Gris-PEG

Generic name: Griseofulvin ultramicrosize

What is Gris-PEG?

Gris-PEG is used to treat the fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails known as ringworm, including: athlete's foot (tinea pedis); barber's itch (tinea barbae or inflammation of the facial hair follicles); ringworm of the body (tinea corporis); ringworm of the groin and thigh (tinea cruris); ringworm of the nails (tinea unguium or onychomycosis); ringworm of the scalp (tinea capitis)

What is the most important information I should know about Gris-PEG?

To clear up your infection completely, continue taking Gris-PEG as prescribed until your doctor tells you to stop. Although some improvement may appear within a few days, you need to take Gris-PEG for an extended period.

Who should not take Gris-PEG?

Do not take Gris-PEG if you are pregnant, or if you have liver problems or porphyria (an inherited disorder of the liver or bone marrow).

Do not take this medication if you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Gris-PEG or other drugs of this type.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Gris-PEG?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Gris-PEG. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver disease, if you are sensitive to or allergic to penicillin, or if you have porphyria (an inherited disorder of the liver or bone marrow).

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Gris-PEG must be taken until the infection resolves.

Athlete's Foot, Ringworm of the Nails

Adults: The usual dosage is 750 milligrams (mg) a day divided into smaller doses. The usual treatment period for athlete's foot is 4 to 8 weeks; for ringworm of the nails, at least 4 months.

Ringworm of the Body, Groin and Thigh, or Scalp

Adults: The usual dose is 375 mg as a single dose or divided dose. The usual treatment period for ringworm of the body, groin and thigh is 2 to 4 weeks; for ringworm of the scalp, it is 4 to 6 weeks.

Children: A single daily dose is effective in children with ringworm of the scalp.

The usual dose is 3.3. mg per pound of body weight per day. Children weighing 35-60 pounds will require 125-187.5 mg a day; children weighing more than 60 pounds will require 187.5-375 mg a day.

No dosage has been established for children 2 years of age and under.

How should I take Gris-PEG?

Take Gris-PEG exactly as directed by your doctor. Take all of the medicine that has been prescribed for you even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may begin to improve before the infection is completely treated.

Gris-PEG may be taken with or without food. Gris-PEG may be swallowed whole or crushed and sprinkled onto 1 tablespoonful of applesauce and swallowed immediately without chewing. To minimize stomach irritation and help your body absorb the drug, take Gris-PEG at meal times or with food or whole milk.

Observe good hygiene during treatment to help control infection and prevent reinfection.

What should I avoid while taking Gris-PEG?

Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight or artificial sunlight. Gris-PEG increases sensitivity to sunlight and severe burning may result. Wear sunscreen or protective clothing when you are outside.

Avoid alcohol while taking Gris-PEG. The combination may cause flushing and a fast heart rate.

Men should wait at least 6 months after finishing therapy with Gris-PEG before they father a child.

Women should avoid becoming pregnant while they are taking the drug.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Gris-PEG?

If Gris-PEG is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Gris-PEG with the following: alcohol, barbiturates, blood-thinners such as warfarin, oral contraceptives

What are the possible side effects of Gris-PEG?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, fungal infection of the mouth (oral thrush), headache, hives, indigestion, insomnia, mental confusion, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes

Notify your doctor if you develop lupus erythematosus (a form or rheumatism) or a lupus-like condition. Signs and symptoms of lupus include arthritis, red butterfly rash over the nose and cheeks, tiredness, weakness, sensitivity to sunlight, and skin eruptions.

Can I receive Gris-PEG if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Do not take Gris-PEG if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant while taking Gris-PEG, notify your doctor immediately. There is a potential hazard to the developing baby. If you are breastfeeding, consult with your doctor before taking Gris-PEG.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Gris-PEG?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Gris-PEG?

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container protected from light.