Mycocur

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Mycocur

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Mycocur

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Terbinafine Hydrochloride
Form Oral tablet and topical cream
Pharmacological class Allylamine Antifungal agent
General purpose To eliminate the organism causing fungal infections
Origin Synthetic

What is Mycocur and its Chemical Identity?

Mycocur is a pharmaceutical preparation whose therapeutic activity is rooted in the single synthetic compound, Terbinafine Hydrochloride. This drug is classified as an antifungal medicine and belongs specifically to the allylamine pharmacological class. The medicine's identity is centered on its active ingredient, Terbinafine, which is recognized for its potent action against dermatophytes. This classification is key, as the allylamine structure targets a unique step in the fungal cell pathway, establishing its specific mode of efficacy.


What Types and Forms of Mycocur Are Available?

Mycocur is characteristically offered in two principal methods: as an oral tablet for systemic treatment and as various topical preparations, frequently an emollient cream, for localized external application. The availability of both forms allows for a differentiated treatment approach; the systemic oral form is often utilized for more severe or extensive infections, such as those affecting the nails (onychomycosis), while the topical preparation addresses superficial skin issues. Terbinafine is available in both oral and topical formulations.


What is the General Purpose of This Antifungal Medicine?

The general purpose of Mycocur is to provide a solution for actively arresting the progression of various fungal infections by eliminating the causal organism. The medicine achieves this through a powerful fungicidal action. Its mechanism involves selectively targeting and inhibiting the enzyme squalene epoxidase, which is critical for synthesizing the fungal cell membrane's essential component, ergosterol. This targeted mechanism ensures the fungal organism is eradicated, supporting the recovery of infected tissues.

Regulatory References

  1. Terbinafine Drug Information

What side effects are possible with Mycocur?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Mycocur (Terbinafine Hydrochloride) is officially documented by government regulatory agencies and involves a range of adverse reactions classified by frequency. These classifications distinguish between reactions commonly expected during treatment and those that are rare but clinically significant.


Adverse Reaction Frequencies and System-Organ Classes

The most frequent adverse events for the oral tablet are often classified as Very Common or Common and involve the Gastrointestinal Disorders (e.g., diarrhea, dyspepsia, nausea, abdominal pain) and the Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders (e.g., arthralgia and myalgia). Headache and skin reactions such as rash are also commonly reported.

Less frequent effects classified as Uncommon or Rare include disturbances to the nervous system and sensory functions, such as dizziness and changes in taste or smell. For the topical cream, common local reactions include skin exfoliation, pruritus (itching), and localized erythema.


Serious Adverse Reactions and Safety Constraints

Official labeling documents the risk of rare but severe adverse reactions, including significant Hepatobiliary Disorders, such as cases of liver failure which have resulted in transplantation or death. Severe, potentially life-threatening cutaneous reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, are also noted in post-marketing reports.

Use of the oral tablet is formally contraindicated in individuals with chronic or active liver disease or severe renal impairment. Furthermore, regulatory notes indicate that the sensory disturbance of taste may be prolonged or, in rare instances, permanent.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Official regulatory information for Mycocur (Terbinafine) overdose establishes a defined profile of expected clinical manifestations and mandatory emergency actions.

Documented Overdose Manifestations

Overdosage of Mycocur, including reports of ingestions up to 5 grams, is typically associated with symptoms that are generally classified as non-life-threatening. The primary documented presentations affect the gastrointestinal and central nervous systems. Manifestations may include nausea, vomiting, and epigastric pain related to the digestive system, as well as dizziness and headache. Rash and frequent urination are also among the documented findings in overdose scenarios.

Regulatory-Mandated Emergency Response

It is required to seek immediate medical attention for any suspected overdose. The official guidance is to immediately contact emergency services or a national Poison Help line. Management is limited to supportive care, as no specific antidote is known for Mycocur overdose. Treatment procedures officially described in regulatory documents focus on eliminating the drug from the system and may involve the administration of activated charcoal or, in certain circumstances, gastric lavage. Following these interventions, symptomatic and supportive therapy is administered to manage the specific manifestations observed.

Therapeutic Uses of Mycocur

What Mycocur Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The therapeutic role of Mycocur is primarily within symptomatic management. Its use is defined by its application to specific target conditions and their associated effects. Mycocur is commonly used to offer supportive relief across specific domains, providing support that helps ease the overall burden of symptoms.


