Health Library Griseofulvin for Ringworm of the Scalp or BeardFrom Healthwise

You take griseofulvin as a pill (orally). It is available in liquid form for children.

Depending on how severe the infection is, you may take griseofulvin once or twice a day for as few as 4 weeks or as long as 12 weeks.

Griseofulvin stops the growth of fungi.

You use griseofulvin to treat ringworm of the scalp or beard.

You are likely to use griseofulvin together with antifungal shampoos.

Griseofulvin is an effective treatment for ringworm of the scalp or beard. It is the treatment used most often for ringworm of the scalp.¹

• Stomach upset
• Headaches
• Increased sensitivity of skin to sunlight (photosensitivity)

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

• You should not take griseofulvin with certain other medicines, such as birth control pills or blood thinners. Let your doctor or pharmacist know what other medicines you are taking.
• Griseofulvin should not be taken by pregnant women, people with certain diseases (such as lupus), or people who are allergic to penicillin.
• People who are taking antifungal pills will have their blood counts and liver and kidney functions monitored during treatment to watch for any adverse side effects.
• You should take griseofulvin with fatty foods, such as whole milk or ice cream, for better absorption in the body.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

Citations

1. Dastghaib L, et al. (2005). Therapeutic options for the treatment of tinea capitis: Griseofulvin versus fluconazole. Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 16(1): 43–46.

Author:	Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: April 24, 2007
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
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