Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

GRISEOFULVIN - ORAL TABLET

(GRISS-ee-oh-FULL-vin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Fulvicin, Grifulvin V, Gris-Peg, Grisactin

Uses

This medication is used to treat fungal infections of the skin, hair, fingernails and toenails.

How To Use

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.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: "blood thinners" (e.g., heparin, warfarin). This drug may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. Discuss using other methods of birth control with your doctor. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

This medication is prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it for another infection or share it with someone else. Another infection later on may require a different medicine.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.