Griseofulvin is a drug to treat fungal infections of the scalp , groin or groin, feet, or nails.
Griseofulvin belongs to a class of antifungal drugs. Griseofulvin works by precipitating in the keratin cells on the surface of the skin, thereby preventing fungal cells from multiplying and attacking the skin.
Griseofulvin trademarks: Fulcin, Fungistop, Gricin, Griseofulvin, Grivacin, Mycostop, Omeofulvin, Rexavin
What is Griseofulvin
| class | Prescription drug |
| Category | Antifungal |
| Benefit | Treating fungal infections |
| Consumed by | Adults and children ≥2 years of age |
| Griseofulvin for pregnant and lactating women |
Category X: Studies in animals and humans have demonstrated a fetal abnormality or risk to the fetus. Drugs in this category should not be used by women who are or may become pregnant.
It is not yet known whether griseofulvin is absorbed into breast milk or not. It is better to avoid using this drug because it has the potential to cause tumor growth. |
| Drug form | Tablets, caplets, film-coated tablets |
Precautions Before Taking Griseofulvin
Griseofulvin should not be taken carelessly. Before taking this drug, you need to pay attention to the following things:
- Do not take griseofulvin if you are allergic to this drug. Always tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
- Griseofulvin is not recommended for children under 2 years of age, because the benefits and safety are not known with certainty.
- Tell your doctor if you have porphyria or liver failure . Griseofulvin should not be used in patients with these conditions.
- Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver disease or lupus .
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements or herbal products.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy.
- Do not drive or do activities that require alertness while taking griseofulvin, because this drug can make you dizzy .
- Do not consume alcoholic beverages while undergoing treatment with griseofulvin, because it can increase the risk of dangerous side effects.
- Immediately see a doctor if you experience a drug allergic reaction or overdose after taking griseofulvin.
Dosage and Rules for Using Griseofulvin
The dose of griseofulvin prescribed by a doctor can be different for each patient. The following are common griseofulvin dosages based on their intended use:
Purpose: Treating fungal infections of the fingernails and toenails
- Adult: 500 mg every 12 hours.
- Children: 10 mg/kg per day.
Purpose: Treating fungal infections of the scalp ( tinea capitis ), skin, and groin
- Adult: 500 mg per day.
- Children: 10 mg/kg per day.
How to Take Griseofulvin Properly
Follow the doctor 's recommendations and read the information listed on the drug packaging before starting to take griseofulvin. So that it can be better absorbed by the body, you should consume griseofulvin with foods that contain fat.
The length of treatment depends on the patient's infection, it can be in a matter of weeks or it can be more than a year. Try to take griseofulvin at the same time every day to make it more effective.
If you forget to take griseofulvin, consume it immediately as soon as you remember if the break with the next consumption schedule is not too close. If it's close, ignore it and don't double the dose.
Continue taking the drug even if the condition improves in a few days. Stop taking the drug too soon the risk of causing the fungus to grow back.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve after taking griseofulvin for the prescribed time.
Store griseofulvin in a closed container to avoid direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Griseofulvin Interactions with Other Drugs
Griseofulvin can cause drug interactions when used with other drugs. The following are some of the effects of drug interactions that can occur:
- Decreased effectiveness of anticoagulant drugs , salicylates, or ciclosporin
- Reduced absorption of griseofulvin when used with phenylbutazone , barbiturates or sedatives
- Decreased effectiveness of atazanavir, darunavir , gefinitib, or nilotinib
- Decreased effectiveness of birth control pills
- Increased risk of sunburn when used with aminolevulinic acid
In addition, taking griseofulvin with a high-fat meal can increase the absorption and concentration of this drug.
Griseofulvin Side Effects and Dangers
There are several side effects that may appear after using griseofulvin, including:
- Headache
- Nauseous
- Vomit
- Diarrhea
- Stomach ache
- Dizzy
- Difficulty sleeping ( insomnia )
Consult a doctor if the side effects above do not subside or get worse. Immediately see a doctor if you experience an allergic drug reaction, Stevens-Johnson syndrome , or serious side effects, such as:
- Mood swings
- Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
- Jaundice
- Dark urine
- Joint pain or muscle pain