d-fine tablet - Terbinafine (500mg) medicine

Terbinafine 500mg Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Parry Pharma Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 31, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for dermatophyte infections.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 31, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes
  • Dark urine or pale stools
  • Severe stomach pain or persistent vomiting
  • Spreading skin rash with blisters or sores in the mouth
  • Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding
  • Fever with sore throat

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is d-fine tablet used for?

Terbinafine 500 mg is an antifungal tablet used to treat fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails. It works by breaking down the fungal cell membrane. The usual adult dose is 250 mg once daily, so the 500 mg strength is not standard for daily use and should only be taken as prescribed by a doctor.

  • Generic Name: Terbinafine
  • Manufacturer: Parry Pharma Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 d-fine tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा टर्बिनाफाइन 500 मिलीग्राम टैबलेट है, जिसका उपयोग त्वचा, बालों और नाखूनों के फंगल संक्रमण के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। इसमें दाद, एथलीट फुट, जॉक इच और नाखूनों के फंगस शामिल हैं। यह दवा फंगस की कोशिका झिल्ली को तोड़कर उसे मार देती है। यह बैक्टीरिया या वायरस से होने वाले संक्रमण के लिए काम नहीं करती। इसका सेवन डॉक्टर की सलाह के अनुसार ही करें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में सिरदर्द, जी मिचलाना, हल्का पेट दर्द, दस्त और त्वचा पर चकत्ते शामिल हैं। कुछ लोगों को स्वाद में बदलाव या भूख कम लगना महसूस हो सकता है। दुर्लभ लेकिन गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में लिवर की क्षति, गंभीर त्वचा प्रतिक्रियाएँ और रक्त विकार शामिल हैं। अगर आपको आँखों या त्वचा का पीलापन, गहरे रंग का पेशाब, तेज पेट दर्द या फैलता हुआ चकत्ता दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा का सेवन डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही करें। इसे दूसरों के साथ साझा न करें। अपने डॉक्टर को उन सभी दवाओं के बारे में बताएं जो आप ले रहे हैं, खासकर रिफैम्पिसिन, सिमेटिडीन और अवसादरोधी दवाएं। इस दवा के साथ शराब न पिएं क्योंकि इससे लिवर को नुकसान का खतरा बढ़ सकता है। यदि आप गर्भवती हैं, गर्भधारण की योजना बना रही हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं, तो डॉक्टर से सलाह लें।

💡 Did You Know? India is the largest provider of generic medicines globally, supplying over 50% of global vaccine demand.

💊 d-fine tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Onychomycosis (fungal nail infection)","description":"Terbinafine is used to treat fungal infections of the fingernails and toenails caused by dermatophytes.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Tinea corporis (ringworm of the body)","description":"Used for fungal skin infections that produce ring-shaped, itchy patches.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Tinea pedis (athlete's foot)","description":"Used for fungal infection of the feet, especially between the toes.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Tinea cruris (jock itch)","description":"Used for fungal infection of the groin and inner thighs.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm)","description":"Used in some cases for fungal infection of the scalp, usually under specialist care.","evidence":"Established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Cutaneous candidiasis","description":"Sometimes used for certain yeast skin infections when other treatments are not suitable.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Sporotrichosis","description":"Occasionally used for this fungal infection under specialist supervision.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Fungal infections of skin, hair, and nails (dermatophytosis).

