How to Take Lamisil: Side Effects, Dosage

Lamisil (terbinafine) dosing instructions, common side effects, and when to contact your prescriber. Based on FDA-approved prescribing information and OTC labeling.

Not medical advice. Speak with a healthcare professional before using any medication.

Reviewed by:

Hazar Metayer

PharmD

LinkedIn

Updated Feb, 15

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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Voshell's Pharmacy does not diagnose conditions or determine treatment plans. Patients should consult their licensed prescriber regarding therapy decisions. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved and prepared only pursuant to a valid prescription.

Information sourced from FDA-approved prescribing information and peer-reviewed medical references.

How to Take Lamisil

 

How to Take Lamisil (Terbinafine) Oral Tablets

 

Per FDA-approved prescribing information, oral Lamisil tablets are a prescription antifungal. Use them exactly as directed by your prescriber.

  • Per FDA-approved prescribing information, standard adult dose: 250 mg once daily.
  • Per FDA-approved prescribing information, how to take it: swallow the tablet whole with water. May be taken with or without food.
  • Per FDA-approved prescribing information, timing: take at the same time each day to maintain steady levels.
  • Per FDA-approved prescribing information, treatment length: fingernail infections typically require about 6 weeks; toenail infections about 12 weeks, as directed by your clinician.
  • Per FDA-approved prescribing information, missed dose: take it when you remember unless it is close to the next dose. Do not double up.
  • Per FDA-approved prescribing information, children: oral Lamisil is generally used only in adults unless prescribed by a pediatric specialist.

 

How to Use Lamisil Topical (Cream, Gel, or Spray)

 

Per OTC labeling, topical terbinafine is applied directly to the affected skin.

  • Per OTC labeling, clean and dry the area before applying.
  • Per OTC labeling, apply a thin layer once or twice daily as directed, covering the affected skin and approximately 1 inch of surrounding area.
  • Per OTC labeling, wash hands after applying unless treating your hands.
  • Per OTC labeling, typical duration: 1 to 2 weeks, as directed by product instructions.
  • Per OTC labeling, children: most OTC topical products are for age 12 and up.

 

Consistency Matters

 

Per prescribing information, use Lamisil daily for the full recommended course, even if the skin looks better sooner, to ensure the fungus is fully cleared.

 

Warnings Before Taking Lamisil

 

  • Per FDA-approved prescribing information: avoid if allergic to terbinafine.

  • Per FDA-approved prescribing information: tell your doctor about liver or kidney disease.

  • Per FDA-approved prescribing information: discuss all medicines you take to avoid drug interactions.

  • Per FDA-approved prescribing information: if pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss use with your clinician before starting treatment.

Lamisil Side Effects

Common

Mild

 

Nausea

 

Per FDA-approved prescribing information, some people feel mildly sick to their stomach when starting oral Lamisil.

Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.

Normally lasts for:

2–6 hours

Common

Mild

 

Headache

 

Per FDA-approved prescribing information, headaches can occur with Lamisil use.

Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.

Normally lasts for:

1–4 hours

Uncommon

Moderate

 

Changes in Taste

 

Per FDA-approved prescribing information, Lamisil may cause a reduced or altered sense of taste. This effect may resolve after the medication is stopped, but in some cases it may persist.

Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.

Normally lasts for:

A few hours to 1 day

Common

Mild

 

Diarrhea

 

Per FDA-approved prescribing information, Lamisil can sometimes cause loose stools or diarrhea.

Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.

Normally lasts for:

4–12 hours

Uncommon

Mild

 

Rash

 

Per FDA-approved prescribing information, a skin rash may develop in some individuals. Discontinue use and contact your prescriber if a rash occurs.

Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.

Normally lasts for:

6–24 hours

Rare

Serious

 

Elevated Liver Enzymes

 

Per FDA-approved prescribing information, Lamisil can occasionally cause a rise in liver enzyme levels. Your clinician may recommend periodic blood tests to monitor liver function during treatment.

Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.

Normally lasts for:

Several days to 1–2 weeks

Contact Us for a Personalized Care Plan

Have questions about compounding? Contact Voshell's Pharmacy — we prepare patient-specific medications pursuant to valid prescriptions from your licensed prescriber.

What If You Forgot to Take Lamisil

 

If You Forgot to Take Lamisil

 

Per FDA-approved prescribing information, if you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. Do not double up to make up for a forgotten tablet.

What If You Took Too Much Lamisil

 

What If You Took Too Much Lamisil?

 

  • Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 immediately for guidance on next steps.

  • Per FDA-approved prescribing information, Lamisil overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness, rash, and frequent urination. If symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

How Much Does Lamisil Cost

 

Lamisil Cost With Insurance

 

With most U.S. insurance plans, prescription terbinafine is typically covered as a generic. Copay amounts vary by plan, pharmacy, and formulary tier. Some plans may require prior authorization. Pricing information is not a guarantee of cost; contact your insurer or pharmacy for current pricing.

How Much Does Lamisil Cost without Insurance

 

Cost of Lamisil Without Insurance

 

Generic terbinafine tablets are available at many pharmacies at lower cost than brand-name Lamisil. Topical Lamisil products are available over the counter. Prices vary by pharmacy, formulation, and quantity. Pricing information is not a guarantee of cost; contact your pharmacy for current out-of-pocket pricing.