Terbinafine is a common antifungal medication prescribed for fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot and, notoriously, nail infections. One brand name of Terbinafine is Emoninail.
As with all medications, there’s a chance you might experience side effects while taking Terbinafine. Many of these side effects are mild and will go away on their own, but some can be serious.
This article explores the possible emoninail side effects, how to manage them, and when to seek medical attention.
Common Side Effects of Terbinafine
Like any medication, terbinafine can cause side effects. Here’s what to watch out for:
Skin Reactions
Topical terbinafine (that’s the cream, gel, spray, or solution) can often cause peeling or itchy skin. If that happens, wear loose, non-irritating clothes. Pat your skin instead of scratching it.
A rash can happen with both topical and oral terbinafine. If the rash is severe or if you have other symptoms with it, see a doctor right away.
Gastrointestinal Issues
Terbinafine can cause diarrhea. If that happens, be sure to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Nausea and vomiting are also possible. If you’re feeling sick to your stomach, avoid rich or spicy foods and eat smaller meals more often.
You might also get a stomach ache or indigestion. Eating and drinking slowly can help. Also, try not to eat for 3 to 4 hours before you go to bed. If you have indigestion at night, prop up your head and shoulders in bed.
Other Common Side Effects
Here are some other side effects that can happen when you take terbinafine:
- Headache: Rest, drink fluids, and don’t drink alcohol.
- Loss of appetite and taste changes: Eat whatever foods you enjoy.
- Muscle and joint pain
- Dizziness: Stop what you’re doing and rest.
- Eyesight problems
Serious side effects of terbinafine
While many side effects of terbinafine are mild and temporary, some can be quite serious. If you experience any of the following, seek medical attention right away.
Liver problems
Terbinafine can sometimes cause liver damage. Signs of liver problems include:
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine
If you notice either of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Allergic reactions (anaphylaxis)
Although rare, terbinafine can cause a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- Difficulty breathing
- Throat tightness
- Bluish or pale skin
- Confusion, dizziness, or loss of consciousness
Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency. If you experience any of these symptoms, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
Blood disorders
Terbinafine can sometimes affect blood cell production. Signs of a blood disorder include:
- Easy bruising
- Frequent infections
- High fever with rash
If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your doctor promptly for evaluation.
Other serious side effects
Other serious, though less common, side effects of terbinafine include:
- Severe stomach pain
- Muscle weakness
- Vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels)
- Acute pancreatitis
If you experience any new or worsening symptoms while taking terbinafine, it’s always best to consult with your doctor or pharmacist.
How to manage terbinafine side effects
Terbinafine is an antifungal medicine used to treat nail infections. Like all medicines, it can cause unwanted side effects. Other medications, like Itraconazole 100mg Capsules, can also be used to fight fungal infections.
The good news is that most people who take terbinafine have no side effects or only mild ones.
General strategies
Reading the patient leaflet that comes with your medicine is always a smart first step. That leaflet contains a complete list of potential side effects and instructions for how to manage them.
Making some lifestyle adjustments may also help you manage side effects:
- Adjust your diet.
- Get enough rest.
- Stay hydrated.
Over-the-counter medicines
For some side effects, over-the-counter medicines may help:
- Antihistamines may relieve skin reactions.
- Painkillers may ease headaches and muscle pain.
- Antacids may help with indigestion.
It’s always a good idea to check with a pharmacist before taking any new medicine, including over-the-counter medications.
When to seek medical advice
Some side effects are serious enough to warrant a call or visit to your doctor. You should seek medical advice if you experience:
- severe or persistent symptoms
- signs of liver problems, such as yellowing of the eyes or skin
- symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing
- any vision problems
Long-Term Use and Potential Risks
Like any medication, emoninail has the potential for side effects, especially with long-term use. While most people tolerate it well, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks. Fortunately, severe adverse effects are rare.
One potential concern with prolonged emoninail use is its impact on liver function. Although it’s not common (occurring in less than 1 in 1,000 people), the medication could affect the liver in some cases. Because of this possibility, your doctor may want to monitor your liver function with regular blood tests, especially if you have pre-existing liver conditions or are taking other medications that affect the liver.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does emoninail cure toenail fungus?
Emoninail, like other topical treatments for toenail fungus, aims to eliminate the infection. For more information, explore Jublia Fingernail Fungus Treatment: Success, Safety & More. However, success rates can vary depending on the severity of the infection and how consistently the treatment is applied. It’s crucial to follow the directions carefully for the best chance of a cure.
What are the side effects of topical nail fungus treatment?
Common side effects of topical nail fungus treatments can include skin irritation around the nail, redness, itching, burning sensations, and sometimes blistering. More severe reactions are possible but less common. If you experience significant discomfort, discontinue use and consult with a doctor.
What does Mayo Clinic recommend for toenail fungus?
The Mayo Clinic generally recommends a combination of approaches for treating toenail fungus, including prescription oral medications, topical antifungal treatments, and sometimes nail removal. They emphasize the importance of consulting with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on individual circumstances.
What is the safest nail fungus treatment?
The “safest” treatment depends on individual health factors and potential drug interactions. Topical treatments are often considered safer than oral medications because they have fewer systemic side effects. Considerations are especially important during certain times, such as with Nail Fungus During Pregnancy: Safe Treatments & Prevention. However, they may be less effective for severe infections. Always discuss your medical history with your doctor to determine the safest option for you.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
Cutting off your toenail yourself is generally not recommended due to the risk of infection and improper healing. In some cases, a doctor may recommend surgical nail removal as part of the treatment plan, particularly for severe infections or when other treatments have failed. This should only be done by a qualified medical professional.
In Closing
Being aware of the potential side effects of Terbinafine (Emoninail) is essential. While some side effects are common and relatively mild, others can be serious. It’s important to know the difference.
If you experience any serious side effects, seek medical attention immediately. Don’t wait for them to get better on their own.
If you have any questions or concerns about Emoninail or its side effects, talk to your doctor or other healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and guidance.