Medicine Information

Grisofulvin-M

Name: Grisofulvin-M
Brand: Grisofulvin-M
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet500 mgAntifungalATC: D01BA01

Generic Name

Griseofulvin Microcrystalline 500 mg Tablet

Manufacturer

Various (generic)

Country

Global

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
grisofulvin m 500 mg tablet	৳ 5.25	৳ 52.50

Description

Overview of the medicine

Griseofulvin is an antifungal medication used to treat a variety of fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails. It is effective against dermatophyte infections (tinea infections) that do not respond to topical treatment.

Uses & Indications

Tinea corporis (ringworm of the body)

Tinea pedis (athlete's foot)

Tinea cruris (jock itch)

Tinea capitis (ringworm of the scalp)

Tinea barbae (ringworm of the beard)

Onychomycosis (fungal infection of nails) when topical therapy fails or is inappropriate

Dosage

Adults

For most infections, 500 mg microcrystalline daily in single or divided doses. For more severe infections like onychomycosis, up to 1 g daily.

Elderly

Dosage adjustments generally not required, but caution due to potential decreased liver/kidney function and polypharmacy.

Renal_impairment

No specific dosage adjustment required, as excretion is primarily hepatic.

How to Take

Take orally, preferably with or after a fatty meal to enhance absorption. The duration of treatment depends on the site of infection and can range from several weeks to months (e.g., 4-8 weeks for skin, 6-9 months for fingernails, 12 months or more for toenails).

Mechanism of Action

Griseofulvin inhibits fungal cell division by binding to microtubules and interfering with spindle formation. It also inhibits fungal cell wall synthesis. It is deposited in keratin precursor cells, making them resistant to fungal invasion.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Clinical improvement typically seen after several weeks, as new keratin needs to grow.

Excretion

Primarily via urine as metabolites, with a small amount excreted unchanged in feces.

Half life

Approximately 9-24 hours.

Absorption

Varies significantly with particle size and fat intake. Microcrystalline form is absorbed better than macrocrystalline. Enhanced by high-fat meal.

Metabolism

Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by demethylation and glucuronidation.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Porphyria
Severe liver disease or hepatic failure
Pregnancy (Category X - teratogenic)
Hypersensitivity to griseofulvin or any component of the formulation

Drug Interactions

Alcohol

Concurrent use with alcohol can lead to a disulfiram-like reaction (flushing, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia) and enhance central nervous system depressant effects.

Warfarin

Griseofulvin can decrease the anticoagulant effect of warfarin.

Barbiturates

Barbiturates may decrease the effectiveness of griseofulvin.

Oral Contraceptives

Griseofulvin may decrease the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, leading to breakthrough bleeding or pregnancy.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20-25°C), away from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, confusion. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; there is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered in acute overdose.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category X: Contraindicated in pregnancy due to teratogenicity. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during and for at least one month after treatment. Lactation: Not recommended during breastfeeding as it is excreted in breast milk and potential harm to the infant is unknown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets per strip100 tablets per bottle

Shelf Life

Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.

Availability

Pharmacies, hospitals

Approval Status

Approved

Patent Status

Off-patent

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Griseofulvin has been extensively studied since its discovery and approval. Clinical trials have established its efficacy in treating dermatophyte infections, particularly those unresponsive to topical agents, and have defined its pharmacokinetic profile and safety in various populations.

Lab Monitoring

Liver function tests (baseline and periodically, especially in patients with pre-existing liver disease or during prolonged therapy)
Renal function tests (periodically)
Complete blood count (periodically during prolonged therapy)

Doctor Notes

Emphasize the importance of completing the full course of treatment to prevent relapse.
Advise patients about potential photosensitivity and the need for sun protection.
Counsel women of childbearing potential on the absolute need for effective contraception.
Monitor liver function tests, especially with prolonged use or pre-existing hepatic conditions.

Patient Guidelines

Complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.
Take with a fatty meal to maximize absorption.
Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment.
Use effective contraception if you are a woman of childbearing potential.
Avoid excessive exposure to natural or artificial sunlight as photosensitivity may occur.

Missed Dose Advice

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.

Driving Precautions

Griseofulvin may cause dizziness, fatigue, or confusion in some individuals. Patients should be advised to exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.