Product Description

Terbinafine Tablets IP 250 mg are an antifungal medicine used to treat fungal infections of the toenails and fingernails (onychomycosis), which can cause nails to become thickened, discolored, brittle, or prone to breaking.

They are also effective for other dermatophyte infections, such as tinea capitis (scalp ringworm; oral granules are preferred for children). 

Terbinafine is a systemic allylamine antifungal that targets dermatophytes, yeasts, and some molds, but it is not effective against all fungal types (e.g., Candida in nails).

Uses

Terbinafine 250 mg Tablets are indicated for Onychomycosis (fungal nail infections) of the toenails or fingernails, caused by dermatophytes (e.g., Trichophyton species) and Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm) in adults (oral granules are typically used for children ≥4 years).

They are used for 6–12 weeks for nails (fingernails: 6 weeks; toenails: 12 weeks) or 2–4 weeks for skin infections like tinea corporis (ringworm), tinea pedis (athlete's foot), or tinea cruris (jock itch), though the exact duration depends on response.

Not for superficial skin infections (use topical forms) or chronic/recurrent cases without evaluation.

How it works

Terbinafine 250 mg tablets contain terbinafine hydrochloride, which inhibits the fungal enzyme squalene epoxidase in the ergosterol biosynthesis pathway.

This leads to the accumulation of toxic squalene and depletion of ergosterol, disrupting the integrity of the fungal cell membrane. 

As a result, the fungus cannot grow or reproduce, leading to cell death and clearance of the infection. It has fungicidal activity against dermatophytes and concentrates in skin, nails, and hair.

Benefits

Terbinafine 250 mg Tablets effectively treat stubborn fungal infections like onychomycosis and tinea capitis, where topical treatments may fail. 

They promote healthy nail regrowth (full results visible in 3–6 months post-treatment) and resolve scalp infections, reducing itching, scaling, and hair loss. 

As an oral option, it provides systemic coverage for hard-to-reach areas, with high cure rates (up to 70–80% for nails when completed fully), improving aesthetics and preventing spread.

How to use

Terbinafine Tablets uses: Take it with or without food as advised by the doctor. Swallow the whole tablet with a glass of water. Do not break, crush, or chew it.

Side Effects

• Diarrhoea

• Indigestion

• Stomach pain

• Headache

• Taste disturbance

• Nausea

• Flatulence (gas) 

Safety Advice

Interaction unknown but potentially hepatotoxic; avoid or limit alcohol to protect liver function. Avoid breastfeeding, as terbinafine passes into breast milk and may cause side effects in infants (e.g., diarrhea, rash). Wait 1 week post-treatment before breastfeeding. Contraindicated in active or chronic liver disease (e.g., cirrhosis). Baseline and monthly LFTs recommended during the first 4–6 weeks; discontinue if enzymes >2x upper limit. Inform your doctor of any history.

Storage Conditions

Store at a temperature below 86°F (30 °C). Protect from light and moisture.

FAQs

What foods are to be avoided while taking Terbinafine Tablets IP 250mg?

You are recommended to avoid foods containing chocolate and caffeine, such as cocoa beans, tea, coffee, cola, and energy drinks, while using Terbinafine Tablets, as it may increase the adverse effects of caffeine.

Do Terbinafine Tablets make skin sensitive to sunlight?

Terbinafine Tablets use may increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight. Therefore, avoid or limit exposure to sunlight and sunlamps. You are advised to use sunscreen and wear protective clothing while going out to prevent sunburn. However, if you notice any unusual skin sensitivity after using Terbinafine Tablets such as a rash, please consult a doctor.

Do Terbinafine Tablets cause changes in taste?

Terbinafine Tablets IP 250mg may cause changes in taste or loss of taste as a side effect. It may usually improve within several weeks after stopping the medicines, but it may become permanent or last for a long time. However, if you have a poor appetite, unintended weight loss, loss of taste or changes in taste, or a change in mood or depressive symptoms, inform your doctor.

Can I stop Terbinafine Tablets use on my own?

You are not recommended to stop Terbinafine Tablets use without consulting your doctor, as it may cause recurring infections. Therefore, take Terbinafine Tablets IP 250mg for as long as your doctor has prescribed it, and if you experience any difficulty while taking Terbinafine Tablets IP 250mg, please consult your doctor.