Lamisil (Terbinafine) Side Effects in Pakistan

Lamisil (Terbinafine) side effects — a complete guide. From common effects to serious warnings — everything you need to know is on this page. Taste disturbance is a notable side effect that can persist for a long time even after stopping the medication.

Compiled by the PakVita Editorial Team · AI-assisted drafting with editorial review · Sourced from DRAP, WHO, BNF · Last updated: 2026-06-17

Side Effects

Quick Answer

Common side effects of Lamisil (Terbinafine) include nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and taste disturbance (dysgeusia) that can persist for months. Serious but rare effects include hepatotoxicity and severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome). Contact your doctor immediately if you notice yellowing of the eyes, dark urine, or severe skin blistering.

Side Effects at a Glance

Common

Nausea (matli)
Diarrhea (dast)
Abdominal pain / stomach discomfort
Taste disturbance / dysgeusia
Rash
Headache (sir dard)

Serious — See a Doctor

Hepatotoxicity — liver damage (rare but serious; manifests as jaundice, dark urine, pale stools)
Stevens-Johnson syndrome / Toxic epidermal necrolysis — severe skin blistering/peeling (rare)
Blood dyscrasias — unusual bruising, bleeding, or blood count changes (rare)
Severe allergic reaction / anaphylaxis (rare)

When to See a Doctor Immediately

Jaundice — yellowing of eyes or skin (liver warning — EMERGENCY)
Dark urine or pale/clay-coloured stools
Severe skin blistering, peeling, or widespread rash (Stevens-Johnson warning — EMERGENCY)
Unusual bruising or bleeding
Taste loss that continues or worsens after stopping the medicine
Severe or persistent abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting

Lamisil (Terbinafine) Side Effects (Nuksanat)

Lamisil (Terbinafine 250mg) is generally well-tolerated when taken at the correct dose for the prescribed duration. However, like all medicines, it can cause side effects in some patients. Taste disturbance is a notable side effect specific to Terbinafine.

Common Side Effects (Aam Nuksanat)

Nausea (matli)
Diarrhea (dast)
Abdominal pain / stomach discomfort
Taste disturbance / dysgeusia
Rash
Headache (sir dard)

These side effects are usually mild. If they continue, inform your doctor.

Serious Side Effects (Sanjeedah Nuksanat)

Hepatotoxicity / liver damage — jaundice, dark urine, severe abdominal pain — see a doctor immediately (EMERGENCY)
Stevens-Johnson syndrome / toxic epidermal necrolysis — severe skin blistering, peeling, widespread rash — see a doctor immediately (EMERGENCY)
Blood dyscrasias — unusual bruising or bleeding, blood count changes — see a doctor immediately
Severe allergic reaction / anaphylaxis — breathing difficulty, severe rash — emergency

When to See a Doctor (Kab Doctor Se Milna Zaroori Hai)

Jaundice — yellowing of eyes or skin (liver warning — EMERGENCY)
Dark urine or pale/clay-coloured stools
Severe skin blistering, peeling, or widespread rash (Stevens-Johnson warning — EMERGENCY)
Unusual bruising or bleeding
Taste loss that continues or worsens after stopping the medicine
Severe or persistent abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting

Warnings and Precautions (Ihtiyat)

Don't use Lamisil if you are allergic to Terbinafine or any ingredient
Do not use in liver disease — risk of hepatotoxicity
Monitor liver function tests during prolonged use
Do not use while breastfeeding

Side Effects Summary Table

Type	Side Effect	Action
Common	Nausea (matli)	Monitor / inform doctor
Common	Taste disturbance (dysgeusia)	Monitor / inform doctor
Common	Diarrhea (dast)	Monitor / inform doctor
Common	Rash	Monitor / inform doctor
Serious	Hepatotoxicity (jaundice)	See a doctor immediately — EMERGENCY
Serious	Stevens-Johnson syndrome (severe skin blistering)	See a doctor immediately — EMERGENCY
Serious	Blood dyscrasias (unusual bleeding)	See a doctor immediately

Reporting Side Effects

If you notice any unexpected side effect, report it on the DRAP pharmacovigilance portal: https://www.dra.gov.pk/pharmacovigilance

The information in this guide is for educational purposes only. If you notice any side effect, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common side effects of Lamisil?

The most commonly reported side effects of Lamisil include nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, taste disturbance, rash, and headache. These are usually mild. Inform your doctor if they persist or worsen.

Can Lamisil cause liver damage?

Yes, hepatotoxicity (liver damage) is a rare but serious risk with Lamisil. Signs include yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, and severe abdominal pain. If these occur, stop the medicine and seek emergency medical help immediately. Liver function tests may be monitored during prolonged use.

How long does taste disturbance from Lamisil last?

Taste disturbance (dysgeusia) or taste loss (ageusia) from Lamisil can persist for weeks to months after the medicine is stopped. In most cases it resolves, but in rare cases it can be prolonged. Inform your doctor if taste disturbance is affecting your quality of life.

What should I do if I experience side effects from Lamisil?

For mild side effects like nausea or stomach upset, inform your pharmacist — taking Lamisil after food may help. For serious effects such as jaundice, severe skin reactions, or unusual bleeding, stop the medicine immediately and contact your doctor or go to the nearest hospital.

Does Lamisil affect the liver or kidneys?

Lamisil (Terbinafine) carries a risk of hepatotoxicity (liver damage) — rare but serious. It should be avoided in active liver disease. Dose adjustment may be needed in significant kidney impairment. Your doctor will advise based on your test results.

Brand alternatives, same-class options, and other medicines used for the same conditions as Terbinafine Tablet (Lamisil).

Other antifungals

Sibling medicines in the Antifungals class.

All in class →

Sources

DRAP Registered Products Database — Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan
WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, 23rd ed. (2023) — World Health Organization
British National Formulary (BNF) — BMJ Group & Pharmaceutical Press

Medical disclaimer

This page is for educational use only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always confirm diagnosis, dose, and interactions with a qualified doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medicine.