Why is this medication prescribed?
Fulvicin P/G is a brand name for griseofulvin, an antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails such as ringworm, athlete’s foot, jock itch, and fungal infections of the scalp and nails (onychomycosis). It works by stopping the growth of fungi.
How should this medicine be used?
Here’s how Fulvicin P/G should be used:
- Follow the prescription: Always use Fulvicin P/G exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than the prescribed dose, and do not stop taking it even if your symptoms improve unless instructed by your doctor.
- Take with food or milk: Fulvicin P/G is usually taken with food or milk to increase absorption and decrease the risk of stomach upset. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding food and medication interactions.
- Take consistently: Take Fulvicin P/G at the same time(s) each day to maintain a consistent level of medication in your bloodstream.
- Complete the course: Finish the entire course of medication even if your symptoms improve before the medication is finished. Failure to complete the course may result in the infection returning or becoming resistant to the medication.
- Avoid alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Fulvicin P/G as it may increase the risk of liver problems.
- Keep up with appointments: Keep all appointments with your doctor while taking Fulvicin P/G. Your doctor may need to monitor your progress and perform laboratory tests to check for side effects.
- Inform your doctor: Inform your doctor about any other medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you are taking, as they may interact with Fulvicin P/G.
- Store properly: Store Fulvicin P/G at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
- Topical application: If Fulvicin P/G is prescribed for skin or scalp infections, follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist regarding application, frequency, and duration.
Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about how to use Fulvicin P/G.
Other uses for this medicine
Fulvicin P/G (griseofulvin) may have additional off-label uses, but it’s primarily prescribed for fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails. Off-label uses might include certain fungal infections not typically mentioned in official prescribing information, as determined by a healthcare provider.
What special precautions should I follow?
Special precautions to follow when using Fulvicin P/G include:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Fulvicin P/G may not be suitable for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to potential risks to the fetus or infant.
- Liver function: Fulvicin P/G may affect liver function. Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease or if you experience symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, abdominal pain, or persistent nausea and vomiting while taking Fulvicin P/G.
- Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies to griseofulvin or any other medications. Fulvicin P/G may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
- Medical history: Inform your doctor of your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of lupus, porphyria, or if you have ever had an allergic reaction to griseofulvin or similar medications.
- Sun exposure: Griseofulvin can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight, sunlamps, or tanning beds while taking Fulvicin P/G. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.
- Interactions: Fulvicin P/G may interact with other medications, including oral contraceptives (birth control pills), warfarin (a blood thinner), and certain antifungal medications. Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
- Children: Fulvicin P/G may be prescribed to children, but dosing will be based on weight and age. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when giving Fulvicin P/G to children.
- Driving and operating machinery: Fulvicin P/G may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some individuals. Use caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
- Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Fulvicin P/G, as it may increase the risk of liver problems.
Always follow your doctor’s instructions and discuss any concerns or questions you may have regarding Fulvicin P/G and its precautions.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
There are no specific dietary instructions associated with Fulvicin P/G. However, it’s generally recommended to take Fulvicin P/G with food or milk to increase absorption and decrease the risk of stomach upset.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
If you miss a dose of Fulvicin P/G, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
What side effects can this medication cause?
Fulvicin P/G (griseofulvin) may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Fulvicin P/G include:
- Nausea and vomiting: Some individuals may experience nausea or vomiting, especially when starting treatment. Taking Fulvicin P/G with food or milk may help alleviate these symptoms.
- Headache: Headaches are a relatively common side effect of Fulvicin P/G. Ensure you stay hydrated and consider over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary (consult with your doctor first).
- Diarrhea or upset stomach: Fulvicin P/G may cause gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea or upset stomach in some individuals.
- Dizziness or drowsiness: Some people may experience dizziness or drowsiness while taking Fulvicin P/G. Use caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
- Rash or itching: Skin reactions such as rash or itching may occur with Fulvicin P/G use. If you experience any skin changes, inform your doctor.
- Photosensitivity: Griseofulvin can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, potentially leading to sunburn more easily. Take precautions to protect your skin from sun exposure.
- Changes in taste: Fulvicin P/G may cause changes in taste perception, leading to a metallic taste in the mouth or other alterations in taste sensation.
- Liver problems: In rare cases, Fulvicin P/G may cause liver problems. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, abdominal pain, or persistent nausea and vomiting.
- Allergic reactions: Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Fulvicin P/G. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
- Other side effects: Other less common side effects of Fulvicin P/G may include fatigue, confusion, trouble sleeping, or mood changes.
It’s important to note that this is not a complete list of side effects associated with Fulvicin P/G. If you experience any persistent or severe side effects while taking this medication, contact your doctor or healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.
What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?
Storage and Disposal of Fulvicin P/G:
- Storage:
- Store Fulvicin P/G at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
- Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
- Do not store Fulvicin P/G in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink, where it may be exposed to moisture.
- Disposal:
- Dispose of Fulvicin P/G properly according to local regulations or guidelines.
- Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.
- If you have unused or expired Fulvicin P/G, consult with your pharmacist or local waste disposal company on how to safely dispose of it.
In case of emergency/overdose
- In case of an overdose, seek emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center immediately.
- Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, and confusion.
- Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by medical personnel.
What other information should I know?
- Keep all appointments with your doctor while taking Fulvicin P/G. Your doctor may need to monitor your progress and perform laboratory tests to check for side effects.
- Inform your doctor or dentist about all the medications you are taking before undergoing any surgical procedures or dental work.
- Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Fulvicin P/G, as it may increase the risk of liver problems.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding any dietary restrictions or precautions while taking Fulvicin P/G.
- If you are unsure about anything related to Fulvicin P/G, including its usage, side effects, or interactions, consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.
It’s essential to follow all instructions provided by your healthcare provider and medication labels when using Fulvicin P/G to ensure safe and effective treatment. If you have any concerns or questions, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for assistance.