Griseofulvin is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections of the skin, nails, and hair. It works by stopping the growth of the fungi and preventing them from spreading. Griseofulvin is available in tablet and oral suspension form. It is usually taken once or twice a day for several weeks to months. Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, headache, and rash.
Griseofulvin is an antifungal medication used to treat a number of types of fungal infections, most commonly those of the skin, scalp, and nails caused by dermatophytes. These infections include:
- Tinea corporis (ringworm of the body)
- Tinea cruris (jock itch)
- Tinea pedis (athlete's foot)
- Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm)
- Tinea unguium (fungal nail infections)
Griseofulvin is typically only prescribed when other antifungal medications, such as topical creams, have not been effective. It is available in tablet, capsule, and liquid form and is taken by mouth.
Here's how Griseofulvin works:
- It interferes with the fungus's ability to grow and reproduce by disrupting the formation of the fungal cell wall.
- It is absorbed into the keratin, a protein that makes up hair and nails. As new hair and nails grow, the medication is released, helping to clear the infection.
Treatment with griseofulvin can take several weeks or months, depending on the severity of the infection. It is important to take the medication for the full prescribed course of treatment, even if the symptoms improve, to ensure that the infection is completely cleared.