Key takeaways
Terbinafine oral tablet (Lamisil) and clotrimazole cream (Lotrimin AF) are both antifungal medications, but they have some key differences. Terbinafine oral tablet is primarily prescribed to treat fungal infections of the nails and works by preventing the fungus from forming its protective outer layer. Common side effects include headache, rash, and upset stomach, and it can interact with other medications. Clotrimazole, on the other hand, is an over-the-counter topical cream used to treat skin infections like athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm. It works by damaging the protective covering of the fungus. Clotrimazole cream is generally well-tolerated with minor side effects like skin irritation. While terbinafine is taken once daily for several weeks, clotrimazole needs to be applied twice daily for up to a month. Additionally, terbinafine oral tablet can cause serious side effects like liver damage and changes in taste or smell, whereas the side effects of clotrimazole cream are typically mild.
