Griseofulvin is an antifungal antibiotic that fights infections caused by fungus.

Griseofulvin is used to treat infections such as ringworm, athlete's foot, jock itch, and fungal infections of the scalp, fingernails, or toenails.

Griseofulvin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

You should not use griseofulvin if you are allergic to it, or if you have liver failure, porphyria, or if you are pregnant.

Before you take griseofulvin, tell your doctor if you have liver disease, heart disease, lupus, or an allergy to penicillin.

Avoid exposure to sunlight or tanning beds. Griseofulvin can make you sunburn more easily. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors.

Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of griseofulvin.

Take this medication for the full prescribed length of time. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. Skipping doses may also increase your risk of further infection that is resistant to antibiotics. Griseofulvin will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.

You should not use griseofulvin if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

• liver failure;

• porphyria (a genetic enzyme disorder that causes symptoms affecting the skin or nervous system); or

• if you are pregnant.

To make sure you can safely take griseofulvin, tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• liver disease;

• heart disease;

• lupus; or

• an allergy to penicillin.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether griseofulvin will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

It is not known whether griseofulvin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.