Also treats: Onychomycosis, Tinea pedis, Tinea corporis, Tinea cruris, Tinea capitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Terbinafine
Brand NameAf-ter Lotion
ManufacturerParry Pharma Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassANTI INFECTIVES
Action ClassFungal ergosterol synthesis inhibitor
Route of AdministrationThe source record lists the route as topical, but the dosage form is a 500 mg tablet, which is normally taken by mouth. The route should be confirmed with the prescriber or manufacturer. This profile describes the well-established oral pharmacology of terbinafine
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C. Keep in the original container, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate unless the label says so.
Shelf LifeThe shelf life is typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture. Check the expiry date on the pack before use.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Confirm the correct strength with your prescriber, because 500 mg is not the usual once-daily adult dose for most fungal infections.
2
Take this medicine at the same time each day to keep steady levels in your body.
3
Avoid alcohol completely during treatment to protect your liver.
4
Tell your doctor about all other medicines, especially rifampicin, cimetidine, and antidepressants.
5
Complete the full course even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning.
6
Report any yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, or severe stomach pain immediately.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Itchy, ring-shaped rash on skin
This medicine is commonly prescribed for fungal skin infections.
Likely Use
✅
Thick, discolored toenails
This medicine is used for fungal nail infections.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary
❌
Sore throat
This medicine does not treat bacterial throat infections.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionWhen taken by mouth, terbinafine is well absorbed, with about 70-80% of the dose reaching the bloodstream. Absorption is not greatly affected by food. For topical use, systemic absorption is very low.
DistributionTerbinafine is highly lipophilic and keratophilic, meaning it binds to fat and keratin. It concentrates in skin, nails, and fatty tissue. It also enters breast milk.
Protein BindingTerbinafine is more than 99% bound to plasma proteins, mainly albumin and lipoproteins.
MetabolismTerbinafine is extensively metabolized in the liver by several cytochrome P450 enzymes, including CYP2C9, CYP1A2, CYP3A4, and CYP2C8. It does not significantly inhibit or induce most CYP enzymes, so it has fewer drug interactions than some other antifungals.
Half-LifeThe terminal elimination half-life is approximately 200 to 400 hours because the medicine is slowly released from skin, fat, and nails. This long half-life allows once-daily dosing and supports short treatment courses.
ExcretionMetabolites are mainly excreted in the urine, with some excretion in the feces. About 70% of the dose appears in urine and 20% in feces.
BioavailabilityOral bioavailability is approximately 40% due to first-pass metabolism. Topical bioavailability is very low.
Onset of ActionFor skin infections, improvement may be noticed within 1 to 2 weeks. For nail infections, visible improvement usually takes several weeks to months because the nail grows slowly.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentration is reached about 2 hours after an oral dose.
Duration of ActionThe effect lasts for weeks after the last dose because terbinafine remains in skin, fat, and nails. This is why short courses can treat nail infections.

How It Works

Terbinafine inhibits the fungal enzyme squalene epoxidase. This enzyme converts squalene to lanosterol, a key step in making ergosterol for the fungal cell membrane. When the enzyme is blocked, squalene builds up inside the fungus and ergosterol production falls. The combination of squalene toxicity and membrane weakness kills the fungus. This action is fungicidal against dermatophytes and fungistatic against some yeasts.

Mechanism Steps

1
Entry into fungal cells: Terbinafine enters fungal cells and accumulates in the cell membrane.
2
Squalene epoxidase inhibition: It blocks the enzyme squalene epoxidase, preventing the conversion of squalene to lanosterol.
3
Ergosterol depletion: Without lanosterol, the fungus cannot make enough ergosterol for its cell membrane.
4
Squalene accumulation: Squalene builds up to toxic levels inside the fungal cell.
5
Fungal cell death: The membrane becomes weak and the fungus dies, clearing the infection.

💡 How to Take d-fine tablet

Strength: Tablet, 500 mg of terbinafine.

1Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water.
2You may take it with or without food.
3Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew unless your doctor says it is okay.
4Take it at the same time each day to help you remember.
5Do not stop early even if you feel better, because the fungus may still be present.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageFor oral terbinafine, the usual adult dose for skin infections is 250 mg once daily for 2 to 6 weeks, and for nail infections it is 250 mg once daily for 6 to 12 weeks. The 500 mg strength is not a standard once-daily dose for most adults and may be intended for specific conditions or divided dosing. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageOlder adults usually receive the same dose as younger adults, but they may be more sensitive to side effects. Kidney and liver function should be checked before treatment. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentFor people with severe kidney disease (creatinine clearance less than 50 mL/min), the dose may need to be reduced or the dosing interval lengthened. Consult a kidney specialist or pharmacist for advice.
Hepatic ImpairmentTerbinafine is not recommended for people with severe liver disease. For mild to moderate liver disease, the dose may need adjustment and liver function should be monitored. Consult a liver specialist.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended oral dose is 250 mg once daily for most indications. The 500 mg strength should not be taken daily unless specifically prescribed by a specialist. Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with or without food
Food does not significantly affect absorption.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases risk of liver injury.
Caffeine
Limit
Terbinafine can increase caffeine effects.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of d-fine tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Headache (Common (5-10%))
Usually settles on its own. If it persists or is severe, speak to your doctor.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset. If vomiting occurs, contact your doctor.
Diarrhea (Common (2-5%))
Drink plenty of fluids. Seek advice if diarrhea is severe or lasts more than 2 days.
Rash (Common (2-5%))
Stop the medicine and tell your doctor if the rash spreads or blisters.
Taste disturbance (Uncommon (1-2%))
This usually improves after stopping the medicine. Mention it to your doctor if it bothers you.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Liver injury (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, pale stools, or severe stomach pain.
Severe skin reaction (Stevens-Johnson syndrome) (Very rare (<0.01%))
Go to the emergency department if you develop a painful spreading rash, blisters, or sores in the mouth or eyes.
Blood disorders (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia) (Very rare (<0.01%))
Report unusual bruising, bleeding, fever, or persistent sore throat to your doctor immediately.
Anaphylaxis (Very rare (<0.01%))
Call emergency services if you have swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Loss of taste (ageusia)
Stop the medicine and consult your doctor. Taste usually returns slowly.
Hair loss
Discuss with your doctor if it persists after stopping treatment.
Depression or anxiety
Tell your doctor if you notice mood changes while taking this medicine.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Rifampicin Major
Cimetidine Moderate
Warfarin Moderate
Desipramine Major
Metoprolol Moderate
Venlafaxine Moderate
Oral contraceptives Moderate
Caffeine Minor
Antacids Minor
Alcohol Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Rifampicin
  • Cimetidine
  • Terbinafine and CYP2D6 substrates (e.g., desipramine, metoprolol, venlafaxine)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Oral contraceptives
  • Warfarin
  • Caffeine

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine. Both alcohol and terbinafine are processed by the liver, and drinking alcohol can increase the risk of liver injury. If you drink heavily, tell your doctor before starting treatment.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Allergy to terbinafine or any ingredient in the product.","Active liver disease or unexplained persistent liver enzyme elevation.","Severe kidney disease without specialist supervision.","Pregnancy unless clearly needed and advised by a doctor.","Breastfeeding without medical advice."]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems before starting this medicine.","Avoid alcohol during treatment.","Stop the medicine and seek medical help if you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe stomach pain.","Do not use for bacterial or viral infections.","Keep out of reach of children.","Do not exceed the prescribed dose."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Terbinafine passes into breast milk. Because it may affect the nursing infant, breastfeeding mothers should discuss with their doctor whether to use this medicine or to stop breastfeeding temporarily.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose with terbinafine can cause nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness. There is no specific antidote. Treatment is supportive and includes monitoring of liver and kidney function. If you suspect an overdose, contact a poison control center or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Use this medicine exactly as prescribed by your clinician. Do not share it with others. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you take, especially rifampicin, cimetidine, and antidepressants. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine because both are processed by the liver. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, speak to your doctor before use. Keep all follow-up appointments so your liver function can be checked if needed.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Older adults may be more likely to have liver or kidney problems, so their doctor may check these before starting treatment. The dose is usually the same as for younger adults, but side effects should be monitored closely.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are trying to conceive, speak to your doctor before taking this medicine. Terbinafine is not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly needed. Use effective contraception during treatment and for a short time after, as advised by your doctor.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Tell your surgeon and anesthesiologist if you are taking this medicine before surgery. Terbinafine can affect liver enzymes and may interact with other medicines used during surgery. Your doctor may advise you to stop it before an operation.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine. There is no major interaction with common dental anesthetics, but your dentist should know your full medicine list.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Keep your skin clean and dry, especially in skin folds.
🥗
Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing.
😴
Change socks and underwear daily if you have athlete's foot or jock itch.
💧
Avoid sharing towels, shoes, or nail clippers with others.
🧘
Wash your hands after touching infected areas.
🌞
Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

