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Terbinafine (topical)

  • Apply a thin layer of terbinafine to the affected areas as directed.
  • Continue to use terbinafine for a further 1 or 2 weeks after your infection has cleared otherwise your infection may come back.

About topical terbinafine

Type of medicineAntifungal
Used forFungal infections of the skin
Also calledLamisil®, Lamisil® AT, Lamisil® Once
Available asCream, cutaneous solution, gel and spray

Terbinafine is used to treat fungal infections of the skin such as tinea infections. Tinea infections may be passed on from another person, from an animal, from soil, from the floors of showers, or from household objects, such as chairs or carpets.

The word tinea is sometimes followed by the Latin term for the affected part of the body, for example, tinea pedis (feet), tinea cruris (groin), tinea corporis (body) and tinea manuum (hands).

The appearance and symptoms of tinea vary according to the site. The most common type is tinea pedis, also called athlete's foot, which causes cracking and itching between the toes.

Before using topical terbinafine

Before using topical terbinafine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you are using other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.

How to apply topical terbinafine

  • Before beginning the treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before and after handling terbinafine.
  • Clean and dry the affected areas thoroughly before you apply terbinafine.
  • If you are using terbinafine cream or gel, apply it thinly to the affected areas once or twice a day.
  • To prevent the infection from returning, continue to use terbinafine for a further 1 or 2 weeks after your infection has cleared.
  • If you forget to use terbinafine, apply it as soon as possible and then continue the rest of your treatment as usual.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Do not allow terbinafine to come into contact with the eyes, ears, or mucous membranes (for example, mouth, vagina, inside of nose etc), unless you are advised to do so by your doctor.
  • Complete the full course of treatment with terbinafine as directed, otherwise your infection may come back.
  • Fungal infections often occur in warm, moist areas of the body. After washing make sure that areas such as between the toes and in skin folds are dried well.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to use with your other medicines.

Can topical terbinafine cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effectsWhat can I do if I experience this
Skin redness, itching, stinging or a burning sensationThis usually occurs at the start of treatment and tends to be short-lived and mild

If you experience any severe skin reactions or other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store topical terbinafine

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • Never use more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has swallowed some of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • British National Formulary; 60th Edition (September 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF)
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2010DocID: 3447DocRef: dils2596Last Reviewed: 14 Oct 2010Version: 22
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