What it does
Griseofulvin is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails.
Commonly used for: fungal infections of the skin, fungal infections of the hair, fungal infections of the nails (onychomycosis)
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Source: Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-21 17:37:40 · updated 2026-09-29 04:33:05
About this medicine
Griseofulvin is an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails.
What it treats
- fungal infections of the skin
- fungal infections of the hair
- fungal infections of the nails (onychomycosis)
How it works
It works by stopping the growth of fungus in the body.
Who it's for
Griseofulvin is for people with fungal infections that do not respond to topical treatments.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: griseofluvin
Griseofulvin is an antifungal medication primarily used to treat dermatophyte infections of the skin, hair, and nails. It is derived from the Penicillium griseofulvum fungus and works by inhibiting fungal cell mitosis and growth. Griseofulvin is typically administered orally and is known for its effectiveness against a variety of superficial fungal infections.
Indications
- Tinea capitis
- Tinea corporis
- Tinea pedis
- Tinea cruris
- Onychomycosis (fungal nail infections)
Dosage
Children: Refer to specific prescribing guidelines or consult the BNF for Children for the appropriate paediatric dosage.
Adults: Refer to specific prescribing guidelines or consult the BNF for the appropriate adult dosage.
Mechanism of action
Griseofulvin binds to keratin in the skin, hair, and nails, preventing the growth of fungi by disrupting the mitotic spindle in fungal cells. This interferes with cell division, leading to the eventual death of the fungus. The binding of griseofulvin to keratin makes the tissues resistant to fungal infection.
Pharmacodynamics
Griseofulvin exhibits fungistatic properties, meaning it inhibits the growth of fungi rather than killing them outright. It is particularly effective against dermatophytes, including Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton species. The drug's effectiveness depends on its concentration at the site of infection and its ability to penetrate keratinous tissues.
Pharmacokinetics
Griseofulvin is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and its absorption is enhanced when taken with a fatty meal. The drug is distributed throughout the body, particularly accumulating in keratin-containing tissues. It has a half-life of approximately 24 hours, allowing for once or twice daily dosing. Griseofulvin undergoes hepatic metabolism and is excreted primarily in the urine. Its pharmacokinetics can be influenced by factors such as age, liver function, and concurrent medications.
Contra-indications
- Porphyria
- Severe liver disease
- Hypersensitivity to griseofulvin or any excipients
Adverse effects
- Headache
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Rash
- Photosensitivity
- Hepatotoxicity
Interactions
- Warfarin (may increase anticoagulant effect)
- Oral contraceptives (may reduce effectiveness)
- Barbiturates (may decrease griseofulvin levels)
- Phenytoin (may decrease griseofulvin levels)
- Cyclosporine (may decrease effectiveness of cyclosporine)
Precautions
- Monitor liver function during treatment
- Use with caution in patients with a history of alcohol abuse
- Avoid sun exposure due to risk of photosensitivity
- Use with caution in patients with renal impairment
Pregnancy
Griseofulvin is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus, especially in the first trimester.
Breast-feeding
Griseofulvin is excreted in breast milk; caution should be exercised when administering to nursing mothers.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Oral tablets
- Oral suspension
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.