Why is this medication prescribed?

Gris-PEG is a brand name for the medication griseofulvin, which is commonly prescribed to treat fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails. It works by stopping the growth of fungi that cause infections such as ringworm, athlete’s foot, and jock itch.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Gris-PEG should be used:

• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment. Do not change the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor first.
• Take as Directed: Gris-PEG is usually taken orally with food to enhance absorption. It’s important to take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Complete Course: Complete the full course of treatment even if your symptoms improve before the infection is completely cleared. Fungal infections can sometimes be stubborn and may require several weeks of treatment to eradicate completely.
• Avoid Skipping Doses: Try not to skip doses. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• Monitor for Side Effects: While taking Gris-PEG, monitor yourself for any side effects such as nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, or rash. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, inform your doctor promptly.
• Avoid Alcohol: It’s generally recommended to avoid alcohol while taking Gris-PEG as it may increase the risk of certain side effects.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Make sure to inform any healthcare providers involved in your care that you are taking Gris-PEG, especially if you’re undergoing surgery or receiving other medical treatments.
• Storage: Store Gris-PEG at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children.

Always consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about how to use Gris-PEG properly.

Other uses for this medicine

Other uses for Gris-PEG beyond fungal infections may include its off-label use for certain dermatological conditions. However, any such use should be under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to consider while taking Gris-PEG include:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Gris-PEG should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before taking this medication if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.
• Liver function: Gris-PEG may affect liver function, so it’s important to monitor liver enzymes during treatment, especially in patients with pre-existing liver conditions.
• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies to griseofulvin or any other medications before starting treatment with Gris-PEG.
• Drug interactions: Gris-PEG may interact with certain medications, including oral contraceptives and warfarin (a blood thinner). Inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, herbal supplements, and vitamins.
• Photosensitivity: Gris-PEG may increase sensitivity to sunlight, so it’s advisable to avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) light while taking this medication. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.
• Children and elderly: Use caution when prescribing Gris-PEG to children and elderly patients, as they may be more susceptible to certain side effects or may require dosage adjustments.
• Alcohol: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking Gris-PEG, as it may increase the risk of certain side effects and liver toxicity.

Always follow your doctor’s advice and instructions regarding the use of Gris-PEG, and inform them of any medical conditions or medications you are taking to ensure safe and effective treatment.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Gris-PEG. However, taking Gris-PEG with food, especially fatty meals, may enhance its absorption. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the timing of Gris-PEG with respect to meals.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Gris-PEG, 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. It’s essential to maintain a consistent dosing schedule to ensure the effectiveness of the medication. If you have any concerns about missed doses or dosing instructions, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Gris-PEG (griseofulvin) can cause various side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects may include:

• Gastrointestinal symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach upset are common side effects of Gris-PEG. Taking the medication with food can help reduce these symptoms.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches while taking Gris-PEG.
• Dizziness: Gris-PEG may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly when standing up quickly from a sitting or lying position.
• Skin reactions: Skin reactions such as rash, itching, or hives may occur in some people.
• Sensitivity to sunlight: Gris-PEG can increase sensitivity to sunlight, leading to sunburn more easily. It’s important to use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.
• Liver problems: Gris-PEG may affect liver function and could cause liver toxicity in some individuals. Symptoms of liver problems include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, abdominal pain, or unusual fatigue. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
• Blood disorders: Rarely, Gris-PEG may cause blood disorders such as leukopenia (low white blood cell count) or thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). Symptoms may include unusual bruising or bleeding, frequent infections, or signs of anemia (e.g., fatigue, pale skin).
• Allergic reactions: Serious allergic reactions to Gris-PEG are rare but possible. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or severe dizziness.

It’s important to report any unusual or persistent side effects to your doctor promptly. They can provide guidance on managing side effects or adjust your treatment as needed. Additionally, if you have any concerns about potential side effects of Gris-PEG, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist before starting the medication.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Gris-PEG:

• Storage:
  • Store Gris-PEG at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
  • Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children and pets.
  • Avoid storing Gris-PEG in the bathroom, as moisture can degrade the medication.
  • Do not freeze Gris-PEG.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of unused or expired Gris-PEG 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.
  • Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for guidance on safe disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an overdose or emergency, such as accidental ingestion of a large amount of Gris-PEG, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center.
• Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, dizziness, or seizures.
• Provide as much information as possible to medical personnel about the medication ingested, including the dosage and timing of ingestion.

What other information should I know?

• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including doctors, dentists, and pharmacists, that you are taking Gris-PEG.
• Attend all scheduled appointments with your doctor for monitoring of your condition and response to treatment.
• Keep a list of all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, herbal supplements, and vitamins, and show it to your doctor or pharmacist.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding the dosage, frequency, and duration of Gris-PEG treatment.
• Do not share Gris-PEG with others, even if they have similar symptoms, as it may not be suitable for their condition.
• If you experience any new or worsening symptoms while taking Gris-PEG, report them to your doctor promptly.

By following these guidelines for storage, disposal, handling emergencies/overdose, and other important information, you can use Gris-PEG safely and effectively as prescribed by your healthcare provider.