Lamisil

Lamisil is the brand name for terbinafine, an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections of the skin, nails, and scalp. It belongs to the allylamine class and is fungicidal against many dermatophyte species, which are common causes of ringworm, athletes foot, and related infections. Terbinafine works by inhibiting the enzyme squalene epoxidase in fungal cells, disrupting ergosterol synthesis and leading to the accumulation of toxic squalene and fungal cell death.

Formulations and indications vary by country. Topical forms, including cream, gel, solution, and spray, are used to treat superficial skin infections such as tinea corporis, tinea cruris, and tinea pedis. Oral terbinafine is used for systemic treatment of onychomycosis (nail fungal infections) and can be prescribed for certain scalp infections such as tinea capitis, particularly in children. Dosing and duration depend on the infection site and severity; for nails, treatment often lasts several weeks to months.

Safety and adverse effects: Common side effects include gastrointestinal upset, headaches, and skin reactions. Taste disturbance is also reported and can persist after stopping therapy. Serious liver injury is rare but reported with terbinafine, so liver function monitoring is advised for long-term use or if risk factors are present. Terbinafine can interact with drugs metabolized by the liver enzyme CYP2D6, so potential drug interactions should be reviewed. It should be used with caution in people with liver disease and is contraindicated in those with a known sensitivity to the drug.

Availability: Lamisil is a brand-name product; generic terbinafine is available in many markets. Use and duration should follow a clinician’s guidance and local regulatory labeling.