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Update on terbinafine with a focus on dermatophytoses
Jason G Newland1, Susan M Abdel-Rahman
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics, Kansas City, MO, USA.
Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology
|March 26, 2011
Summary
Terbinafine is a leading antifungal for superficial fungal infections due to its unique profile. This review covers its action, spectrum, and efficacy compared to other antifungals.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Mycology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Terbinafine has been a leading antifungal treatment for superficial fungal infections for 17 years.
- Its success is attributed to unique pharmacologic and microbiologic properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mode of action, antimycotic spectrum, and disposition profile of terbinafine.
- To examine comparative efficacy data of terbinafine against griseofulvin, itraconazole, and fluconazole for dermatophytoses.
- To discuss the use of terbinafine in non-dermatophyte infections and introduce new formulations.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of data accumulated over 15 years.
- Comparative efficacy analysis of terbinafine versus other antifungal agents.
- Review of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data.
Main Results:
- Terbinafine demonstrates a broad antimycotic spectrum and favorable disposition profile.
- Comparative data support terbinafine's efficacy in treating dermatophytoses.
- Efficacy in non-dermatophyte infections and new formulations are also discussed.
Conclusions:
- Terbinafine remains a primary choice for superficial fungal infections.
- Its established efficacy and evolving formulations support its continued clinical relevance.
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