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Griseofulvin: uses, side effects & brands
Griseofulvin is an older oral antifungal used for scalp ringworm, especially in children. It belongs to the Antifungal group. Antifungals treat fungal infections of the skin, nails, mouth or internal organs.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Antifungal |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Scalp ringworm (tinea capitis), especially in children
- Ringworm of the body and skin when creams fail
- Some nail fungal infections (less used now)
Common brand names
- India: Grisovin FP, Walavin
- Worldwide: Gris-PEG
Common side effects
- Headache
- Nausea or tummy upset
- Sensitivity to sunlight
- Rash
Before taking it — precautions
- Not to be used in pregnancy; women should avoid pregnancy during and after treatment, and men should avoid fathering a child for some months afterwards
- Tell your doctor about liver disease, porphyria, or lupus
- It can make birth-control pills less effective and react with alcohol and warfarin
When to see a doctor urgently
- Severe or blistering rash (urgent)
- Yellow eyes/skin or dark urine
- Fever, sore throat or unusual bruising
Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of griseofulvin depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.
Frequently asked questions
Why take it with fatty food?
Griseofulvin is absorbed better with a fatty meal, such as with milk.
How long is treatment?
Scalp ringworm usually needs several weeks of treatment; finish the course even if it looks better.
Can it affect pregnancy?
Yes — it can harm an unborn baby, so pregnancy must be avoided during and for a time after treatment.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.