This medication is used to treat fungal infections of
the skin, hair, and nails that do not respond to creams/lotions. Clearing
such infections will get rid of symptoms such as itching, red/peeling/scaly
skin, and discolored nails. This medication works by stopping the growth of
fungi. It does not treat infections due to bacteria or
yeast.
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your
doctor. For the best absorption, it is best taken with or after a meal
containing a moderate amount of fat. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist
about specific dietary instructions, especially if you are on a low-fat
diet.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and
response to treatment. Children's dosage is also based on weight. The
length of treatment depends on the type of infection you have. It may take
several weeks to months to complete treatment for infections of the scalp,
feet, and body. Nail infections may require several months to a year or
longer to treat.
Antifungal medications work best when the amount of
medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Take this drug at evenly
spaced intervals.
Continue to take this medication for the full time
prescribed, even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the
medication too early may result in a return of the
infection.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets
worse.
Headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach upset,
tiredness, dizziness, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these
effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist
promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- numbness/tingling of the hands/feet
- mental/mood changes (such as confusion, trouble doing normal
activities)
- hearing changes
- butterfly-shaped facial rash (around the nose and
cheeks)
- joint/muscle pain
- signs of liver disease (such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't
stop, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine)
- signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of
urine, frothy urine)
- signs of infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away,
fever)
Use of this medication for prolonged or repeated periods
may result in oral thrush or a new vaginal yeast infection (oral or vaginal
fungal infection). Contact your doctor if you notice white patches in your
mouth, a change in vaginal discharge, or other new
symptoms.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before taking griseofulvin, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.
This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic
reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more
details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- a certain blood disorder (porphyria)
- liver disease
- lupus
This drug may make you dizzy or less alert. Alcohol or
marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or much less alert. Do not
drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do
it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages while you are taking this drug unless
your doctor gives permission. Drinking alcohol during treatment with this
drug could result in a fast heartbeat and flushing of the skin. Talk to
your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun.
Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use
sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor
right away if you get sunburned or have skin
blisters/redness.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become
pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using griseofulvin.
Griseofulvin may harm an unborn baby. Ask about reliable forms of birth
control while using this medication and for 1 month after the last dose. If
you become pregnant, talk to your doctor right away about the risks and
benefits of this medication. (See also Drug Interactions
section.)
The effects of this drug on human sperm are unknown.
However, based on animal cell studies, the manufacturer recommends waiting
for a period of time after completing griseofulvin treatment before trying
to father a child. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor, and ask
how long to wait after your last dose before trying to father a
child.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk.
Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Some products that may interact with this drug
are:
- barbiturates (such as phenobarbital)
- warfarin
This medication may decrease the effectiveness of
hormonal birth control such as pills, patch, or ring. This could cause
pregnancy. Discuss with your doctor or pharmacist if you should use
reliable backup birth control methods while using this medication. Also
tell your doctor if you have any new spotting or breakthrough bleeding,
because these may be signs that your birth control is not working
well.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
This medication has been prescribed for your current
condition only. Do not use it later for another infection unless your
doctor tells you to.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as kidney/liver function,
complete blood count) should be done while you are taking this medication.
Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more
details.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist about ways to control the
infection and to prevent re-infection. Fungus spreads easily in warm, moist
areas. Follow good hygiene (for example wash and dry the infected area
completely, and do not share articles of clothing or objects that come in
contact with the infected area).
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next
dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Store at room temperature away from light and moisture.
Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and
pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.