Definition

Noun: A synthetic antifungal medication used primarily to treat fungal infections of the fingernails and toenails (onychomycosis). It works by inhibiting an enzyme essential for the synthesis of ergosterol, a key component of fungal cell membranes.

Usage

Terbinafine is prescribed as an oral tablet for systemic treatment of nail fungus. It is typically taken once daily for a period of several weeks, as directed by a healthcare provider.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The doctor prescribed a six-week course of terbinafine for the stubborn toenail infection.
  • Terbinafine is generally considered more effective for nail fungus than older topical treatments.

Advanced Usage

• "to be on terbinafine": to be undergoing a course of treatment with this medication.
  • He has been on terbinafine for a month and is seeing improvement in his fingernail.

Variants and Related Words

• Lamisil: A common trade name for terbinafine.
  • The prescription was written for Lamisil, which contains terbinafine as the active ingredient.

Synonyms

• Antifungal agent: A general term for a substance that kills or inhibits the growth of fungi.
• Antimycotic: Another term for an antifungal drug.

Notes on Different Meanings

The word "terbinafine" refers specifically to this pharmaceutical compound and does not have other general meanings. Its use is confined to medical contexts.

Noun

1. an oral antifungal drug (trade name Lamisil) used to treat cases of fungal nail disease