Terbinafine Cream Brand Name: What You Need To Know?

Fungal infections are incredibly common, and they can show up just about anywhere on your body. From athlete’s foot to ringworm, these infections can be itchy, uncomfortable, and sometimes even a little embarrassing.

Fortunately, there are many effective treatments available, and one of the most popular is terbinafine cream. Terbinafine is an antifungal medication that stops the growth of fungus. You can find it in different forms like creams, gels, and sprays, all designed to tackle those pesky fungal infections right where they live.

This article will give you a complete overview of terbinafine cream, including what it’s used for, how to use it, and what to watch out for. We’ll also touch on some important precautions and potential side effects to help you make informed decisions about your treatment. We’ll also cover the terbinafine cream brand name that you may be familiar with.

What is Terbinafine and How Does it Work?

Terbinafine is an antifungal medication that treats fungal infections of the skin. You can buy some brands over the counter, but others require a prescription from a healthcare professional.

Terbinafine is available in several forms:

  • Creams
  • Gels
  • Sprays

Your doctor will prescribe or recommend the best form for your particular fungal infection.

How it works

Terbinafine is an allylamine, one of a class of antifungal medications. It stops fungi from creating ergosterol, which is a key part of their cell membranes.

Without ergosterol, the fungi’s cell membranes weaken, and the fungal cells die. Terbinafine is effective against a variety of fungi that cause skin infections, such as athlete’s foot, ringworm, and jock itch.

What is terbinafine cream used for?

Terbinafine cream is an antifungal medication. It’s used to treat skin infections caused by fungus.

Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s Foot)

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that develops on the feet. Symptoms include:

  • Itching
  • Burning
  • Scaling between the toes

Terbinafine cream is effective at clearing up athlete’s foot. Use it once or twice a day, following the directions on the package or from your doctor. You may need to use it for up to 4 weeks to get rid of the infection.

Tinea Corporis & Cruris (Ringworm & Jock Itch)

Ringworm is a fungal infection that causes a circular, red, raised, itchy rash. Jock itch is a fungal infection that causes an itchy, red rash in the groin area.

Terbinafine cream is effective at treating ringworm and jock itch. Use it once or twice a day, following the directions on the package or from your doctor. You may need to use it for up to 4 weeks to get rid of the infection.

Other Fungal Infections

Terbinafine cream may also be used for:

  • Pityriasis or Tinea Versicolor, which causes discolored patches on the skin
  • Cutaneous Candidiasis, a fungal infection caused by Candida yeast

How to use terbinafine cream

Here’s how to properly apply terbinafine cream to get the best results. These instructions apply whether you’re using the brand-name or generic version.

  1. First, prep the area. Make sure the skin is clean and dry before you put on the cream.
  2. Apply a thin layer. Gently rub a thin layer of the cream onto the affected area and the skin right around it.
  3. Wash your hands. Lather up after you’re done, unless you’re treating a fungal infection on your hands.
  4. Keep using it. Even if your symptoms improve, keep using the cream for as long as your doctor tells you to. If your symptoms get worse or don’t get better, call your doctor.

Finally, a couple of reminders:

  • Don’t use more cream than your doctor recommends, and don’t use it for longer than you’re supposed to.
  • Unless your doctor tells you to, don’t bandage or wrap the treated area.

Before you use terbinafine cream

Before you start using terbinafine cream, tell your doctor about any health conditions you have.

Allergies

It’s important to let your doctor know if you have allergies, especially to terbinafine or other antifungal medications. Allergic reactions can sometimes be serious.

Drug interactions

Some medications can interfere with terbinafine, making it less effective or increasing the risk of side effects. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.

Other health conditions

Certain health conditions can affect how your body responds to terbinafine. Tell your doctor about any medical conditions you have.

When not to use terbinafine cream

There are some situations in which you should not use terbinafine cream:

  • If you are allergic to terbinafine or any of the ingredients in the cream.
  • If you have severe liver disease.

