Terbinafine Side Effects

Terbinafine is a drug used to treat fungal infection. It belongs to the group of antifungals and is commonly found under the trade name Lamisil. Terbinafine is available and used in the form of oral medications as well as an ointment. This is a prescription medication meant for treating toenail fungus. It is usually taken for a longer period of time to completely stop and eradicate the fungal growth. Here we will see more on the side effects of this drug experienced when taken orally or used as an external application for toenail fungus treatment.

Side Effects of Terbinafine

Many people are tolerant to this drug and do not experience any side effects. However, sometimes, side effects ranging from minor to severe ones may be experienced. Signs of liver problems like nausea, vomiting, yellowing of the skin, etc., are some of the most commonly observed negative effects of this drug. The following are the potential terbinafine side effects when taken orally:

• Long-lasting nausea
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Severe abdominal pain
• Sore throat
• Darkening of urine
• Vomiting
• Chills
• Yellowing of eyes and skin
• Tightness in chest
• Difficulty in breathing
• Changes in vision
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Wheezing
• Indigestion
• Headache
• Heartburn
• Rash
• Allergic reaction

Apart from these, in rare cases, other side effects like muscle or joint pain, hair loss, low blood count, etc., may also be observed. Along with these, there are several terbinafine cream side effects that may be observed:

• Itching
• Hives
• Red blistered skin
• Swollen skin
• Skin rash
• Peeling of skin
• Dry skin
• Burning sensation on skin
• Skin irritation

This is not an exhaustive list. If a person observes any of these terbinafine hydrochloride side effects, he / she should consult the doctor immediately. Most of these side effects are minor in nature and may subside after some time. They may not even require any treatment. On the other hand, certain side effects of terbinafine can be severe and may require a further medical treatment. In either cases, if one observes any of the above mentioned symptoms on taking terbinafine, he / she should consult the doctor.

Sometimes, this drug interacts with other medications and antibiotics like tricyclic antidepressants, SSRIs, beta blockers, etc. and may lead to severe side effects. One should talk to the doctor and inform about other medications before using terbinafine. Sometimes, this drug is used for toenail fungus treatment. But, one should not use this drug without doctor's recommendation, as there are potential side effects related to it. It should also be noted that terbinafine should be taken only in prescribed amount for the prescribed period of time to avoid negative reactions. If a person misses his dose, he should not take a double dose, as it can lead to toxicity caused due to overdose of terbinafine, similar to other prescription drugs. Most of the above mentioned side effects are also observed in case one suffers from terbinafine overdose. It is also advised to consult the doctor if one takes an accidental excess dose of terbinafine.

As a conclusion, we can sum it up by suggesting that one should not go for any drugs and medications without consulting the doctor. These drugs can be effective only when taken on doctor's recommendations and supervision. Take care!