Nationwide, eleven people have died from liver failure after taking Terbinafine, a drug that is used to treat nail fungal infections of the scalp, body, groin (jock itch), feet (athlete’s foot), fingernails, and toenails.
These deaths prompted the FDA to issue a public health advisory in 2009 stating, “The FDA is issuing a public health advisory concerning Sporanox and Lamisil, systemic drug therapies to treat onychomycosis (fungal nail infections). Healthcare professionals are notified of the possible association of serious cardiac adverse events with the administration of Sporanox and hepatic adverse events with the administration of both Sporanox and Lamisil. New labeling for both Sporanox and Lamisil recommends that healthcare providers obtain nail specimens for laboratory testing prior to prescribing the medications for onychomycosis to confirm the diagnosis. FDA’s concerns do NOT apply to the over-the-counter versions of Lamisil, which are topical creams.”
While the FDA is informing the public of the risks of taking Lamisil, it does not prohibit the drug from being sold. Patients taking Lamisil should be screened for liver problems before taking the drug and while being treated with the drug. To learn more about the drug and its side effects, visit http://www.fda.gov and talk with your healthcare provider.
Before taking any drug, be sure to do your research. You may be taking a drug for a minor ailment, that may have serious or sometimes fatal side effects. At The Thomson Law Firm, we work to help people who have been injured or sickened by the negligence of others. If you have been harmed by a dangerous medication, you should consult Product Liability Attorney Paul Thomson about your case. The consultation is always free, so call (540) 777-4900.
