Side Effects of Terbinafine (Cont.)

Common Side Effects of Terbinafine

Terbinafine has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials, with many people having been evaluated. In these studies, side effects occurring in the group of people taking the drug are always documented and compared to the side effects that occurred in a similar group of people not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
Based on these studies, the most common side effects of terbinafine include:
 
  • Headache -- in up to 12.9 percent of people
  • Diarrhea -- up to 5.6 percent
  • Unexplained rash -- up to 5.6 percent
  • Heartburn or indigestion (dyspepsia) -- up to 4.3 percent
  • Increased liver enzymes (found using a blood test) -- up to 3.3 percent
  • Itching -- up to 2.8 percent
  • Changes in taste -- up to 2.8 percent
  • Pain in the abdomen (stomach) -- up to 2.1 percent
  • Hives -- up to 1.1 percent. 

 

Rare Side Effects With Terbinafine

Rare side effects of terbinafine have occurred in only a few people taking the drug. Because these side effects are so uncommon, it is difficult to tell whether they are actually caused by terbinafine or something else.
 
Some of these rare side effects include but are not limited to:
 
  • Liver problems, including liver failure
  • Serious skin reaction
  • Low blood counts (including neutropenia and thrombocytopenia)
  • Allergic reactions, including swelling of the mouth or throat
  • Worsening of psoriasis (a skin condition)
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus for short)
  • Tiredness
  • Vomiting
  • Joint or muscle pain
  • Hair loss.
     
(Side Effects of Terbinafine Continued: Page 3)

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;