|
|
|
Griseofulvin |
|
|
What is Griseofulvin and why is it prescribed? Griseofulvin is prescribed for the treatment of the following ringworm infections: Athlete's foot, Barber's itch, Ringworm of the body, Ringworm of the groin and thigh, Ringworm of the nails, and Ringworm of the scalp. Because Griseofulvin is effective for only certain types of fungal infections, before treatment your doctor may perform tests to identify the source of infection. To clear up your infection completely, continue taking Griseofulvin as prescribed until your doctor tells you to stop. Although some improvement may appear within a few days, you need to take Griseofulvin for an extended period. How should you take Griseofulvin? Follow your doctors directions for taking Griseofulvin. To minimize stomach irritation and help your body absorb the drug, take Griseofulvin 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 two doses at once. Store Griseofulvin at room temperature in a tightly closed container. Protect from light. Keep the liquid from freezing. Are there any Griseofulvin side effects? Griseofulvin side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Griseofulvin side effects may include hives and skin rashes. Less common Griseofulvin side effects may include confusion, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, headache, impairment of performance of routine activities, inability to fall or stay asleep, nausea, oral thrush, upper abdominal pain, and vomiting. Rare Griseofulvin side effects may include menstrual irregularities, swelling, itching, and shedding of areas of skin, and tingling sensation in hands and feet. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Griseofulvin? If Griseofulvin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Griseofulvin may intensify the effects of alcohol. If you drink alcohol while taking this medication, your heart may start beating faster and your skin may be flushed. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Griseofulvin with Blood-thinning drugs (such as Coumadin), Barbiturates (such as phenobarbital), or Oral contraceptives. Are there any special warnings about Griseofulvin? Griseofulvin is similar to penicillin. Although penicillin-sensitive people have used Griseofulvin without difficulty, notify your doctor if you are sensitive to or allergic to penicillin. Because Griseofulvin can make you sensitive to light, avoid exposure to intense natural or artificial sunlight. Notify your doctor if you develop lupus erythematosus 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 Griseofulvin for an extended period of time, your doctor should perform regular tests, including periodic monitoring of kidney function, liver function, and blood cell production. Griseofulvin has not been proved safe and effective for the prevention of fungal infections. Griseofulvin may decrease the effectiveness of birth-control pills. Use additional protection while you are taking Griseofulvin. 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 Griseofulvin. |
|
|
Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
|
|
Copyright 2008 MyMedications.net. All rights reserved. |
|
