Terbinafine Tablets: What They Are and How They Work

Fungal infections are among the most common skin and nail conditions that people experience, causing frustration, itchiness, and chronic symptoms if left untreated. Its treatment typically consists of antifungal medications.

One of the most widely prescribed under this is tablet terbinafine, a tried-and-true medication that works for different kinds of fungal infections.

This article will take you through the uses, dosage, price, side effects, and precautions of terbinafine tablets, along with some common uses, such as combination with itraconazole, pediatric dosing, and other types of formulations, such as terbinafine syrup.

Terbinafine tablets are antifungal medicines that belong to the family of antifungal agents called allylamines. They have a simple mechanism and work by disrupting the fungal cell membrane, which stops the growth and spread of the fungal infection.

Common conditions that terbinafine tablets can treat include:

• Onychomycosis (nail fungus): Effective for clearing fungal infections in your toenails or fingernails.
• Tinea: Ringworm (tinea corporis), jock itch (tinea cruris), and athlete’s foot (tinea pedis).
• Scalp fungal infections: Tinea capitis, particularly in children.
• Yeasts: In some cases, terbinafine can be used against yeast species that are sensitive to its mechanism.

The standard prescription for adults for the terbinafine tablet IP is 250 mg once daily. However, the exact dosage is determined by the infection type, patient condition, health history information, and the doctor's order.

• Terbinafine 250 mg tablets (IP): Most commonly prescribed for skin or nail infections.
• Terbinafine 500 mg: Sometimes prescribed for severe or resistant infections.
• Terbinafine hydrochloride tablets IP 250 mg, 500 mg: Available with different brands throughout India.

• Terbinafine can be taken with or without food; however, taking it after eating your food reduces the chances of getting an upset stomach.

• It should be consumed whole, with water. Don’t crush or chew, or take it with any other medication without consulting your doctor.

• Take at the same time each day, for best results.

• If you miss a dose, then take it as soon as you remember. If it is too close to your next scheduled dose, miss it and do not double dose.

Terbinafine Combination Therapy: When Itraconazole or Other Antifungals are Used Together

In cases of particularly stubborn infections, your doctor may prescribe a combination of itraconazole and terbinafine tablets. This covers a broader range of fungi and enhances the rate of recovery.

The price of terbinafine tablets in India varies based on the dosage, brand, and pack size.

• Tab terbinafine 250 mg: ₹70–₹150 per strip of 7–10 tablets.
• Terbinafine 500 mg tablet: between ₹150–₹300 per strip.

The prices of branded and generic products differ, but both of them have the same active ingredient. Ensure that you check reliable pharmacies or online stores for updates to the price of terbinafine tablets.

Terbinafine Dose Per Kg: Pediatric and Bodyweight Considerations

For kids, the dosing depends on the body weight (mg/kg):

• <20 kg: 62.5 mg, once daily
• 20 to 40 kg: 125 mg, once daily

• 40 kg: 250 mg, once daily

Doctors will carefully adjust the dose for kids, especially if they have scalp fungal infections.

Just like with any other medicines prescribed by doctors, terbinafine tablets can have side effects too, and while most effects are mild, severe reactions can occur in rare instances.

Common Side Effects:

• Gastrointestinal issues, diarrhoea, lack of appetite
• Headaches and dizziness
• Rash or mild itching

Serious But Rare Effects:

• Hepatic problems like jaundice, dark urine, and severe fatigue
• Serious allergic reactions
• Loss of taste

• Alcohol is to be avoided if you’re taking terbafine as it can increase the risk of liver damage.

• Make sure to inform your doctor of any existing hepatic or renal diseases.

• Terbinafine may interact negatively with antidepressants, anticoagulants such as warfarin, and beta-blockers.

• It’s not usually recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women unless prescribed by your doctor.

Terbinafine syrup can be prescribed for children or patients who may not easily be able to swallow a tablet, whereas mild infections are usually treated with topical creams or sprays.

Terbinafine tablet is a potent, effective antifungal medicine that’s commonly prescribed in India for skin, nail, and scalp infections. These tablets are available in 250 mg and 500 mg formats, and help cure the fungal infection when taken as prescribed with medical advice.

These tablets are generally safe; you just need to follow the dosage, be aware of side effects, drug interactions, and monitor your liver health. Do not self-medicate, and always take your doctor's advice.

Terbinafine, if used properly, can provide you with long-term relief from your fungal infection safely and effectively.

Q. What are tablet terbinafine 250 mg and 500 mg used for?

A. They treat fungal infections of the skin, nails, and scalp.

Q. How should I take terbinafine tablets—before or after food?

A. You can take them with or without food, but after meals is easier on the stomach.

Q. How long does it take for terbinafine tablets to work?

A. Skin infections generally clear in 2–6 weeks, while nail infections can take 6–12 weeks or longer. The time can vary depending on your body, the severity of infection, and other factors.

Q. What is the usual dosage for terbinafine 250 mg and 500 mg tablets?

A. Adults usually take a terbinafine tablet IP 250 mg once daily; higher doses are prescribed only when necessary.

Q. Can terbinafine tablets be taken twice daily or in higher doses?

A. Yes, in resistant cases, some doctors prescribe terbinafine 250 mg twice daily, but you need to monitor the doses carefully.

Q. What are the most common side effects of terbinafine tablets?

A. Stomach upset, headache, rash, and mild itching are common. In rare cases, you may also experience hepatic problems, loss of taste, or an allergic reaction.

Q. Are long-term side effects possible with terbinafine?

A. In rare cases, prolonged use can cause liver damage or taste disturbances. As such, regular check-ups are recommended and crucial. You should also inform your doctor about any issues immediately.

Q. What should I do if I miss a dose of terbinafine?

A. Take it as soon as you remember. Skip it it’s almost time for your next dose, never double up.