GENERIC NAME: GRISEOFULVIN - ORAL SUSPENSION (GRISS-ee-oh-FULL-vin)
BRAND NAME(S): Grifulvin V
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat fungal infections of the skin, hair, fingernails and toenails.
HOW TO USE: Shake this suspension well before using. Take as directed by mouth. It is best taken with a meal containing a moderate amount of fat. It may take from several days to several months to complete treatment. This depends upon the type and location of the infection. Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow the infection to continue, resulting in a return of the infection.
SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, diarrhea, nausea, gas, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, trouble sleeping, or increased sensitivity to sunlight (sunburn-like effect) may occur. If these symptoms persist or worsen, contact your doctor promptly. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop: yellowing of eyes or skin, signs of infection (e.g., fever, chills, persistent sore throat), soreness of the mouth or tongue, mental/mood changes, tingling or numbness of the hands/feet. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: skin rash, hives, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: blood disorder (porphyria), severe liver disease (hepatic failure). 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 rapid heart rate and flushing of the skin. Griseofulvin may increase your sensitivity to sunlight (sunburn-like effect). Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths or sunlamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. This medication must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Use of a reliable form of birth control is recommended during treatment with griseofulvin and for one month after the drug is stopped. If you are planning to become pregnant within one month after treatment, the manufacturer recommends avoiding this drug. Due to potential harmful effects on human sperm, the manufacturer recommends that males wait at least six months after completing griseofulvin treatment before attempting to father a child. It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Due to the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Back to Medications IndexLast Editorial Review: 3/2/2005