Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Griseofulvin

Griseofulvin: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is griseofulvin?

Griseofulvin is an antifungal medicine. It can treat the fungal infections of the skin, hair, scalp, and nails that could not be resolved by other antifungal creams.

You can consume griseofulvin as tablets, capsules, and liquids. However, if used for a longer duration, it may harm the liver. High doses may cause severe skin reactions. Therefore, take due precautions to follow your doctor’s instructions. Griseofulvin is not recommended during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. It is not prescribed for infants below 2 years.

What are the uses of griseofulvin?

Griseofulvin is a prescription antifungal medicine. It prevents the fungus from multiplying and affecting other areas. These are its uses:

  • It treats fungal infections of the scalp, toenails, and fingernails.
  • It helps in healing infections such as athlete’s foot, ringworm, and jock itch.
  • Griseofulvin stops fungal growth and reduces itching and peeling of the skin and discoloration of nails.
  • It reduces acne and pimples if used regularly for 7–8 weeks. 

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    What are the side effects of griseofulvin?

    Doctors prescribe griseofulvin after ensuring that the benefits outweigh any side effects. Seek medical attention if you notice the following common side effects:

    • Headache
    • Dizziness
    • Numbness
    • Loss of appetite
    • Vomiting
    • Stomach upsets
    • Diarrhea

    Do not ignore the following serious side effects. Contact your doctor immediately so that they can change your dosage.

     

    • Fever
    • Skin rash
    • Tingling or burning sensation in hands and feet
    • Sleeplessness
    • Confusion
    • Muscle or joint pain

    For advice on the care and treatment of skin infections, please contact our medical experts at Yashoda Hospitals.

     

    What is Griseofulvin

    Uses of Griseofulvin

    Side effects of Griseofulvin

    References

    1. Griseofulvin Uses, Side Effects & Warnings
    2. Griseofulvin
    3. Griseofulvin therapy in acne vulgaris
    4. Griseofulvin: Side Effects, Dosage, Uses, and More

    Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Griseofulvin

    Griseofulvin takes 2–4 weeks to cure skin infection, 4–8 weeks for foot infection, and a few months for fingernail and toenail infections. The duration of the treatment depends upon how serious your condition is. Do not stop or change the dosage abruptly without your doctor’s recommendation, as this may affect its efficiency.

    Griseofulvin does not need to be refrigerated. Store the medicine at room temperature between 15 degrees to 30 degrees Celsius. Keep it in a closed container in a dry place, away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not freeze it.

    Griseofulvin is an oral antibiotic that treats fungal infections of the skin, scalp, fingernails, and toenails. It is produced by fermenting the Penicillium griseofulvum fungus and stops fungal cells from dividing and reproducing. It does not treat bacterial infections, viral infections like the flu and the common cold, and yeast infections.

    Griseofulvin is safe to use as compared to some other antifungal medicines. Usually, people do not experience any serious side effects while using this drug. It is cost-efficient and is known to have the least drug interactions. It is very effective in treating fungal infections of the scalp and hair.

    According to a case study, griseofulvin cures pimples. These are one of the prime symptoms of acne. Regular use of this medicine for 2–8 weeks shows a significant reduction in pimples. However, consult a skin specialist before using griseofulvin for acne. They will advise you about the exact dosage.

    Steroids are artificial chemical versions of hormones present in the body. Griseofulvin is a prescription drug that belongs to the antifungal class of drugs. Its usage may increase steroidal hormone levels. However, griseofulvin itself is not a steroid. It is an antibiotic that treats fungal infections like ringworm, jock itch, etc.

    Studies prove griseofulvin to be highly effective in the treatment and cure of fungal skin infections, where other antifungal ointments have been ineffective. Consistent treatment for 6–8 weeks shows a significant reduction in their symptoms, such as peeling or scaly skin, itching, and discolored nails. It is also FDA-approved.

    Doctors recommend taking griseofulvin with milk to avoid an upset stomach and diarrhea. Milk or any other high-fat food helps in better absorption of this medicine. Therefore, doctors suggest taking griseofulvin with or after a rich meal. Shake the bottle well and use the syringe to measure the right dose.

    Yes. Griseofulvin belongs to the class of antifungal medicines. Doctors prescribe it for treating fungal infections of the skin, nails, and hair. Do not take the medicine if you are allergic to it, or suffer from liver failure or lupus. Avoid using the medicine if you are pregnant or lactating.

    Yes, griseofulvin can stop itching caused by fungal infections. It treats fungal infections by stopping the growth and multiplication of fungi. It also prevents the fungi from spreading to other areas. This, in turn, reduces the various symptoms of the infection, such as itching, scaliness, and peeling of the skin.

    For advice on better treatment and management of skin infections and fungal infections, contact our medical experts at Yashoda Hospitals.