You can usually exercise while taking this medicine. If you feel dizzy or tired, avoid heavy exercise until you feel better. Keep your feet dry if you have athlete's foot, and wear clean socks when working out.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Limit alcohol completely during treatment.
Stay well hydrated with water.
Include protein-rich foods to support healing.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

Most people can continue their normal work and daily activities while taking this medicine. If you feel dizzy or have stomach upset, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you feel better. Take the medicine at a time that fits your routine.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you develop yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe stomach pain, a spreading rash, or difficulty breathing. Otherwise, do not stop early without consulting your doctor, because stopping too soon can allow the infection to return.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of terbinafine is generally not needed for most fungal infections. Rarely, prolonged use may increase the risk of liver problems, taste disturbances, or blood disorders. Your doctor may check liver function if you take it for more than a few weeks. Do not use it for longer than prescribed without medical advice.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Topical antifungals

Creams or sprays containing terbinafine or clotrimazole can treat mild skin infections.

Evidence: Well-established
Good hygiene

Keeping skin dry and clean helps prevent fungal infections.

Evidence: Well-established
Other oral antifungals

Itraconazole or fluconazole may be options if terbinafine is not suitable.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between terbinafine and vaccines. You can receive routine vaccinations while taking this medicine unless your doctor advises otherwise.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label visible. Bring a copy of your prescription in case customs officials ask. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you are crossing time zones, keep taking the medicine at the same interval as prescribed, but adjust to local time gradually. Do not leave it in a hot car or checked luggage.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 52-year-old man with toenail fungus
He was prescribed terbinafine 250 mg daily for 12 weeks. He noticed new healthy nail growth after about 8 weeks. He avoided alcohol and kept his follow-up appointments. His liver tests remained normal.
💡 Lesson: Patience and regular follow-up are important because nail fungus takes months to clear.
👤 A 34-year-old woman with athlete's foot
She took terbinafine 250 mg daily for 2 weeks. Her itching and peeling improved within 10 days. She also kept her feet dry and changed socks daily to prevent recurrence.
💡 Lesson: Good foot hygiene along with medicine helps prevent repeat fungal infections.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: For skin infections, you may notice improvement in 1 to 2 weeks. For nail infections, it can take several weeks to months because nails grow slowly.

Q: Can I stop the medicine when I feel better?

A: No. You should complete the full course prescribed by your doctor to prevent the infection from returning.

Q: Is it safe to take with other medicines?

A: Terbinafine can interact with some medicines, including rifampicin, cimetidine, and certain antidepressants. Always tell your doctor about all medicines you take.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my liver?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for d-fine tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Terbinafine works for all skin rashes.
    Fact: Terbinafine only treats fungal infections. It does not work for eczema, psoriasis, or bacterial infections.
  • Myth: You can stop terbinafine as soon as the rash clears.
    Fact: You should complete the full course prescribed by your doctor to prevent the infection from returning.
  • Myth: Terbinafine is safe to take with any medicine.
    Fact: Terbinafine can interact with rifampicin, cimetidine, warfarin, and some antidepressants. Always tell your doctor about all medicines you take.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Terbinafine 250 mg tablet
  • Terbinafine 500 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Binax 500mg Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Terbinafine","class":"Allylamine","route":"Oral or topical","common_use":"Dermatophyte skin and nail infections","half_life":"200-400 hours"},{"medicine":"Itraconazole","class":"Triazole","route":"Oral","common_use":"Skin, nail, and systemic fungal infections","half_life":"20-60 hours"},{"medicine":"Fluconazole","class":"Triazole","route":"Oral or intravenous","common_use":"Yeast infections, including candidiasis","half_life":"30 hours"}]

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