Function: Terbinafine is an allylamine antifungal agent that works by inhibiting the enzyme squalene epoxidase. This enzyme is critical in the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes. By blocking ergosterol production, terbinafine causes a buildup of toxic squalene and disrupts the fungal cell membrane, leading to cell death.
Target: It is effective against a variety of fungi, including dermatophytes (e.g., Trichophyton species), yeasts (e.g., Candida species), and molds.
Indications
Terbinafine cream is indicated for the treatment of superficial fungal infections, including:
- Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis): A fungal infection affecting the skin between the toes and other parts of the foot.
- Jock Itch (Tinea Cruris): A fungal infection of the groin area.
- Ringworm (Tinea Corporis): A fungal infection of the body that appears as a red, ring-shaped rash.
- Tinea Versicolor: A yeast infection that causes small, discolored patches on the skin.
- Cutaneous Candidiasis: Yeast infections of the skin caused by Candida species.
Application: Clean and dry the affected area thoroughly. Apply a thin layer of terbinafine cream to the affected area and surrounding skin once or twice daily, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Duration: Continue using the cream for the full course of treatment, typically ranging from 1 to 2 weeks for most infections. Even if symptoms improve, complete the prescribed treatment duration to prevent recurrence.
Precautions: Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. Do not use on broken skin or large areas of the body without medical advice. Wash hands thoroughly before and after applying the cream.
In the event you miss a dose, it is safe to apply the missed dose as soon as possible. However, if enough time has passed that you should be applying your next dose instead, simply skip the missed dose and resume your typical application schedule.
Always use this medication exactly as your clinician has told you. Check with our clinical team or your GP or pharmacist if you are not sure.
Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Just because a sid/e effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.
Terbinafine Cream is generally well-tolerated when used as directed. However, like all medications, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Understanding these potential side effects, both common and rare, can help users manage and mitigate them effectively.
Common Side Effects
Skin Irritation
Symptoms: Mild burning, stinging, or redness at the application site.
Management: These symptoms are typically temporary and may diminish as the skin adjusts to the medication. If they persist or worsen, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
Dryness
Symptoms: The treated area may become dry, flaky, or exhibit mild peeling.
Management: Using a gentle moisturizer on the affected area can help alleviate dryness, but avoid applying other topical treatments without medical advice.
Itching
Symptoms: Itching at the site of application.
Management: Itching is often a sign of the body's reaction to the medication and usually subsides. If it becomes severe, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
Less Common Side Effects
Contact Dermatitis
Symptoms: Red, itchy rash that may spread beyond the application site.
Cause: Often due to an allergic reaction to terbinafine or other components in the cream.
Management: Discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if this occurs. Treatment for contact dermatitis may involve corticosteroids or other medications.
Exacerbation of Symptoms
Symptoms: Worsening of the fungal infection symptoms, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus formation.
Cause: This may indicate a secondary bacterial infection or an allergic reaction.
Management: Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or do not improve with treatment.
Rare Side Effects
Symptoms: Severe itching, rash, swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
Management: Discontinue use immediately and seek emergency medical attention. This is a medical emergency.
Secondary Skin Infections
Symptoms: Increased redness, warmth, pus, or other signs of infection.
Cause: Prolonged use of topical antifungals can sometimes suppress local immune responses, increasing the risk of bacterial infections.
Management: Consult a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment, which may include antibiotics.
Skin Discoloration
Symptoms: Changes in skin color at the site of application.
Management: Skin discoloration is usually temporary and resolves after discontinuing the cream. If it persists, consult a healthcare provider.
Blistering
Symptoms: Formation of blisters at the application site.
Management: Discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if blistering occurs.
Systemic Side Effects (Rare)
While systemic absorption of topical terbinafine is minimal, prolonged use or application to large areas of the skin can increase the risk. Symptoms of systemic side effects may include:
Gastrointestinal Disturbances
Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.
Management: Discontinue use and seek medical advice if these symptoms occur.
Headache
Symptoms: Mild to moderate headache.
Management: If a headache persists, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
Dizziness
Symptoms: Light-headedness or vertigo.
Management: Discontinue use and seek medical advice if dizziness occurs.
Long-term Use Side Effects
Skin Atrophy
Symptoms: Thinning of the skin, increased fragility, or stretch marks.
Management: Avoid prolonged use of the cream and use it only as directed by a healthcare provider.
Resistance Development
Symptoms: Reduced effectiveness of the cream over time.
Management: Follow the prescribed treatment duration and avoid using the cream for unapproved conditions to prevent resistance.
For full information on side effects and correct use, see the patient information leaflet. If any side effects concern you, or you are experiencing any of the side effects mentioned in the patient information leaflet whilst taking this medication, please contact our clinical team or speak to your GP.
Skin Irritation
Mild irritation such as burning, stinging, or redness at the application site may occur. If irritation persists or worsens, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
Skin Atrophy
Long-term use of corticosteroids can cause thinning of the skin (atrophy), stretch marks, and other skin changes. Use the cream for the shortest duration necessary and avoid prolonged use.
Infection Risk
Corticosteroids can suppress local immune responses, increasing the risk of secondary bacterial or fungal infections. If new signs of infection appear (e.g., increased redness, warmth, pus), discontinue use and seek medical advice.
Allergic Reactions
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to this medication. These include:
- Hives
- Dizziness
- Fast or pounding heartbeats
- Wheezing
- Difficult breathing
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
It is important that you let us know which prescription, over-the-counter medicines and recreational drugs you are currently taking. You must also tell us about any other medical conditions that you currently have (or had in the past). This will help us ensure the prescribed medication is safe and appropriate for you to take.
For full information on warnings, medication interactions and contraindications, refer to the Patient Information Leaflet. Please read all packaging and the Patient Information Leaflet before taking any new medicine and inform our clinical team or your GP of medicines you are taking or intend to take.
