What is griseofulvin?

 Griseofulvin is an antifungal medicine that is used to treat infections such as ringworm, athlete's foot, jock itch, and fungal infections of the scalp, fingernails, or toenails.

Griseofulvin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

You should not use griseofulvin if you have porphyria or liver failure.

Taking griseofulvin during the first 3 months of pregnancy may harm the unborn baby.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use griseofulvin if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

liver failure;

porphyria (a genetic enzyme disorder that causes symptoms affecting the skin or nervous system); or

if you are pregnant or may become pregnant.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

liver disease;

an allergy to penicillin.

Taking griseofulvin during the first 3 months of pregnancy may cause birth defects. Do not take griseofulvin if you are pregnant. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medicine.

Griseofulvin can make birth control pills less effective. Ask your doctor about using a non-hormonal birth control (condom, diaphragm, cervical cap, or contraceptive sponge) to prevent pregnancy.

You should not breastfeed while using griseofulvin.

Griseofulvin is not approved for use by anyone younger than 2 years old.

How should I take griseofulvin?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose as your infection improves. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Shake the oral suspension (liquid) before you measure a dose. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Tell your doctor if you cannot swallow a tablet whole. You may be able to crush the tablet and sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of applesauce. Swallow the mixture right away without chewing. Do not save it for later use.