Why is Griseofulvin  (Gris-PEG) prescribed?

Gris-PEG  is prescribed for the treatment  of the following ringworm infections: 

• Athlete's foot 
• Barber's itch (inflammation of the facial hair follicles) 
• Ringworm of the body 
• Ringworm of the groin  and thigh
• Ringworm of the nails 
• Ringworm of the scalp 

Because Gris-PEG  is effective  for only certain types of fungal infections, before treatment  your doctor may perform tests to identify the source of infection. 

Most important fact about Griseofulvin 

To clear up your infection completely, continue taking Gris-PEG  as prescribed until your doctor tells you  to stop.  Although some improvement may appear within  a few days, you need  to take Gris-PEG for an extended period. 

How should you take Griseofulvin? 

To minimize stomach irritation  and help your body absorb  the drug, take Gris-PEG at meal times or with food or whole milk. If you are  on a low fat diet, check with  your doctor. 

Observe good hygiene during treatment  to help control infection and prevent reinfection. 

If  you miss a dose... 

Take it  as soon as you remember. If  it is almost time for  your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back  to your regular schedule.  Do not take 2 doses at once. 

Storage instructions... 

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container. Protect from light.  Keep the liquid from freezing. 

What side effects may occur? 

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If  any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it  is safe for you to continue taking Gris-PEG. 

Side effects may include: 

Hives, skin rashes 

Why should Griseofulvin not be prescribed? 

If you are sensitive to  or have ever had an allergic reaction  to Gris-PEG or other drugs  of this type, you should not take Griseofulvin. Make sure  your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced. 

Unless you are directed to do so by your doctor, do not take Griseofulvin if you have liver damage or porphyria (an inherited disorder  of the liver or bone marrow). 

Do not take Gris-PEG while pregnant. 

Special warnings about Griseofulvin 

Gris-PEG is similar to penicillin. Although penicillin-sensitive people have used Gris-PEG without difficulty, notify  your doctor if you are sensitive to or allergic to penicillin. 

Because Gris-PEG can make you sensitive to light, avoid exposure to intense natural or artificial sunlight. 

Notify your doctor if you develop lupus erythematosus (a form of rheumatism) or a lupus-like condition. Signs and symptoms of lupus include arthritis, red butterfly rash over  the nose and cheeks, tiredness, weakness, sensitivity to sunlight, and skin eruptions. 

If you are being treated with Gris-PEG for an extended period of time, your doctor should perform regular tests, including periodic monitoring of kidney function, liver function, and blood cell production. 

Gris-PEG  has not been proved safe and effective for the prevention of fungal infections. 

Gris-PEG may decrease the effectiveness of birth-control pills. Use additional protection while you are taking Gris-PEG. 

Men should wait  at least 6 months after finishing therapy with griseofulvin before they father a child. 

Women  should avoid becoming pregnant while they are taking the drug. 

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Griseofulvin 

Gris-PEG may intensify the effects of alcohol. If you drink alcohol while taking Griseofulvin,  your heart may start beating faster  and your skin may be flushed. 

If Gris-PEG is taken with  certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important  to check with your doctor before combining Gris-PEG with the following: 

Blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin 

Barbiturates such as phenobarbital 

Oral contraceptives 

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding 

Do not take Gris-PEG if  you are pregnant.  If you become pregnant while taking Griseofulvin, notify your doctor immediately. There is a potential hazard to  the developing baby. 

If you are breastfeeding, consult with  your doctor before taking Gris-PEG. 

Recommended dosage 

The usual treatment periods for various ringworm infections are: 

• Ringworm of the scalp—4 to 6 weeks 
• Ringworm of the body—2 to 4 weeks 
• Athlete's foot—4 to 8 weeks 

The usual treatment period, depending on the rate of growth, for ringworm of the fingernails is at least 4 months and for ringworm of the toenails at least 6 months. 

ADULTS

Ringworm of the Body, Groin and Thigh, Scalp 

The usual dosage is 375 milligrams a day taken as a single dose or divided into smaller doses, as determined by your doctor. 

Athlete's Foot, Ringworm of the Nails 

The usual dosage is 750 milligrams a day divided into smaller doses, as determined by your doctor. 

CHILDREN

A single daily dose is effective in children with ringworm of the scalp. 

The usual dosage is 3.3 milligrams per pound of body weight per day. This means that children weighing 35 to 60 pounds will take 125 to 187.5 milligrams a day, and children weighing more than 60 pounds will take 187.5 to 375 milligrams a day. 

No dosage has been established for children 2 years of age and under. 

Overdosage 

Any medication taken in excess can have dangerous consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Gris-PEG, seek emergency medical treatment immediately.