Griseofulvin: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Griseofulvin is an oral antifungal. It is a prescription medicine used for ringworm of the scalp, skin and nails. In Pakistan it is available as tablets and suspension, made by 5 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.
How Griseofulvin works
Griseofulvin is taken up into the keratin of newly growing skin, hair and nails, where it stops fungal cells from dividing. As the infected tissue grows out and is replaced, the new growth resists infection, which is why treatment takes time.
What is Griseofulvin used for?
- Ringworm of the scalp
- Skin
- Nails
Griseofulvin is used to treat fungal infections of the scalp, skin, hair and nails, especially scalp ringworm (tinea capitis) in children, where creams alone cannot reach the infection in the hair roots. It works only against dermatophyte fungi and does not treat yeast infections such as thrush. Treatment often needs to continue for several weeks or months.
Side effects of Griseofulvin
Possible side effects of Griseofulvin include:
- Headache
- Nausea or stomach upset
- Diarrhoea
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight
- Tiredness or dizziness
Stop taking it and get medical help if you develop a severe or blistering rash, yellow skin or eyes, a fever with sore throat, or confusion.
Precautions and warnings
- Take it with or after a fatty meal, which helps the body absorb it.
- Women must not become pregnant during treatment and for at least one month afterwards, and men should not father a child during treatment and for six months afterwards.
- It can make hormonal contraceptives less effective, so use an additional barrier method, and it can also reduce the effect of warfarin.
- Avoid alcohol, as griseofulvin can strengthen its effects, and do not drive if you feel dizzy or drowsy.
- Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, porphyria or lupus, and complete the full course even when the skin looks better.
Frequently asked questions about Griseofulvin
What is the price of Griseofulvin in Pakistan?
At Medimart, Griseofulvin products currently in stock range from Rs 56 to Rs 544 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Griful 500mg Tablet at Rs 56. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.Which brands of Griseofulvin are available in Pakistan?
Griseofulvin is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Grisol (Lisko), Griful (Derma Techno), Fungivin (Ethical Laboratories), Grivin (Glaxo Smithkline Ltd) and Gryso (Platinum).Do I need a prescription for Griseofulvin?
Yes. Griseofulvin is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.
Can Griseofulvin be used during pregnancy?
Women must not become pregnant during treatment and for at least one month afterwards, and men should not father a child during treatment and for six months afterwards.
Are all Griseofulvin brands the same?
Brands that contain the same amount of Griseofulvin in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.
Griseofulvin brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 6 products containing Griseofulvin from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
