It's very common to experience skin rashes, redness, and eczema in our climate, isn't it? Sometimes these can be fungal infections. So when you go to see a doctor, he or she may prescribe a cream, gel, or spray containing a drug called Terbinafine for these fungal infections. Today, let's talk about how to use this drug exactly and what you need to be careful about.
What is Terbinafine?
Simply put, terbinafine is a medicine that kills fungal infections of the skin . Medically speaking, it is an antifungal medicine.
The most important thing is that this only treats infections caused by fungi . It does not work on skin diseases caused by bacteria or viruses. Therefore, it is very important to see a doctor to find out exactly what kind of infection you have.
Things to tell your doctor before using this medicine
It is essential that you inform your doctor about these facts before prescribing this medication.
- If you have an allergy to terbinafine or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- If you are pregnant or hoping to become pregnant.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother.
When you tell your doctor this kind of information, it will be easier for him to give you the most appropriate and safest treatment.
How exactly do you use this?
This is the most important part. To get the most out of the medicine, you need to use it correctly.
This medicine is for topical use only . Do not take it by mouth for any reason.
- Cleanliness: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after applying the medicine.
- Take care of your eyes: Do not let the medicine get into your eyes. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, open your eyes and rinse them thoroughly with clean water.
- Application amount: Apply a thin layer to cover the infected area and a small area around it. Applying too much will not make it heal faster, it will only waste the medicine.
- Use the full course: This is very important. Do not stop taking the medicine just because the itching has subsided after two or three days. It takes time for the fungus to completely disappear. Therefore, be sure to use it for the full number of days prescribed by your doctor . Otherwise, the disease may recur.
- If given to children: This medicine is prescribed for children over the age of 12 for some conditions. But it should only be done on the advice of a doctor.
If this medicine is accidentally used in excess or if someone drinks it, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take it at the next scheduled time. Never take a double dose .
Things to keep in mind when using the medicine
If you don't think about these things while taking the medication, there is a high chance of the infection recurring.
- Keep your skin dry: After bathing, dry your body thoroughly, especially between your toes and in areas like your groin. Moisture is the perfect environment for fungus to grow.
- Clothing: Wear cotton clothes that absorb sweat. Synthetic clothes like nylon and polyester trap sweat and encourage fungus growth. Wear clean clothes every day.
- For Jock Itch (an infection of the groin area): Avoid wearing tight underwear. Wear loose, cotton underwear. Dry the area thoroughly after bathing.
- For Athlete's Foot: Dry your feet thoroughly after bathing, especially between the toes. Use cotton socks, and change them daily. Wear well-ventilated shoes or sandals. You can also use something like talcum powder to keep the skin dry while applying the medication.
- Other cosmetics: Do not apply any other creams or oils to the infected area without consulting your doctor.
Let's also learn about side effects.
Like all medications, this one can have minor side effects. But there's nothing to worry about. Let's see what they are, and what to do if they happen.
| Side effect | What to do |
|---|---|
| Serious allergic symptoms that require immediate medical attention | |
| Stop using the medicine and see a doctor or go to a hospital immediately . |
| Usually not serious, but tell your doctor if it persists. | |
| Slight redness, dryness, or slight inflammation of the skin at the site of application. | These usually subside within a few days, but if they persist or are bothersome, let your doctor know. |
How do you keep this medicine safe?
- Keep away from children: Always keep medicines out of the reach of small children and pets.
- Storage temperature: Store at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius). Do not refrigerate.
- After expiration: Discard any medication that has passed its expiration date.
Remember, this medicine has been prescribed for you only by your doctor. Do not let anyone else use it without first consulting a doctor, even if your symptoms are similar to yours.
Take-Home Message
- Terbinafine is a medication used only for fungal infections.
- Before applying the medicine, clean and dry the infected area thoroughly.
- Even if your symptoms subside, take the medicine for the full duration prescribed by your doctor.
- If you experience severe allergic symptoms (facial swelling, severe rash), seek medical advice immediately.
- Practicing good hygiene practices (such as wearing clean, dry cotton clothing) can help prevent the infection from recurring.
- If you have any concerns or doubts, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor.
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