Lamisil (Generic name: Terbinafine)

What is the most important information I should know about Lamisil?

• Take all of the Lamisil that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. The symptoms may begin to improve before the infection is completely treated.
• In rare cases, Lamisil has caused severe liver damage, sometimes resulting in liver transplant or death. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, unusual fatigue, loss of appetite, yellow skin or eyes, itching, dark urine, or clay colored stools. These symptoms may be early signs of liver damage.

What is Lamisil?

• Lamisil is an antifungal medication. It is like an antibiotic but is used to treat fungal infections.
• Lamisil is used to treat fungal infections of the fingernails and toenails.
• Lamisil may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Lamisil?

• Do not take Lamisil without first talking to your doctor if you have
  • ever had an allergic reaction to it,
  • liver disease,
  • kidney disease,
  • problems with your immune system, or
  • blood problems.
• You may not be able to take Lamisil, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you have any of the conditions listed above.
• Lamisil is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Do not take Lamisil without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
• Lamisil passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Lamisil?

• Take Lamisil exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
• Take all of the Lamisil that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. The symptoms may begin to improve before the infection is completely treated. It may take several months to cure a fingernail or toenail infection.
• Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

• Seek emergency medical attention.
• Symptoms of a Lamisil overdose are not well known but might include drowsiness, poor coordination, shortness of breath, abdominal pain, frequent urination, rash, and headache.

What should I avoid while taking Lamisil?

• Avoid alcohol or use it in moderation while taking Lamisil. Alcohol and Lamisil can both affect the liver.

What are the possible side effects of Lamisil?

• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Lamisil and seek emergency medical attention:
  • an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
  • a rash;
  • changes in vision; or
  • blood problems (detected by blood tests).
• In rare cases, Lamisil has caused severe liver damage, sometimes resulting in liver transplant or death. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, unusual fatigue, loss of appetite, yellow skin or eyes, itching, dark urine, or clay colored stools. These symptoms may be early signs of liver damage.
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Lamisil and talk to your doctor if you experience
  • nausea, upset stomach, or heartburn;
  • diarrhea or flatulence;
  • headache; or
  • taste disturbances or a loss of taste.
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Lamisil?

• Before taking Lamisil, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:
  • cimetidine (Tagamet, Tagamet HB).;
  • rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane); or
  • cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral).
• You may not be able to take Lamisil, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Lamisil. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.