Managing Symptom Clusters

Mycocur is applied across therapeutic domains where short-term symptomatic assistance is needed. It is considered relevant for managing symptoms related to physical discomfort, heightened physiological activity, or those that interfere with daily functioning. The medication is used for managing symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive, and may assist in easing the overall symptom load.

Addressing Episodic Relief

This medication is generally used in clinical scenarios characterized by episodic or fluctuating manifestations, often during phases when symptoms become temporarily overwhelming. Mycocur is relevant for easing symptoms associated with acute or disruptive episodes, helping to maintain a sense of stability. The drug is commonly used to help with symptomatic discomfort, may assist in addressing episodic symptom patterns, and is relevant for easing functional strain.

Quick Fact: Relief for Functional Strain
Mycocur supports general well-being during symptomatic phases.

Regulatory References

  1. European Medicines Agency guidance on therapeutic indications

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Mycocur (Terbinafine Hydrochloride) eligibility is strictly defined by regulatory authorities based on a patient's pre-existing health conditions and age. Use of the medicine is contraindicated in specific populations to ensure regulatory compliance, meaning these groups must not use the medicine.

Eligibility Status Population or Condition
Contraindicated Patients with chronic or active liver disease. Individuals with known hypersensitivity to terbinafine or product excipients.
Use Not Recommended Patients with renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 50 mL/min).

Standard use is established for adults (age ge 18), and certain formulations are established for children ge 4 years. However, safety and efficacy are not established for the oral granule formulation in children younger than four years. Use is not recommended for women who are breastfeeding, as the substance is excreted in breast milk, and it should not be used during pregnancy unless deemed necessary. Regulatory bodies also advise use with caution in patients with pre-existing Psoriasis or Lupus Erythematosus.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

This section summarizes the officially documented interaction patterns for Mycocur (Terbinafine Hydrochloride) as described in government regulatory sources.


Interaction Scope

Property Official Regulatory Documentation
Medicinal product categories with documented interactions CYP2D6 Substrates, CYP Enzyme Inducers, CYP Enzyme Inhibitors.
Specific interacting medicines (if explicitly listed) Rifampicin, Cimetidine, Fluconazole, Desipramine, Metoprolol.
Mechanistic basis of interactions (only if stated in label) Potent inhibition of CYP2D6 enzyme. Altered clearance and exposure via CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 modulation by co-administered drugs.
Population-specific interaction notes (if applicable) Systemic clearance may be substantially reduced in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment.
Food, Alcohol, Herbal Product Interactions Food causes a minor, non-clinically significant increase in Terbinafine exposure; the oral tablet may be taken independent of meals.

Official Interaction Statements

Co-administration of oral Terbinafine with drugs primarily metabolized by CYP2D6 (e.g., Desipramine, Metoprolol) is officially documented to increase the plasma concentrations of those co-administered drugs. Rifampicin (a CYP enzyme inducer) significantly increased the clearance of Terbinafine, resulting in an approximate 100% reduction in Terbinafine exposure. Fluconazole (a CYP enzyme inhibitor) increased the Cmax and AUC of Terbinafine. The systemic clearance of Terbinafine is noted in official labeling to be substantially reduced in patients with hepatic impairment, which may heighten the significance of co-administration with other medicines.

Regulatory documents define Mycocur's interaction structure primarily through pharmacokinetic modulation of the cytochrome P450 enzyme system, specifically as a potent inhibitor of CYP2D6. This action determines the officially documented risk of increased plasma levels for multiple co-administered therapeutic classes. The official profile is further structured by documented cases where co-administered CYP modulators significantly alter Terbinafine's own systemic exposure (clearance and AUC).

Mechanism of Action

Terbinafine's mechanism of action involves the highly specific disruption of the fungal cell membrane machinery, leading to the organism's rapid cellular demise.

Targeted Blockade of Essential Fungal Enzyme

The core of the mechanism involves the molecule acting as a non-competitive inhibitor of the enzyme Squalene Epoxidase (SQLE), a key enzyme in the fungal cell's sterol production pathway. This precise interaction initiates a crucial sequence by preventing the formation of ergosterol, the primary structural lipid of the fungal cell membrane, while exhibiting a selective affinity for the fungal enzyme over the equivalent human enzyme.

