal pain 
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes 
• Dark urine 

A severe drug reaction may manifest several weeks after initiating Lamisil treatment, affecting various body parts. Seek medical attention promptly if any such symptoms occur, including: 

• Skin rash 
• Fever 
• Swollen glands 
• Flu-like symptoms 
• Muscle aches 
• Severe weakness 
• Unusual bruising 
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes 

Allergic Reactions 

Seek immediate medical attention if you exhibit any symptoms of an allergic reaction to Lamisil, including: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Facial or throat swelling 

Contact a healthcare provider immediately if you experience a severe skin reaction, such as: 

• Fever 
• Sore throat 
• Burning sensation in the eyes 
• Skin pain 
• Appearance of a red or purple rash that spreads, blisters, and peels 

The side effects of Lamisil listed here are not complete. If any unmentioned side effects occur and cause discomfort, notify your doctor immediately. 

Cautions 

Before starting Lamisil treatment, nail specimens should be obtained for laboratory testing (KOH preparation, fungal culture, or nail biopsy) to verify the diagnosis of onychomycosis. 

Before taking Lamisil, inform your physician or pharmacist of any known hypersensitivities, particularly to terbinafine, other medications, or any inactive ingredients present in Lamisil tablets. 

To determine whether Lamisil is safe for you, disclose your medical history to your doctor, with a particular emphasis on the following: 

• Immune system issues 
• Kidney or liver disease 
• Lupus 

Certain products may interact with Lamisil, including: 

• Warfarin 
• Drugs that impact liver enzymes responsible for eliminating terbinafine from the body, such as: 
  • Amiodarone 
  • Cimetidine 
  • Rifampin 
  • Azole antifungals like fluconazole/ketoconazole 
• Drugs metabolized by specific liver enzymes such as: 
  • Tricyclic antidepressants 
  • SSRI antidepressants 
  • Beta-blockers 
  • Dextromethorphan 
  • Thioridazine 
  • Drugs used for treating heart rhythm issues 
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors type B, such as rasagiline 

To prevent any drug interactions, inform your healthcare provider and pharmacist about all medications you are currently taking or plan to take, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products. 

To avoid skin sensitivity caused by Lamisil, limit unnecessary or extended exposure to sunlight and artificial UV light sources (such as tanning beds or UVA/B treatment) and use protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen when going out. 

Lamisil should be used during pregnancy only when necessary. Treatment for fungal nail infections can typically be postponed until after delivery. Consult your doctor to weigh the risks and benefits. 

Breastfeeding while using terbinafine is not recommended, as it can be passed into breast milk, potentially harming the nursing infant.