Lamisil Side Effects

Summary

The most commonly reported side effects from using Lamisil (Terbinafine) include headaches, hives, heartburn, diarrhea, itching, changes in taste and unexplained skin rashes. While these side effects don’t require medical attention in most cases, they should be reported to a doctor if they persist or get worse while using Lamisil.

Common Lamisil Side Effects

The most common Lamisil side effects include the following:

• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Changes in taste
• Itching
• Diarrhea
• Heartburn
• Mild drowsiness
• Stuffy or runny nose

Although most of these side effects are not serious and don’t normally require medical attention, it is important for the patient to inform their doctor if these symptoms worsen.

Serious Lamisil Side Effects

As with any other prescription medication, it is possible for allergic reactions to occur while a patient is using Lamisil. If the following reactions occur, it is important to seek medical attention immediately:

• Difficulty in swallowing or breathing
• Hives
• Swelling of the throat, mouth, lips, neck or face

While the following side effects are not experienced by everyone who makes use of Lamisil, it is important to seek medical attention if any of them are experienced for prolonged periods of time or if they become more severe while using Lamisil:

• Yellowing of eyes and skin which could be indicative of jaundice and liver failure
• Wheezing
• Blurred or double vision
• Loss of sense of smell
• Depression
• Abdominal pain
• Unexplained peeling of the skin or blisters
• Scaly skin rashes which may be diagnosed as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
• Fever or chills
• Weight loss
• Swollen glands
• Swollen or sore joints
• Hair loss

Elderly Patients

Although studies have concluded that elderly patients who use Lamisil experienced similar side effects to younger patients, it is best to exercise caution when prescribing this medication to elderly patients because of the fact that many of them suffer from a variety of heart conditions, renal failure or other conditions which require them to use other forms of prescription medication that may have an adverse reaction when used in conjunction with Lamisil. This is why elderly patients are normally prescribed somewhat lower doses than other patients.

Pregnant or Nursing Mothers

Because of the fact that very little research has been done regarding the effects of Lamisil on pregnant mothers and unborn babies, this medication should only be prescribed when the benefits of it will far outweigh the risks for the mother as well as the baby.

Nursing mothers however, should avoid the use of Lamisil because of the fact that it is present in breast milk when the mother uses it. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should consult with their doctor before using any form of Lamisil treatment.

Preexisting Conditions

Patients who are allergic to Lamisil or any of the active ingredients in it (Terbinafine) should not use this medication under any circumstances. Those suffering from any form of liver condition (including cirrhosis), a compromised immune system (cancer or HIV patients), allergies to preservatives and food dyes, lupus or kidney disease should always discuss the use of Lamisil with their doctor before using it, as it may have adverse effects. If a patient suffers from any preexisting condition, it is important for them to discuss the use of Lamisil with their doctor or pharmacist prior to using it.

Other Medications

If a patient is given a prescription for any form of Lamisil, it is extremely important for them to advise their doctor about all other forms of medication that they may be using to treat other conditions or illnesses. This is because the active ingredients in Lamisil may cause adverse reactions when combined with those of other medications. The following medications have been shown to cause adverse reactions when taken in conjunction with Lamisil:

• Antipsychotic medication such as Mellaril, Prolixin, Perphenazine, Abilify or Risperdal
• Medications prescribed for ADHD (attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) such as Ritalin, Strattera and Dexedrine
• Beta blockers (Coreg, Lopressor, Zebeta, Inderal, Trandate)
• Arrhythmia medications such as Mexitil, Procanbid or Xylocaine
• Phenergan
• Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI’s) such as Paxil, Zoloft, Effexor and Prozac
• Blood thinning medications (Warfarin, Jantoven)
• Tricyclic antidepressants such as Silenor, Norpramin, Pamelor or Asendin
• Antibiotics (Rifadin, Priftin)

Because it is not possible to list every medication which may react adversely with Lamisil, it is important for the patient to keep their doctor informed about the various medications that they may be using, especially if any of them change. This will minimize the risk of adverse reactions occurring. If any interactions occur, the patient should consult with their doctor immediately so that alternative options can be tried.