FDA OKs Generic, OTC Versions of Foot Fungus Drug

Lamisil fights toenail fungus and athlete's foot

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TUESDAY, July 3 (HealthDay News) -- Athlete's foot and nail fungus sufferers have more options for treatment with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's approval of generic versions of Lamisil (terbinafine hydrochloride) tablets and over-the-counter Lamisil cream.

"This approval offers Americans additional alternatives when choosing medications to treat nail fungus infections," said Gary J. Buehler, director of FDA's Office of Generic Drugs, in a prepared statement.

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Lamisil tablets are prescribed to treat nail fungus infection. These infections occur when fungus grows under the nails of fingers and toes. This is the first time generic versions have been approved for the tablets. The FDA approved applications from more than 13 manufacturers.

The over-the-counter Lamisil cream treats athlete's foot, a skin disease caused by a fungus that usually occurs between the toes. The cream is manufactured by Taro Pharmaceuticals U.S.A. Inc.

The remaining patent on the drug expired June 30, 2007.

More information

To learn more about generic drugs, head to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

-- Madeline Vann