Griseofulvin — what it is and when you’d use it

Griseofulvin is an oral antifungal most commonly used for dermatophyte infections that affect hair and skin, especially tinea capitis (scalp ringworm). It’s an older drug but still useful when topical treatments won’t reach the infection—like hair follicles or deep scalp infections. If you’ve tried creams and they didn’t work, your doctor might suggest griseofulvin.

How griseofulvin is used

The medicine interferes with fungal cell division so the fungus can’t grow. Doctors usually prescribe it in oral tablet form. Common uses include tinea capitis (often in kids), widespread ringworm, and cases where topical therapy fails. Nail fungal infections can be treated, but griseofulvin is less effective than newer options and needs very long courses.

Typical dosing varies by formulation and age. For children with tinea capitis, treatment often runs 6–8 weeks; adults with skin infections may need 2–6 weeks. Nail infections may require many months of therapy. A practical tip: take griseofulvin with a fatty meal (milk, butter, or eggs) — fat increases absorption and helps the drug work better.

Safety, side effects, and interactions

Common side effects are mild: stomach upset, headache, and sometimes dizziness. Photosensitivity (sensitivity to sunlight) can occur—use sunscreen and protective clothing. More serious problems are rare but include liver inflammation, severe skin reactions, or neurological symptoms. Your doctor may check liver function if you’re on long-term therapy.

Griseofulvin is a strong inducer of liver enzymes (CYP450). That means it can reduce the effectiveness of other drugs—most importantly oral contraceptives, so consider backup birth control during treatment and for a short time after. It can also alter blood thinners like warfarin. Tell your provider about all medicines, including herbal supplements.

Don’t take griseofulvin during pregnancy. It can harm a fetus and reduce contraceptive safety. Breastfeeding? Discuss with your doctor—small amounts pass into breast milk and risks should be weighed.

Before you start: get a proper diagnosis. A simple KOH test or culture can confirm a dermatophyte infection. Over-the-counter creams won’t help scalp infections, so seeing a clinician matters. If you buy medication online, use a reputable pharmacy and a valid prescription—counterfeit or wrong-strength products are a real risk.

Looking for alternatives? Terbinafine and itraconazole often work better for nail infections and are preferred in many cases. Topical antifungals (clotrimazole, terbinafine cream) are fine for limited skin infections and avoid systemic risks.

Bottom line: griseofulvin still has a place—especially for scalp ringworm—but it requires the right diagnosis, proper dosing, and attention to interactions and safety. Talk openly with your clinician about risks, contraception, and monitoring while you take it.