Terbinafine Granules Approved by FDA for Tinea Capitis

For several decades, griseofulvin has been the drug of choice for treating tinea capitis, but in September 2007, the FDA approved a new drug — terbinafine hydrochloride (Lamisil Oral Granules) — for this indication in children ages 4 years and older.

Results of multiple studies and of a 2004 meta-analysis have shown that terbinafine is as effective as or better than griseofulvin for treatment of tinea capitis, with equivalent tolerability and side-effect profile. Terbinafine was consistently more effective than griseofulvin against tinea capitis caused by Trichophyton tonsurans, the most common dermatophyte to cause tinea capitis. Two to 4 weeks of terbinafine treatment is associated with cures rates equal to those for 6 to 8 weeks of griseo…