Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed — Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic & Laser

Oral Antifungal Tablets (Terbinafine / Itraconazole)

Last reviewed 1 July 2026 — Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed

A patient advice sheet — 8 practical points. Reviewed and updated by Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed, July 2026.

Last reviewed: July 2026

The advice

Antifungal tablets are the effective treatment for nail and scalp fungus and widespread infections; creams alone are not enough for these.
Usual terbinafine duration: 6 weeks for fingernails, 12 weeks for toenails — daily without interruption.
A liver test is done before starting (and may be repeated as needed); stop the drug and tell us immediately for: persistent nausea, loss of appetite, dark urine, jaundice, or unusual fatigue.
Terbinafine can temporarily alter taste — tell us if it happens.
Itraconazole interacts with many medicines (some cholesterol, heart and allergy drugs) — tell us all your medicines before starting; it is taken after food.
Keep alcohol at zero during the course, and treatment is usually deferred in pregnancy.
Very important: the nail still looks bad after successful treatment until a completely new nail grows out (12–18 months for toenails) — this does not mean failure.
Prevent reinfection: apply the hygiene sheet (thorough drying, cotton socks, antifungal spray inside shoes, your own tools).

See also the full treatment page: Nail fungus treatment — options, evidence and expected timelines.

My private clinic at Kuwait Hospital (Sabah Al-Salem) — direct assessment and a treatment plan built around your case.