Terbinafine is drug used to treat fungal infections. Since this drug can put stress on the liver, combining terbinafine and alcohol is not recommended. The combination can be especially problematic for people with autoimmune disorders such as lupus, and those who have existing liver problems.
The drug is commonly used to treat fungal infections of the fingernails, toenails and the scalp. It is also used to treat fungus that occurs on other parts of the body, such as the groin and feet. The medication is typically given in either tablet or granulated form. Terbinafine must usually be taken for at least three or four weeks before any results are seen. In some cases it may take months before patients notice relief from symptoms.
The initial length of treatment with terbinafine varies, depending on the condition being treated. The usual daily dosage for adults and for children over 75 pounds (35 kg) is 250 mg once a day. Conditions such as fungal infections of the fingernails or scalp require treatment for six weeks. If the fungus is in the toenails, treatment time is doubled to 12 weeks. Some conditions, such as fungus of the foot or ringworm infections may require as little as two weeks of treatment.
A person who chooses the combine terbinafine and alcohol may be at risk for a variety of liver problems, including the possibility of complete liver failure. Symptoms that may require emergency treatment include pale stools, stomach pain, very dark urine or yellowish skin and eyes. It is important to seek medical help immediately if any of these symptoms occur. The physician should be advised that the patient has consumed a combination of terbinafine and alcohol.
For persons who struggle with depression, taking terbinafine with alcohol may compound those feelings. Sadness, mood changes and generalized feelings of unhappiness can all be side effects of this drug. In many people drinking alcohol can cause similar problems. Taken together the two things may result in a person feeling overwhelmed by feelings of unhappiness and despair.
Terbinafine is potentially toxic to the liver, so tests to check the patient’s liver function are usually given periodically during the treatment period. The drug itself poses enough of a risk that very few doctors will allow a patient to take this medicine without a complete liver check prior to treatment. If the patient combines terbinafine and alcohol, the results can be deadly.