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Brand Name :
Lamisil AT topical
Synonyms :
terbinafine topical
Class :
Antifungals, Topicals
Dosage forms and strengths
(cream/topical solution)
Apply 1%
Apply twice daily to the affected area until there is a substantial clinical improvement, but not exceeding a duration of 4 weeks
Apply once daily for a duration of one week, not exceeding four weeks
Apply once daily for a duration of one week, not exceeding four weeks
The use of this medication in pediatrics is not approved by the FDA
Refer adult dosing
Actions and Spectrum
Action:
The drug works by inhibiting the synthesis of an essential component of fungal cell membranes called ergosterol.
Ergosterol is necessary for maintaining the integrity and function of fungal cell membranes. By blocking its synthesis, terbinafine disrupts the fungal cell membrane, leading to cell death and subsequent elimination of the fungal infection.
Spectrum:
terbinafine topical is primarily effective against dermatophytes, which are a group of fungi responsible for causing most fungal skin infections. The spectrum of terbinafine includes various species of dermatophytes, such as Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton. These fungi commonly infect the skin, hair, and nails.
Frequency defined
1-10%
Stinging
Contact dermatitis
Dryness
Exfoliation
Irritation
Pruritus
Rash
Burning
Irritation
Black Box Warning:
None
Contraindication/Caution:
Allergy or hypersensitivity: Individuals with a known hypersensitivity or allergy to this drug or any of the other ingredients in the formulation should not use terbinafine topical.
Liver disease: The drug is primarily metabolized in the liver, so individuals with existing liver disease or impaired liver function should use terbinafine topical with caution. The systemic absorption of the medication may be higher in these individuals, leading to a higher risk of adverse effects.
Children: It is generally not advised to use this medication due to limited safety and efficacy data available specifically for this age group.
Open wounds or broken skin: The drug should not be applied to open wounds, cuts, or broken skin. It is intended for use on intact skin only.
Interactions with other medications: The drug may interact with certain medications, including oral antifungals and other topical medications.
Pregnancy warnings:
Pregnancy category: B
Lactation: Excreted into human milk in minor amounts
Pregnancy Categories:
Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester.
Category B: There were a lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal experiments.
Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.
Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.
Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.
Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category
Pharmacology:
terbinafine is an antifungal medication commonly used topically to treat fungal infections of the skin, such as athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), and ringworm (tinea corporis).
Pharmacodynamics:
The drug belongs to a class of antifungal drugs known as allylamines. It exerts its antifungal activity by inhibiting the enzyme squalene epoxidase, which is essential for the synthesis of ergosterol, a key component of fungal cell membranes. By blocking the production of ergosterol, terbinafine disrupts the integrity and function of the fungal cell membrane, leading to fungal cell death.
Pharmacokinetics:
Absorption
The drug is generally well-absorbed through the skin when applied topically. However, the extent of absorption may vary depending on factors such as the formulation, skin condition, and application site. It is known to penetrate the stratum corneum (outermost layer of the skin) effectively, allowing it to reach the site of action.
Distribution
The drug can be distributed throughout the affected area. Its distribution beyond the skin is minimal since it is primarily intended for local action. Limited systemic absorption reduces the potential for significant distribution to other body tissues.
Metabolism
The drug undergoes extensive metabolism in the liver. The primary metabolic pathway involves cytochrome P450 enzymes, particularly CYP2C9 and CYP3A4. These enzymes convert terbinafine into several metabolites, including the major active metabolite known as desethyl-terbinafine.
Excretion and elimination
Metabolized terbinafine and its metabolites are primarily eliminated through the kidneys. The elimination half-life of terbinafine is approximately 17 to 21 hours.
Administration:
Instructions for application: Apply a thin layer of terbinafine cream or gel to the affected area and the surrounding skin.
Application frequency: Generally, the medication is applied once or twice daily, as advised by your healthcare provider or indicated on the product label.
Patient information leaflet
Generic Name: terbinafine topical
Why do we use terbinafine topical?
Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis): To alleviate symptoms commonly associated with athlete’s foot, such as itching, burning, and scaling, one can directly apply terbinafine cream or gel to the affected area. This topical treatment provides relief and helps address the discomfort caused by the fungal infection.
Jock Itch (Tinea Cruris): The drug preparations can also be used to treat jock itch,It helps alleviate itching, redness, and irritation.
Ringworm (Tinea Corporis): To effectively treat the infection, applying terbinafine cream or gel directly to the affected area is recommended. This treatment helps eliminate the fungal infection and promote healing.
Fungal Nail Infections (Onychomycosis): terbinafine is available as a nail lacquer that can be applied directly to the infected toenails or fingernails to treat fungal nail infections. It helps to improve the appearance and condition of the affected nails.
Tinea Versicolor: terbinafine cream or gel can also be used to treat tinea versicolor, a fungal infection that causes discolored patches on the skin.