Griseofulvin
Also known as: Fulvicin, AmTech Griseofulvin, Grifulvin V, Gris-PEG
> **Important:** Griseofulvin can cause birth defects. Pregnant women should avoid handling this medication, or wear gloves if administration is necessary. * **Administration:** Always give this medication with a **fatty meal** (e.g., a small amount of canned food, butter, or corn oil) to help the body absorb it properly. * **Compliance:** Ringworm treatment takes time. Continue giving the medication exactly as prescribed, even if the pet looks better. Stopping too early can cause the infection to return. * **Environmental Control:** Ringworm is highly contagious to other pets and humans. Follow your veterinarian's instructions for disinfecting the home, destroying old bedding, and isolating the pet if necessary. * **Side Effects:** Watch for loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea. If your pet seems lethargic, uncoordinated, or develops any unusual symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Susceptible dermatophytic infections
- Susceptible dermatophytic infections
- Susceptible dermatophytic infections
- Feline eosinophilic granuloma complex
- Susceptible dermatophytic infections
- Susceptible dermatophytic infections
- Susceptible dermatophytic infections
- Susceptible dermatophytic infections (Ratites)
- Susceptible dermatophytic infections
- Advanced dermatophytosis (Rabbits)
- Susceptible dermatophytic infections (Chinchillas)
- Susceptible dermatophytic infections (Gerbils, Guinea pigs, Hamsters, Rats)
- Susceptible dermatophytic infections (Mice)
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Anorexia
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Anemia
- Neutropenia
- Leukopenia
- Thrombocytopenia
- Depression
- Ataxia
- Hepatotoxicity
- Dermatitis/photosensitivity
- Toxic epidermal necrolysis
- Teratogenesis
Cautions & contraindications
- Pregnancy (known teratogen)
- Known hypersensitivity to griseofulvin
- Hepatocellular failure
- Horses intended for food
- **Important Warnings:** * **Feline Sensitivity:** Cats, particularly kittens, are highly susceptible to adverse effects (e.g., bone marrow depression), likely due to slower glucuronide conjugation. Monitor carefully. * **FIV Testing:** Cats should be tested for FIV before initiating therapy due to the drug's potential neutropenic or panleukopenic effects. * **Teratogenicity:** Griseofulvin is a known teratogen (causes cleft palate, skeletal/brain malformations). It is strictly contraindicated in pregnant animals. It may also inhibit spermatogenesis. * **Absorption:** Must be given with a fatty meal to ensure adequate GI absorption.
Drug interactions
- Alcohol: Griseofulvin may potentiate the effects of alcohol.
- Aspirin: Griseofulvin may decrease salicylate levels.
- Cyclosporine: Griseofulvin may decrease cyclosporine levels.
- Phenobarbital: May decrease griseofulvin blood concentrations by inducing hepatic microsomal enzymes and/or reducing absorption. Dosage adjustment may be necessary.
- Theophylline: May decrease theophylline half-life and levels in some patients.
- Warfarin: May reduce the anticoagulant activity of coumarin anticoagulants; adjustment may be required.
Frequently asked questions
What is Griseofulvin used for in pets?
> **Important:** Griseofulvin can cause birth defects. Pregnant women should avoid handling this medication, or wear gloves if administration is necessary. * **Administration:** Always give this medication with a **fatty meal** (e.g., a small amount of canned food, butter, or corn oil) to help the body absorb it properly. * **Compliance:** Ringworm treatment takes time. Continue giving the medication exactly as prescribed, even if the pet looks better. Stopping too early can cause the infection to return. * **Environmental Control:** Ringworm is highly contagious to other pets and humans. Follow your veterinarian's instructions for disinfecting the home, destroying old bedding, and isolating the pet if necessary. * **Side Effects:** Watch for loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea. If your pet seems lethargic, uncoordinated, or develops any unusual symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Is Griseofulvin safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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