Lamisil

 
What is Lamisil and why is it prescribed?
Lamisil fights fungal infections. In tablet form, it's used for fungus of the toenail or fingernail. The cream and the solution are used for other fungal infections such as athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm. The solution is also used to treat tinea versicolor, a fungal infection that produces brown, tan, or white spots on the trunk of the body. Lamisil does not produce instant results. You won't see the full effect of the tablets for several months, until a healthy new nail has grown out. The cream and solution also work gradually. It usually takes a week for results to appear, and improvement often continues for 2 to 6 weeks after treatment has stopped. However, if you see no change at all after a full week of applying the cream or solution, notify your doctor. The problem may be other than fungal.

How should you take Lamisil?
Follow your doctors directions for taking Lamisil. Before applying Lamisil solution, clean and dry the infected area thoroughly. Use enough solution to fully wet the entire area. When using either the solution or the cream, do not cover the treated area with dressings unless directed by your doctor. Continue using Lamisil for the full amount of time your doctor prescribes, even if your symptoms begin to improve. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at one time. Store the tablets at room temperature, away from light in a tight container. The cream and solution should be stored at room temperature, and not refrigerated.

Are there any Lamisil side effects?
Lamisil side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Side effects of the cream and solution are uncommon. They include burning or irritation, itching, dryness, peeling, and rash. The tablets are a bit more likely to cause a reaction. More common Lamisil side effects of the tablets may include diarrhea, indigestion, and rash. Less common Lamisil side effects of the tablets may include abdominal pain, gas, hives, itching, nausea, taste disturbances, and vision problems. Rare Lamisil side effects of the tablets may include fatigue, flu-like symptoms, hair loss, joint pain, liver problems, muscle aches, and vomiting.

What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Lamisil?
If Lamisil is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Lamisil tablets with Antidepressants (such as Elavil, Luvox, Nardil, Norpramin, Pamelor, Parnate, Paxil, Prozac, Tofranil, and Zoloft), Cimetidine (Tagamet), Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune), Drugs classified as beta blockers (such as the heart and blood pressure medications Inderal, Sectral, and Tenormin), or Rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane).

Are there any special warnings about Lamisil?
Changes in the lens and retina of the eye have been reported in people taking Lamisil tablets. If you notice any changes in your vision while taking the tablets, notify your doctor. Lamisil tablets have been known to cause rare cases of liver damage. If you develop warning signs such as nausea, loss of appetite, or fatigue, alert your doctor. Lamisil tablets are not recommended if you have liver disease or kidney problems. Lamisil tablets have also, in rare instances, caused very severe skin reactions. If you develop a steadily worsening rash, stop taking the tablets and call your doctor immediately. If you develop another kind of infection while taking Lamisil tablets, tell your doctor. Lamisil may decrease your ability to fight infection. Do not use Lamisil cream or solution in the eye, mouth, nose, or vagina. In case of accidental contact with the eyes, rinse them thoroughly with running water and call your doctor if symptoms continue. If you develop skin irritation, redness, itching, burning, blistering, swelling, or oozing while using the cream or solution, notify your doctor. Do not cover the treated area with dressings unless directed by your doctor. Lamisil has not been tested for safety in children.
 

Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor.

 

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