Dual-Action Cytotoxicity and Cell Lysis

Blocking the SQLE enzyme creates a dual physiological failure for the fungus: it causes a lack of ergosterol, which compromises the cell membrane's structural integrity, and simultaneously leads to the toxic accumulation of un-metabolized squalene within the cytoplasm. This combined damage rapidly triggers fungal cell lysis and death (fungicidal action).

Biological Constraints on Mechanism Efficacy

The mechanism is subject to constraints, including the potential for acquired resistance due to gene mutations in the SQLE enzyme that reduce Terbinafine's binding affinity. Additionally, the drug's effect on certain yeasts may be fungistatic (growth-inhibiting) rather than fungicidal, highlighting a critical difference in the mechanism's physiological outcome based on the target organism.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Mycocur

Mycocur (Terbinafine Hydrochloride) is administered via two primary routes based on the extent of the fungal infection: oral for systemic treatment and topical for localized external application. The choice of form, frequency, and duration of use are standardized to ensure a consistent course of therapy.


Administration and Dosing

The standard adult regimen for systemic use is a 250 mg oral tablet administered once daily. The duration of this course is dependent on the infection site. For instance, treatment for toenail infections (onychomycosis) typically requires 12 weeks, while fingernail infections may require 6 weeks. In contrast, the topical 1% cream is applied directly to the affected skin surface once or twice daily, generally for courses lasting 1 to 4 weeks.

Administration Detail Standard Guideline
Oral Tablet Intake May be taken with or without food.
Topical Application For external use only; must avoid contact with mucous membranes.
Standard Oral Frequency Once daily (QD).
Duration Constraint Dependent on the site of infection (e.g., 6, 12 weeks for nails).

Population and Procedural Constraints

Adherence to the full prescribed duration is required for effective treatment. No specific dose adjustment is generally necessary for older adults. However, dose reduction is required in cases of hepatic impairment, and oral use is not recommended for patients with severe renal impairment, defined as a creatinine clearance of 50 mL/min or less.

Recent Clinical Evidence

The research base for Mycocur (Terbinafine) consists primarily of controlled clinical trials, including randomized studies that compare it against placebo or other established treatments, along with large-scale scientific reviews of this evidence. This overview summarizes what those studies examined and what patterns were observed, without offering clinical guidance.


Research exploring the use of Mycocur tablets for fungal nail infections, known as onychomycosis, involved Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). Researchers monitored outcomes related to Mycological Cure (fungus eliminated in lab tests) and Clinical Cure (visual clearing of nail symptoms). Because nail growth is slow, patients were followed for extended periods—up to 52 weeks—to track the evolution of the nail appearance and monitor for the recurrence of the infection. Long-term outcomes beyond one year are not fully established, and data for certain patient groups remains insufficient.


For superficial skin infections, such as Tinea Pedis (athlete's foot), the evidence relies on short-term RCTs that compared the topical cream against a placebo or other agents. Research examined outcomes related to Therapeutic Cure, requiring both the fungus to be eliminated and physical symptoms to disappear. Follow-up durations were often limited to a few weeks, meaning there is limited information for long-term outcomes regarding potential recurrence over many months.


Research on the oral form of Mycocur for Tinea Capitis (scalp ringworm) was conducted primarily in the pediatric population (children). Findings reported that outcomes may depend heavily on the specific species of fungus causing the infection. The specific dosing and duration regimen across all pediatric age groups is not consistently established across the body of evidence, and evidence quality varies across studies.

Key Studies & References

  1. Terbinafine Monograph for Professionals (Oral/Onychomycosis, Tinea Capitis, Tinea Corporis) – U.S. FDA/NIH Summary
  2. Terbinafine Monograph - Paediatric (Tinea Capitis) – Clinical Guideline/Monograph
  3. PRODUCT MONOGRAPH PrJamp-Terbinafine (Oral Tablets) – Health Canada/Regulatory Monograph

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Mycocur (FAQ)


Q: What happens if I stop taking Mycocur before the full course is finished?

Regulatory guidance highlights the importance of adherence to the full prescribed duration of therapy. Official warnings note that non-adherence to the full course of treatment may be associated with the recurrence of the infection.


Q: How long can I use Mycocur safely?

The duration of treatment is defined in official product information based on the specific type and location of the fungal infection. The oral tablet is not intended for long-term use. Official labeling recommends blood tests to monitor liver function during systemic therapy, which is part of the established safety protocol.


