Lamisil (Terbinafine) Cream

General description: Lamisil Cream is an antifungal medication that is used to treat skin infections such as  jock itch, athlete’s foot or ringworm. This drug is also known for treating a skin condition called pityriasis (tinea versicolor). Its active ingredient is terbinafine hydrochloride 1%. Other excipients are benzyl alcohol, sodium hydroxide, cetyl palmitate, polysorbate 60, isopropyl myristate, purified water. Estimated shelf life of the product is 3 years.

Pharmacokinetics:

Terbinafine belongs to the group of allylamines and has a large spectrum of antifungal activity. It specifically interferes with sterol biosynthesis in fungi at its early stages. This leads to reduced levels of ergosterol and to an accumulation of squalene, which in turn leads to the death of fungal cells. Terbinafine does not affect the metabolic reactions of hormones or other drugs. The vast majority of patients with athlete’s foot, 90%, treated  with Lamisil 1% cream show no evidence of re-infection by three months following the start of treatment

Systemic exposure of the drug is very slight: less than 5% of the cream is absorbed after topical application.

How to use:

Wash your hands and the area to be treated and dry them thoroughly before using the cream. Apply a thin layer of the cream on and around the infected area, once or twice daily as instructed by your pharmacist. DO NOT wrap, bandage or cover the treated area; wear loose clothing.

Side effects:

●      Burning

●      Irritation

●      Itching

●      Swelling

●      Blistering

●      Pruritus

●      Skin exfoliation

●      Erythema

It is very rare to experience a serious allergic reaction to this drug. However, contact you doctor straight away if you notice any allergic symptoms like rash, redness, itching.

Precautions:

●      This medication is for external use only

●      Avoid any contact with eyes

●      Should be kept out of children’s reach

●      It is not advised to use Lamisil on face

●      DO NOT breastfeed while using the medication

●      Consult your doctor if you are allergic to terbinafine or other antifungals

●      DO NOT apply the medication on the scalp or nails

●      Avoid eye/mouth/nose area, as well as applying the cream inside of the vagina