The terbinafine , is a broad – spectrum antifungal derived from allylamine. This active substance has the ability to directly interfere with the early biosynthesis of fungal sterol in order to stop growth and completely eliminate a wide variety of fungi and yeasts that cause severe fungal skin infections.
Index
Uses and indications of terbinafine
This medicine has the function of fighting fungi that cause infection, it inhibits the formation of small holes in the membranes of fungal cells, which are vital for fungi to survive.
These prevent the attacking substances from penetrating the cells, completely eliminating the infection caused by fungi.
Thanks to the active substances of this antifungal, it is possible to stop the growth that affects the skin and various infections such as those mentioned below:
- Athlete’s foot fungus or ringworm : manifests with peeling, itching, pimples between the toes, rash and blisters.
- Dermatophytosis : mycosis in the body that presents circular red spots, these become larger when not being treated.
- Onychomycosis or ringworm of the nails : this infection has the characteristic that the nails become weak, allowing them to become thick, brittle and brown or yellowish.
- Tinea capitis : it develops on the scalp, gives it a scaly and reddened appearance that generates a bad smell.
- Tinea cruris : it is a mycosis that forms in the groin.
- Sporothrichosis : it is a skin infection caused by the fungus Sporothrix schenckii, it occurs through nodules that spread through the lymphatic pathways, transforming into ulcers and abscesses.
- Intertrigo : refers to cutaneous candidiasis.
- Pityriasis versicolor : it can also be called white cloth, it is a mycosis of the skin that occurs due to the malassezia fungus.
What to consider before taking terbinafine
- On some occasions, this medicine can cause liver problems, therefore, the treating doctor will have to ensure the patient’s health through blood tests to be able to be sure and control the functioning of the liver before indicating treatment.
- These tests should surely be repeated after a few weeks of treatment to continue observing the liver function of the person being treated.
- In case of adverse effects, especially yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark urine, pale stools, fatigue, nausea and abdominal pain, the doctor should be informed immediately.
How to use terbinafine
This medicine comes in the following forms:
In tablets
- They can be taken with or without food.
- For fingernail infections, it can be taken once a day for 6 weeks.
- For foot fungus, it should be taken once a day for 12 weeks.
- It should be taken strictly as the doctor inca, that is, it should not stop before finishing the treatment, nor extend its intake.
In granules
- It is administered orally and preferably with soft foods such as yogurt, pudding or any type of puree.
- Its dosage should be 1 time a day for the time of 6 weeks.
- It should not be mixed with fruits.
- The packet of granules is sprinkled on the teaspoon with the food and should be swallowed without chewing.
In cream
- This presentation is for external use only, should not be ingested.
- Instructions should be followed or as prescribed by the physician.
- Hands should be washed well before applying the product and after using it.
- It is recommended to apply enough amount of cream to cover the affected area and everything around it.
- The affected area should not be covered with dressings or bandages.
- It cannot have contact with the eyes, in case this happens, it should be rinsed with plenty of cold water.
- Even if the infection is considered to have improved, the treatment must be done for the indicated time.
- The recommended dose is 3 times a day, for as long as the doctor has prescribed.
Terbinafine Precautions
To use this type of treatment, it is important to know what your precautions are:
- If the patient has hypersensitivity to this active principle or to any of its excipients, it should be avoided and consulted with a doctor.
- In the presence of the following symptoms, this medicine should not be consumed:
- – Problems in the kidney or liver system.
- – Suffering from asthma.
- – Hives or skin rashes.
- – Chronic stomach problems.
- It is necessary to avoid drinking alcoholic beverages during this treatment, to avoid adverse reactions.
- It is not recommended in pregnant women, as the risks can be dangerous.
Terbinafine Side Effects
Some medications can cause symptoms or adverse effects to the body of people when used and this is no exception. If any of these conditions occur, you should immediately inform your doctor or go to the nearest emergency center. Symptoms include:
- Depression, mood swings, and feelings of sadness.
- Indigestion.
- Diarrhea.
- Itching in the body.
- Headache.
- Lack of energy and disinterest in the execution of daily activities.
- Insomnia.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constant tiredness
- Lack of appetite.
- Red, scaly rash with sensitivity to sunlight.
- Urticaria.
- Pale stools
- Hoarsely.
- Difficulty swallowing and breathing.
- Jaundice in the eyes and on the skin.
- Shedding of the skin
- Flaking
- Swollen lymph glands.
- Discoloration on the skin.
- Canker sores in the mouth.
- Swelling in the mouth, tongue and throat.
- Dark urine and pale stools.
- Fever accompanied by sore throats.
- Chest pains
- Unusual bruising and bleeding
- Irregularity in the heart system.
- Shaking chills.
- Changes in the sense of taste and smell.
- Sores on the skin
- Presentation of blood in the stool and urine.
- Sudden weight gain and body swelling.
- Feeling of anxiety and restlessness.
- Heartburn and pain in the stomach.
- Hepatic toxicity.
Terbinafine Use Conclusion
To conclude, it can be said that this antifungal has great potential to end the presence of conditions caused by yeasts and fungi in various parts of the body. Its effect weakens the cell membrane of the fungus, thus completely eliminating infections in different areas of the skin, nails and the scalp.
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Dr. Samantha Robson ( CRN: 0510146-5) is a nutritionist and website content reviewer related to her area of expertise. With a postgraduate degree in Nutrition from The University of Arizona, she is a specialist in Sports Nutrition from Oxford University and is also a member of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.