1. Will Terbinafine treat ringworm?
Yes. Terbinafine has been popularly used to treat infections like ringworm of the foot, groin, and body (tinea corporis). The medicine comes in different forms like cream, gel, and spray. Applying Terbinafine to the affected area 2–3 times daily provides benefits. Terbinafine is one of the most successful medicines used to treat ringworm infections.
2. How long does it take for Terbinafine to work?
The duration and efficacy of treatment depend on the type of fungal infection. Typically, terbinafine takes 4 to 6 weeks in cases of ringworm and athlete's foot. However, nail infections take a little longer to heal – between 6 to 12 weeks. Toenails take even longer to heal than fingernails.
3. Can terbinafine cause liver damage?
Yes. Terbinafine has been known to cause liver damage, even leading to requiring liver transplants. You should be aware of signs of liver damage like red urine, yellowing skin or eyes, etc. Get a medical opinion if you develop such signs. Inform your doctor of your past liver problems, if any, before opting for terbinafine.
4. Is terbinafine an antibiotic?
No. Terbinafine is not an antibiotic. Both antifungals and antibiotics are anti-microbial. However, antibiotics work against bacterial microorganisms, for example, penicillin or amoxicillin fight bacteria like E. coli or streptococci. Terbinafine has no known antibacterial properties. It cannot fight against such bacterial growth because it is antifungal instead. It kills fungi causing hair, skin, and nail infections.
5. Can Terbinafine cause acne?
No. Commonly, terbinafine is not known to cause acne. However, the topical use of terbinafine can cause peeling or severe itching of the skin at the area of application. These can be allergic side effects. Consult our experts to know more about the skin reactions that take place with terbinafine.
6. Can Terbinafine cream be used on the face?
No. Terbinafine cream cannot be used on the face. Take special care when using the cream for other body parts as well. Wash your hands properly after the application of the medicine. Do not touch your eyes, nose, or ears in the process. Get medical help immediately if terbinafine has been used incorrectly.
7. Does terbinafine affect birth control?
No. There is no evidence that terbinafine affects birth control. Your oral pills can be continued alongside the oral pills. Terbinafine has not been reported to increase or decrease fertility either. However, vomiting due to terbinafine may render the oral pill useless. Contact our medical expert to know about the topic in detail.
8. How safe is terbinafine?
Terbinafine is generally considered to be a safe medication. The serious side effects happen only in rare, severe cases. Ensure you give proper details to the doctor about your past medical records. You also must not use terbinafine if you have recorded previous allergies to the drug. Stay alert regarding signs of liver or muscle damage.
9. What should you not take with terbinafine?
Avoid substances like coffee when using terbinafine. Avoid going out in the sun as terbinafine increases your likelihood of developing sunburns. Terbinafine is a safe medication that does not react adversely with other drugs. However, keep your doctor informed if you're taking antidepressants, oral contraceptives, beta-blockers, amiodarone, warfarin, or tamoxifen.
10. Does Terbinafine make your hair fall out?
Yes. Terbinafine is one of the antifungal drugs that is known to cause severe hair fall in a few cases. However, this side effect is very rare and may affect only 1 in 10,000 people. Get in touch with our medical expert to know more about this condition.
