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Lamisil Uses
Certain types of fungal infections can be treated with Lamisil. For example, the drug is approved to treat fingernail and toenail fungus, as well as tinea capitis (also called ringworm of the scalp). Off-label uses of Lamisil may include the treatment of other fungal infections.
Lamisil® (terbinafine hydrochloride) is a prescription medicine that has been licensed to treat several kinds of fungus. Lamisil tablets are approved to treat fingernail and toenail fungus, and Lamisil oral granules are approved to treat tinea capitis (sometimes known as ringworm of the scalp).
Nail fungus is caused by an infection and can lead to thick, brittle, and discolored nails. Unlike many other treatments for nail fungus, Lamisil is taken by mouth and works through the bloodstream. It kills or slows down the growth of the fungi that cause nail infections.
Lamisil will not improve the appearance of nails that are already infected -- improvement will be seen as the new nails grow out. It may take several months to see the improvement.
Tinea capitis is a common fungal infection that often affects children. This fungal infection causes red patches or rings on the scalp. Sometimes they are itchy, and sometimes the area may appear bald.
Antifungal creams or shampoos are sometimes used to treat the infection, although these can be messy and are not always effective. Unlike these types of treatments, Lamisil works through the bloodstream to kill the fungus.
Lamisil granules have been approved to treat tinea capitis in children as young as four years old. Lamisil tablets are not approved to treat toenail or fingernail fungus in children. You can discuss the risks and benefits of using Lamisil in children with your healthcare provider.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD