Certain types of fungal infections can be treated with Lamisil. Uses primarily include the treatment of fingernail and toenail fungus, as well as tinea capitis (also called ringworm of the scalp). Off-label Lamisil uses may include the treatment of other fungal infections.
Uses of Lamisil: An Overview
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).
Lamisil Uses for Nail Fungus
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.
Lamisil Uses for Tinea Capitis
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.
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