Key takeaways
Ketoconazole (Nizoral) and terbinafine (Lamisil) are both oral antifungal medications, but they have different uses and side effects. Ketoconazole tablet may be used for severe systemic fungal infections but is not a first-choice treatment due to its potential for serious side effects like liver damage and heart rhythm problems. It must taken for about six months. On the other hand, terbinafine tablet is a first-choice treatment for fingernail and toenail fungus. It is taken once daily for 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the infection. Terbinafine can cause side effects like headache, rash, and changes in taste or smell, which can sometimes be permanent. Both medications require a prescription and have interactions with other medications, but ketoconazole has more severe and numerous interactions. Additionally, while both can cause liver damage, terbinafine is not recommended for those with long-term or active liver problems.
