Lamisil AT Spray is an antifungal medicine that you apply directly to your skin. The active ingredient in Lamisil AT Spray is terbinafine hydrochloride, which works to kill the fungi that cause several common skin infections.
This article will give you a complete guide to Lamisil AT Spray, explaining what it is used for, how to use it, and what precautions you should take before using this medication.
Lamisil AT Spray is used to treat:
- athlete’s foot (tinea pedis)
- jock itch (tinea cruris)
- ringworm (tinea corporis)
How does it work?
The active ingredient in Lamisil spray is terbinafine hydrochloride, an antifungal medicine that works on a broad spectrum of fungi.
Terbinafine stops fungi from creating sterols, an important part of fungal cell development and survival.
More specifically, terbinafine blocks an enzyme called squalene epoxidase. This enzyme is needed to create ergosterol, a key building block for fungal cell membranes.
Each gram of Lamisil spray solution contains 10 mg of terbinafine hydrochloride.
What is Lamisil Spray used for?
Lamisil Spray is an antifungal medicine indicated for the topical treatment of:
- Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis)
- Jock itch (tinea cruris)
- Ringworm (tinea corporis)
- Pityriasis versicolor
To use Lamisil Spray, clean and dry the affected skin. Then, spray a thin layer of the medicine over the skin. Use only on the skin. Do not swallow or apply near the eyes.
Dosage and Administration
Here’s how to use Lamisil spray if you’re an adult or a child aged 12 or older:
- First, wash and completely dry the area you want to treat.
- Then, apply the spray according to the infection you’re treating:
- Athlete’s foot: Twice daily
- Jock itch or ringworm: Once daily
- Pityriasis versicolor: Twice daily
- Continue treatment for up to a week, or as directed by your doctor.
A few other tips:
- Always wash your hands after using Lamisil.
- If you’re treating athlete’s foot, wear shoes that fit well and allow your feet to breathe. Change your shoes and socks every day, and consider ways to kill shoe fungus.
- If you don’t see any improvement after a week, talk to your doctor about the diagnosis.
Warnings, precautions, and contraindications
Warnings and Precautions
Be sure to follow these guidelines for using Lamisil spray.
- For external use only. Do not use Lamisil on nails, scalp, in or near the mouth or eyes, or for vaginal yeast infections. If you accidentally get Lamisil spray in your eyes, rinse them thoroughly with water.
- When to consult a doctor. Children under 12 years of age should consult a doctor before using Lamisil. Stop using Lamisil and ask a doctor if irritation occurs or symptoms worsen. Also, seek medical attention if your symptoms persist or worsen.
- Damaged skin. Use caution if you’re applying Lamisil to damaged skin because of its alcohol content.
Contraindications
Do not use Lamisil if you know you’re allergic or sensitive to terbinafine or any of the other ingredients in the spray. It’s important to research Fungicure spray ingredients as well to avoid allergic reactions.
Special populations, pregnancy, and breastfeeding
Here are some things to keep in mind if you fall into one of these special populations:
- Elderly: Dosage and side effects are the same in the elderly as they are in younger adults.
- Children: Because there’s not much research on how Lamisil spray affects children, you’ll want to talk with your doctor before giving it to a child under 12.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you’re pregnant, only use Lamisil spray if you really need to. While only small amounts of terbinafine pass into breast milk, talk to your doctor if you’re breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Lamisil spray work for toenail fungus?
While Lamisil spray is effective for treating athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), ringworm (tinea corporis), and jock itch (tinea cruris), it’s generally not the preferred treatment for toenail fungus (onychomycosis), and neither is Fungicure Intensive Spray. Toenail fungus is often deep-seated and requires oral medication or topical solutions specifically formulated to penetrate the nail.
Is Lamisil stronger than Clotrimazole?
Lamisil (terbinafine) and Clotrimazole are both antifungals, but they work differently. Lamisil tends to be more effective against a broader spectrum of fungi and often requires a shorter treatment duration compared to Clotrimazole. However, the best choice depends on the type and severity of the fungal infection, so consult with a healthcare professional.
Which spray is best for fungal infection?
The “best” spray depends on the specific type of fungal infection you’re treating. For common skin infections like athlete’s foot or ringworm, both Lamisil spray (terbinafine) and other antifungal sprays containing ingredients like clotrimazole or miconazole can be effective. Always read the product label and consult a doctor if you’re unsure.
What part of the body has the highest percentage of fungal infections?
The feet are particularly susceptible to fungal infections, making athlete’s foot very common. This is because feet are often confined in shoes, creating a warm, moist environment that encourages fungal growth. Other areas prone to fungal infections include the groin (jock itch) and skin folds.
When should you not use Lamisil?
You should avoid using Lamisil if you’re allergic to terbinafine or any of the other ingredients in the product. It’s also important to consult your doctor before using Lamisil if you have liver problems, kidney problems, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. Lamisil is for external use only, avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
The Bottom Line
Lamisil AT Spray is an effective topical treatment for common fungal skin infections. Follow the directions carefully, and talk to your doctor if you have any questions. Using it the right way and sticking to the treatment plan is key to getting the best results.