Q: What kind of infections is Mycocur approved to treat?

According to official regulatory documents, the oral form of Mycocur is approved to treat fungal infections of the fingernails and toenails (onychomycosis). The topical cream is approved for various superficial skin fungal infections, including tinea pedis, tinea cruris, and tinea corporis.


Q: What were the main findings of the clinical trials for Mycocur?

Results from clinical trials showed that Mycological Cure rates (fungus eliminated in lab tests) ranged from approximately 70% to 75% in participants with toenail onychomycosis. Complete visual clearing of the nail often takes an extended period due to the slow rate of nail regrowth.


Q: Is the research evidence for Mycocur considered strong?

Regulatory approval is supported by data gathered from adequate and well-controlled clinical trials, such as randomized studies. These studies measured treatment success using specific outcomes like Mycological Cure and Complete Cure over extended follow-up periods.


Q: Is the maximum duration of treatment with Mycocur defined in official sources?

Yes, the maximum duration for systemic treatment is defined in official product information and is based on the specific indication (e.g., 12 weeks for toenail onychomycosis). The duration required for treatment is fixed according to regulatory guidelines.


Q: Does Mycocur work the same way for everyone?

The drug's mechanism of action is consistent; however, studies note that the treatment’s effectiveness may be dependent on variables, such as the specific species of fungus causing the infection. Clinical results can vary among individuals.


Q: How often do people report side effects from Mycocur in studies?

Side effects are officially classified using frequency scales, which represent reports gathered from clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance. These classifications range from Very Common (high frequency) to Rare (low frequency) to summarize the rate of occurrence.


Q: What is the main reason doctors prescribe Mycocur?

The primary approved indication for the oral form of Mycocur is the treatment of fungal infections of the nails (onychomycosis). The topical preparation is approved for addressing common superficial skin fungal infections.


Q: How quickly can I expect Mycocur to start working?

Official documents do not specify a time to the first relief of symptoms. For nail infections, the full effects of the medicine are not observed until the new, uninfected nail grows out, which takes several months.


Q: Can Mycocur cause weight gain or weight loss?

Weight loss has been reported in post-marketing surveillance, sometimes occurring concurrently with disturbances to taste or smell. Weight gain is not generally listed as an adverse event in official product information.


Q: Does Mycocur affect sleep or cause insomnia?

Insomnia has been reported as an adverse event during post-marketing use of the oral tablet, according to official adverse event reports.


Q: Are there any common foods or drinks that should be avoided while taking Mycocur?

Regulatory information indicates that the crushed tablet should not be mixed with acidic foods or drinks, such as fruit juices, as this may affect absorption. Some resources also indicate that Mycocur may increase the concentration of caffeine in the body.


Q: Does Mycocur interact with common pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen?

Official labeling advises caution when combining Mycocur with any other medicine due to its effects on the Cytochrome P450 enzyme system. While specific interactions with common pain relievers are not listed, interactions with this enzyme system are documented.


Q: How long does Mycocur stay in your system after the last dose?

Official pharmacokinetic studies estimate the terminal elimination half-life to be between 200 and 400 hours. This means the substance can remain detectable in the body for an extended period after the treatment course is completed.


Q: What is the difference between Mycocur and other similar named treatments?

The chemical identity of Mycocur is defined by its active ingredient, Terbinafine Hydrochloride. Differences between products containing the same active ingredient are typically limited to the formulation (e.g., oral tablet vs. topical cream) or the inactive ingredients (excipients).


Q: What should I do if I miss a dose of Mycocur?

Official patient information often includes guidance on what to do when a dose is missed. Generally, this guidance details how to proceed to avoid taking a double dose, emphasizing the need to adhere to the prescribed frequency.


Q: Does Mycocur interact with birth control pills?

Official regulatory reports include documentation of menstrual disturbances, such as irregular cycles or breakthrough bleeding, when oral Mycocur was used concurrently with oral contraceptives.


Q: Can Mycocur be taken with blood pressure medication?

Due to its effect on the CYP2D6 enzyme, official documents state that co-administration with certain blood pressure medications (such as beta-blockers like Metoprolol) may result in increased plasma concentrations of the co-administered drug.


Q: Why do official documents mention the risk of [specific rare side effect] with Mycocur?

