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Lamisil
Lamisil is commonly prescribed for the treatment of fingernail or toenail fungus, as well as ringworm of the scalp. The medication acts on certain types of fungus in the skin and nails to either kill them or slow down their growth. Lamisil is available in three strengths. Side effects of the drug include headache, diarrhea, or rash.
from eMedTV.comWhat Is Lamisil?
Lamisil® (terbinafine hydrochloride) is a prescription medication that is used to treat fingernail or toenail fungus. A new form of Lamisil (oral granules) has also been approved to treat a fungal infection called tinea capitis (also known as ringworm of the scalp).
(Click Lamisil Uses for more information on what it is used for, including possible off-label uses of this drug.)
Who Makes Lamisil?
It is manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals.
How Does It Work?
Nail fungus (known medically as onychomycosis) is an infection caused by certain types of fungi. As a result of this infection, fingernails and/or toenails can become thick, brittle, and discolored.
Lamisil comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth. After entering the blood, the medication slowly moves into the skin and nails. Here, it acts on certain types of fungi to either kill or slow down the growth of the fungus that is causing the infection.
It works similarly to treat tinea capitis (ringworm of the scalp). This problem is caused by a fungus, and Lamisil works by killing the fungus.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD