Lamisil (terbinafine)

Lamisil (terbinafine) is an oral prescription medication used to treat onychomycosis (on-ee-ko-my-ko-sis). Onychomycosis is a live nail fungus (dermatophytes) that lives, feeds, and grows deep within the nail bed. This fungus is attracted to keratin, one of the substances in the nails and skin. Lamisil (terbinafine) works to adhere to keratin and attack the fungal infection.

Why Prescribed

Lamisil tablets are prescribed as a treatment for mild to severe nail fungus infection. Lamisil (terbinafine) travels to the infected area within the nail bed and continues to work for months, even after a prescription is finished.

FDA Approved Uses

Lamisil is approved by the FDA for the treatment of onychomycosis by inhibiting fungal and bacterial cell wall growth, causing the contents of the cell to be unprotected and eventually die.

Side Effects

The most common side effects associated with Lamisil are headache, rash, diarrhea, stomach upset, temporary change or loss of taste, and tiredness. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include itching, swelling, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing. Due to severe complications that can occur, Lamisil should never be taken by patients with liver or kidney problems.

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Warnings and Alerts

In April 2001, the FDA issued a public health advisory on the safety of terbinafine hydrochloride (Lamisil) tablets, based upon a study finding 16 possible Lamisil associated cases of liver failure, including 11 deaths and two liver transplant patients.

Drug Contraindications

Lamisil is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to terbinafine, and should not be taken by anyone who has problems with his or her liver or kidneys, or by pregnant or nursing women. Further, Lamisil has the potential to interact dangerously with other drugs, including some commonly prescribed antidepressants, beta-blockers, and antiarrhythmics.

FAQ's

What is Onychomycosis?

Onychomycosis is an invasive infection of the nail caused by dermatophytes--fungi like Tricophyton rubrum and Tricophyton mentagrophytes, that aggressively discolors, thickens, and destroys the nail plate. Because the fungus infects the area underneath the nail and in the place where the nail forms, it can be very stubborn and difficult to treat. The infection may cause the nail to turn colors like white, yellow or brown, and become thick and brittle. Additionally, it may be painful for some people. An estimated 10 million individuals in the continental United States suffer from onychomycosis.

People who work with their hands or on their feet, or those who are frequently exposed to detergents, perspiration, and water, are at high risk for contracting onychomycosis. Nail fungal infections are prevalent among the elderly, athletes, military personnel, and laborers, and may be more severe in immune-compromised patients, particularly those with HIV.

What are the symptoms/signs of liver disease?

Symptoms of liver disease include:

• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Jaundice
• Abdominal pain and tenderness
• Fever
• Ascites (fluid collection in the abdomen)
• Unintentional weight gain (because of fluid collection)
• Mental confusion
• Excessive thirst
• Dry mouth
• Fatigue

If I purchased prescription drugs from another country, what legal recourse do I have in the U.S.?

Your legal rights in connection with drugs purchased from foreign countries may differ greatly from those rights you would have had you purchased the drugs from the U.S. market.

Who is liable for harm suffered from prescription drugs?

Depending on the facts of your individual case, liable parties can range from the drug manufacturer, to your treating physician, to the pharmacy that distributes the medication.

Can I file a legal claim if I have suffered injuries from using Lamisil?

If you or a loved one has experienced any health problems after taking Lamisil, particularly liver and/or kidney complications, you should contact your physician immediately. You may also wish to investigate your right to file suit against the manufacturer of this medication by contacting a qualified drug litigation attorney who is knowledgeable in this area of law.