Cautions

Here are some things to keep in mind when using terbinafine cream:

  • Avoid getting the cream in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
  • Only use terbinafine cream on your skin.
  • Do not use it on your scalp, near your eyes or mouth, or in your vagina.

Potential Side Effects

Like all medications, antifungal creams such as terbinafine can cause side effects. Most are mild, but it’s important to be aware of the possibilities.

Common Side Effects

You might experience one or more of these common side effects where you applied the cream:

  • Burning or stinging
  • Itching
  • Redness
  • Dryness
  • Rash

These symptoms are often mild and go away on their own as your skin adjusts to the medication.

Rare Side Effects

Although rare, more serious side effects can occur. These include:

  • Allergic reactions, with symptoms such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Severe skin irritation at the application site.

If you experience any severe side effects, stop using the cream immediately and contact your doctor. It could be a sign of a serious allergic reaction.

Terbinafine cream and special populations

If you’re considering using terbinafine cream, keep in mind that some people need to be extra careful.

Pediatric use

It’s important to use terbinafine cream with caution in children under 12. So far, the studies have focused on adults. If you’re considering this medicine for a child, it’s important to talk to a doctor first.

Geriatric use

As with children, older people may need to be extra cautious when using terbinafine. A lot of medicines haven’t been studied specifically in older people. If you’re an older adult, it’s important to talk to a doctor about the risks and benefits.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

If you’re pregnant, terbinafine should only be used if it’s truly necessary. Animal studies haven’t shown any serious risks, but the human studies are limited.

If you’re breastfeeding, make sure to talk to a doctor before using terbinafine cream. There haven’t been enough studies on women to know if it’s safe for the baby.

When it comes to any medication, it’s always a good idea to be cautious and talk to a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Brand names and storage

Brand names

In the U.S., you can find terbinafine cream under the brand name Lamisil AT. You can also read Lamisil Cream reviews from users to learn more about its effectiveness against athlete’s foot.

In Canada, one brand name is Lamisil.

Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you about other over-the-counter and prescription brands of terbinafine cream.

Storage

Be sure to store terbinafine cream at room temperature and protect it from heat and moisture. Keep it where children can’t reach it, and don’t poke holes in the tube or expose it to high heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is clotrimazole cream better than terbinafine cream?

Whether clotrimazole or terbinafine is “better” depends on the specific fungal infection. For example, Ketoconazole Cream might be more suited for some conditions. Terbinafine is often more effective against certain dermatophytes (the fungi causing ringworm, athlete’s foot, and jock itch), while clotrimazole may be preferred for yeast infections. Consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment recommendation.

What is a stronger antifungal than terbinafine?

For severe or resistant fungal infections, oral antifungals like itraconazole or fluconazole might be prescribed. If you’re considering this option, it’s important to compare Itraconazole Cream prices to buy smart. These are generally considered stronger than topical terbinafine but also come with a higher risk of side effects. Again, it’s crucial to discuss treatment options with a healthcare professional.

Is terbinafine 1% cream over the counter?

Yes, terbinafine 1% cream is available over the counter under various brand names for treating athlete’s foot, ringworm, and jock itch. However, if your symptoms don’t improve within a few weeks, or if the infection is severe, consult a doctor.

What is another name for terbinafine cream?

Terbinafine cream is sold under various brand names, including Lamisil AT. Generic versions of terbinafine cream are also widely available.

What kills jock itch fast?

While there isn’t a guaranteed “fast” cure, terbinafine cream (or other antifungal creams like clotrimazole) can effectively treat jock itch. Keeping the area clean and dry, wearing loose-fitting clothing, and avoiding irritants are also important. See a doctor if the infection doesn’t improve within a couple of weeks.

Putting It All Together

Terbinafine cream is a topical antifungal medication that works well for many common skin infections. If you think you have a fungal infection, it’s a good idea to talk with a healthcare professional about whether terbinafine cream is right for you and which brand or generic is the best choice.