These warnings are included in official documentation because severe effects, such as liver failure or severe skin reactions, have been reported through continuous monitoring (post-marketing surveillance) and must be formally disclosed by the regulatory body.


Q: Does Mycocur affect mood or cause anxiety?

Official regulatory documents based on post-marketing experience have included reports of depressive symptoms associated with the use of oral Mycocur.


Q: What are the general safety classifications for Mycocur?

Official labeling states that the oral form is generally not recommended during pregnancy. It is also noted that the drug is excreted in breast milk, leading to the recommendation that breastfeeding should be discontinued during treatment.


Q: Does Mycocur make you more sensitive to the sun?

Official patient instructions indicate that the drug may increase skin sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity). Related warnings often suggest that protective measures against UV exposure are appropriate during therapy.


Q: Can Mycocur be taken at the same time as my vitamins or supplements?

Due to its documented impact on the CYP enzyme system, regulatory information advises caution regarding potential interactions when combining Mycocur with any other substance, including vitamins or supplements.


Q: How does the time of day I take Mycocur affect its effectiveness?

Official dosing instructions specify that the oral tablet should be taken once daily. Taking the dose at approximately the same time each day is the standard procedure for maintaining a constant systemic exposure.


Q: What does the term '[jargon term from document] side effect' mean in relation to Mycocur?

Official documents use precise medical terminology for accurate reporting of side effects. For example, the term pruritus refers to itching, and erythema refers to skin redness, as observed in studies and post-marketing surveillance.


Q: Does taking Mycocur affect driving ability?

Regulatory documents indicate that the oral tablet is expected to have no or negligible influence on the ability to drive or operate machinery.


Q: Are people with [specific chronic condition] allowed to use Mycocur?

Official labeling defines use as contraindicated in individuals with active or chronic liver disease, severe renal impairment, or known allergies. Caution is also advised in patients with pre-existing Psoriasis or Lupus Erythematosus.


Q: How is the safety of Mycocur monitored after it is released to the public?

The safety of the medicine is continuously tracked through a process called post-marketing surveillance. This process involves systems that collect and analyze reports of adverse events submitted by both healthcare professionals and patients.


Q: Why do some people need to have blood tests while taking Mycocur?

Official warnings and precautions indicate that blood tests, specifically liver function tests (serum transaminases), are part of the safety protocol and may be performed before and periodically during treatment. This monitoring is intended to address the documented risk of liver injury.


Q: Can I crush or break the Mycocur tablet?

While the standard form of administration is swallowing the tablet whole, some regulatory patient information notes that the tablet may be mixed with a small amount of soft, non-acidic food or water in cases of difficulty swallowing.


Q: Can Mycocur affect blood sugar levels?

Regulatory documents do not commonly list changes in blood sugar levels as a documented side effect for the oral form. However, caution regarding topical use is sometimes noted for patients with poorly controlled diabetes.


Q: What information should I read on the patient leaflet for Mycocur?

The patient leaflet (Medication Guide) contains important regulatory information. This includes the approved uses, warnings about severe side effects, necessary monitoring procedures, and known drug interactions.


Q: Why is the information for Mycocur different in [Country A] compared to [Country B]?

Differences in official labeling between countries are based on local regulatory authority approval (e.g., FDA, EMA). These variations may include different approved indications, dosing constraints, or specific local safety reporting requirements.


Q: Is it common to experience dry mouth while taking Mycocur?

Official regulatory documents do not list dry mouth as a Common or Very Common adverse reaction associated with the oral form of Mycocur.

How should Mycocur be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Mycocur

The following requirements outline the official regulatory guidance for the storage and disposal of Mycocur.


Storage Requirements

  • Temperature and Protection: Store Mycocur at controlled room temperature, typically not to exceed 25 C (77 F). The product must be protected from light and moisture. Do not freeze or refrigerate the medication.
  • Handling: Keep Mycocur in its original container and ensure the cap or closure remains tightly closed.
  • Child Safety: Store the product out of the reach and sight of children.

Disposal Instructions

  • Official Pathway: Do not dispose of unused or expired Mycocur by flushing it down a toilet or throwing it in the household trash.
  • Proper Discarding: Take unused or expired Mycocur to an authorized medicine take-back program or pharmacy collection point, following local and national environmental disposal regulations for pharmaceuticals.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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