LAMISIL (TERBINAFINE)

Lamisil Description

Lamisil or generic Terbinafine is a popular prescription medication that is taken orally to kill fingernail and toenail fungal infections called onychomycosis. This fungus thrives on a rich blood supply in your nail bed beneath the protection of your nail and causes your nails to become discolored, brittle, and very unappealing to look at. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

The fungus looks for warm, moist areas to start growing and multiplying, and your toes are the ideal spot. A crack or small cut in your skin is all it takes. Without treatment, the fungus can spread to your other nails and cause discomfort as well as embarrassment. The treatment period can take as long as three months for toenail fungus and six weeks for fingernail fungus.

How Lamisil Interferes with Fungal Growth

Once taken as directed, Lamisil finds its way through your bloodstream and zeros in on the fungal cell membranes, which are essential for their survival. By interfering with the fungi’s ability to produce an important component of the cell membranes, called ergosterol, the stability of the cell membranes is impaired and holes begin to appear. This allows substances to leak out while other substances seep in and destroy the membranes so the fungi cannot multiply and they will die off. This is why it’s important to take Lamisil for the specified time recommended so the fungi will not start up again.

Risk Factors That Raise the Possibility of a Fungal Infection

There are fungi present in and on your body that co-exist with bacteria and do no harm for the most part. You don’t even know they are there, at least not until you have a scratch, scrape, or abrasion somewhere that allows these roommates to enter and begin reproducing. There are very few health conditions or diseases that affect our nails and fungal infections are the most common.

A manicure or pedicure at a salon that pays little attention to disinfecting their tools of the trade can spread fungal infections from one person to another. Jobs that involve long hours of wearing rubber boots or gloves provide the perfect damp, warm environment for fungi to settle into. Other risk factors for developing a fungal nail infection are; being diabetic, over 65 years old with poor circulation, wearing artificial nails, sustaining a nail injury, or a skin injury around the nail.

Before You Take Lamisil

Ask your doctor if it is harmful to take Lamisil while you are pregnant, become pregnant during treatment, or if you are nursing your baby. Discuss your medical history with your doctor and provide information on any OTC or Rx drugs you are taking, including herbal remedies and vitamin or dietary supplements. This can help determine if Lamisil is the right medication for you.

Lamisil Precautions and Proper Use

Lamisil may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so you should avoid tanning beds and use sunscreen that is at least an SPF30 or higher and protective clothing when you are outside. After your treatment time has been completed, it may still take several months for your nails to return to their usual appearance, so be patient. Avoid sharing foot wear, gloves or manicure tools with others until your infection has cleared.

Possible Side Effects of Lamisil

• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Changes in sense of taste or smell