Grifulvin V (griseofulvin microsize) is an oral antifungal medication specifically formulated to treat dermatophyte infections of the skin, hair, and nails. As a microsized formulation, it offers enhanced absorption and bioavailability compared to conventional griseofulvin, ensuring reliable delivery of the active compound to infected keratinous tissues. This medication works by inhibiting fungal mitosis through disruption of microtubule function, effectively stopping the spread of infection while allowing new, healthy tissue to replace infected areas. Clinical use requires appropriate diagnosis and monitoring to ensure both efficacy and patient safety throughout the treatment course.

Features

• Contains griseofulvin microsize 250mg or 500mg per tablet
• Oral administration allows systemic distribution to skin, hair, and nails
• Specifically targets dermatophytes including Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton species
• Microsized particles for improved gastrointestinal absorption
• Requires fatty meals for optimal bioavailability
• Available in scored tablets for accurate dosing

Benefits

• Effectively clears stubborn fungal infections that topical agents cannot reach
• Promotes regrowth of healthy nails, skin, and hair free from infection
• Prevents spread of infection to other body areas or other individuals
• Reduces risk of recurrence when used for full prescribed duration
• Avoids the discomfort and incomplete coverage associated with topical-only treatments
• Supported by decades of clinical use with well-established efficacy and safety profile

Common use

Grifulvin V is primarily indicated for the treatment of tinea infections caused by susceptible dermatophytes. This includes tinea corporis (ringworm of the body), tinea pedis (athlete’s foot), tinea cruris (jock itch), tinea barbae (barber’s itch), tinea capitis (scalp ringworm), and onychomycosis (fungal nail infections) when caused by dermatophytes. The medication is particularly valuable for infections that have proven resistant to topical antifungal therapy or that involve hair follicles and nail beds where topical penetration is insufficient. Treatment duration varies significantly based on infection site and severity, ranging from several weeks for skin infections to several months for nail infections, until complete clinical and mycological cure is achieved.

Dosage and direction

Dosage must be individualized based on infection type, severity, and patient factors. For adults, typical dosage ranges from 500mg to 1000mg daily, either as a single dose or divided into two doses. For children, dosage is typically calculated as 10mg per kg of body weight daily, not to exceed 1000mg daily. The medication should be taken with or immediately after a meal containing fat to enhance absorption. For tinea capitis, treatment typically continues for 4-6 weeks; for tinea pedis, 4-8 weeks; for onychomycosis, fingernails require approximately 4 months while toenails may require 6 months or longer. Treatment should continue until clinical and laboratory evidence indicates the infection has cleared, and for at least two weeks thereafter to prevent recurrence.

Precautions

Patients should be advised that Grifulvin V may cause photosensitivity reactions, requiring use of protective clothing and sunscreen during treatment. Regular monitoring of hepatic, renal, and hematopoietic function is recommended during prolonged therapy. The medication may reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives; additional contraceptive methods should be employed. Patients should avoid alcohol during treatment due to potential disulfiram-like reactions including tachycardia and flushing. Those with porphyria or history of hepatic impairment require careful supervision. Grifulvin V may impair mental and/or physical abilities required for hazardous tasks; patients should exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.

Contraindications

Grifulvin V is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to griseofulvin or any component of the formulation. It should not be used in patients with porphyria or hepatocellular failure. The medication is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential teratogenic effects and should be avoided in women who are or may become pregnant. Use during breastfeeding is not recommended as griseofulvin is excreted in human milk and may cause adverse effects in the infant. The medication is not recommended for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Concomitant use with barbiturates may decrease griseofulvin absorption and is generally contraindicated.

Possible side effect

Common side effects may include headache (approximately 15% of patients), gastrointestinal disturbances including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or epigastric distress (8-12%), and dermatological reactions such as rash, urticaria, or photosensitivity (3-8%). Less frequently, patients may experience oral thrush, fatigue, dizziness, or insomnia. Rare but serious adverse effects include proteinuria, leukopenia, granulocytopenia, hepatitis, and systemic lupus erythematosus-like syndrome. Neurological effects including peripheral neuropathy, paresthesia, and confusion have been reported with long-term use. Most side effects are dose-related and reversible upon discontinuation of therapy.

Drug interaction

Grifulvin V induces hepatic cytochrome P450 enzymes, potentially reducing the effectiveness of warfarin-type anticoagulants, requiring more frequent monitoring of prothrombin time. Concurrent use with barbiturates may decrease griseofulvin absorption and serum levels. The medication may reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives, potentially leading to contraceptive failure. Griseofulvin may potentiate the effects of alcohol, producing tachycardia and flushing. Concomitant administration with cyclosporine may reduce cyclosporine levels, requiring dosage adjustment. The medication may interfere with the absorption and efficacy of salicylates.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Consistency in dosing is important for maintaining effective antifungal levels, so patients should be advised to establish a routine for medication administration. If multiple doses are missed, patients should contact their healthcare provider for guidance on resuming therapy.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, blurred vision, and mental confusion. In severe cases, hepatotoxicity or hematological abnormalities may occur. There is no specific antidote for griseofulvin overdose. Treatment should be supportive and symptomatic, including gastric lavage if ingestion was recent and activated charcoal administration. Monitoring of hepatic and hematopoietic function is recommended. Hemodialysis is not likely to be effective due to high protein binding. Patients should be advised to seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep container tightly closed and protect from light and moisture. Store in the original container and keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Do not transfer tablets to other containers, as the original packaging provides necessary protection from environmental factors. Discard any medication that shows signs of deterioration or discoloration.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Grifulvin V is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Treatment decisions should be based on individual patient assessment by a licensed medical practitioner. The information provided here may not include all possible uses, directions, precautions, or interactions. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for complete information about their specific medical condition and treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read in this product information.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate Grifulvin V achieves mycological cure rates of 70-90% for various dermatophyte infections when used appropriately. Dermatologists report reliable efficacy in stubborn tinea infections, particularly noting its value in tinea capitis in pediatric populations. Patients appreciate the oral formulation’s convenience compared to topical regimens, though some report gastrointestinal side effects as a treatment challenge. The medication receives particular praise for its effectiveness in nail infections that have failed topical therapy, with many clinicians considering it a valuable option when newer antifungals are contraindicated or unavailable. Long-term safety data from decades of clinical use provides confidence in its appropriate use under medical supervision.