Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Griseofulvin is prescribed for the treatment of fungal infections affecting the skin, hair, and nails that are unresponsive to creams or lotions. Eliminating these infections helps alleviate symptoms like itching, redness, peeling, scaling of the skin, and discoloration of nails. This medication’s mechanism involves halting the growth of fungi.
Uses and Dosage
Griseofulvin is available in tablet, capsule, and liquid forms for oral administration. Typically, it’s taken once daily or can be divided into two to four doses throughout the day.
While you may notice symptom improvement within a few days, complete eradication of the infection requires prolonged treatment. For skin infections, treatment usually lasts 2 to 4 weeks, 4 to 6 weeks for hair and scalp infections, 4 to 8 weeks for foot infections, 3 to 4 months for fingernail infections, and a minimum of 6 months for toenail infections.
Adhere strictly to the dosage instructions provided on your prescription label.
Shake the liquid medication well before each use to ensure even distribution of the medication.
Even if you start feeling better, continue taking griseofulvin as prescribed. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- headache
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- diarrhea or loose stools
- thirst
- fatigue
- dizziness
- faintness
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- fever
- sore throat
- skin rash
- mouth soreness or irritation
Caution
- Before taking griseofulvin, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you have, as this medication may contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions.
- Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider, especially if you have a history of certain blood disorders (porphyria), liver disease, or lupus.
- Be aware that griseofulvin may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid consuming alcohol or marijuana while taking this medication, as it may exacerbate these effects. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you can do so safely.
- Griseofulvin may increase sensitivity to sunlight. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning beds and sunlamps, and apply sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience sunburn or skin blistering/redness.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to conceive. You should not become pregnant while taking griseofulvin, as it may harm the unborn baby. Discuss reliable forms of birth control with your doctor during treatment and for one month after the last dose. If pregnancy occurs, consult your doctor promptly regarding the risks and benefits of continuing griseofulvin therapy.
- The effects of griseofulvin on human sperm are uncertain. However, based on animal studies, the manufacturer recommends waiting a certain period after completing griseofulvin treatment before attempting to father a child. Consult your doctor regarding the appropriate duration to wait after the last dose before trying to conceive.
- It is unknown whether griseofulvin passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while using this medication.
Form and Strength
Grisovin is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Grisovin tablet:
- 250 mg
FAQ
How long does it take for Grisovin to work?
How long it takes for Grisovin to work depends on what kind of infection you have, where it’s located, and how severe it is. For example, if you have ringworm infection on the body, it can take 2 to 4 weeks for this medication to fully treat the infection. But if you have nail infections, you might need to take Grisovin for 4 to 6 months.
Can I stop Grisovin early if my infection seems to be better?
No. Continue taking Grisovin even if it seems like your infection is gone. Stopping it too early can cause your infection to come back and be more difficult to treat.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/griseofulvin-microsize/what-is#faqs
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/griseofulvin-oral-route/description/drg-20064116
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-52769/griseofulvin-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682295.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/griseofulvin.html
