What It Is
Terbinafine belongs to a class of medicines called allylamine antifungals. It is available as tablets, creams, gels, and sprays.
What It's Used For
Terbinafine is generally used to treat fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails. These include ringworm, athlete's foot, jock itch, and fungal nail infections. Tablets are used for infections that are widespread or affect the nails, while creams are used for mild skin infections.
How It Works
Terbinafine blocks an enzyme called squalene epoxidase, which fungi need to make ergosterol, a key part of their cell membrane. Without it, the fungal cell membrane fails and the fungus is killed. Because it targets an enzyme specific to fungi, it is generally well tolerated by people.
History and Regulatory Status
Terbinafine was developed in the 1980s and came into medical use in the early 1990s. The tablets are a prescription medicine, while creams and sprays are available without a prescription in many countries. Reduced response to terbinafine in some ringworm infections has been increasingly reported in India, which makes it important to complete the full course prescribed by a doctor.