CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Gigi Davidson, Fear Free,
Medication: Griseofulvin
Medication: Griseofulvin
Your dog has been prescribed griseofulvin for the treatment of a fungal skin infection called dermatophytosis.
Key points:
• Antifungal.
• Contraindicated for use in pregnant animals.
• Should not be handled by pregnant women.
• Not licensed for use in dogs. Your veterinarian will advise you about the off-license use of this medication.
• Ensure that the correct configuration of griseofulvin has been dispensed as dosing schemes are very different for each dosage form (e.g. microsize vs ultramicrosize).
• Cats are particularly sensitive to the adverse effects of griseofulvin.
• Dosage: once daily.
This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist.
Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.
Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Griseofulvin (griz-ee-oh-ful-vin).
Brand name
- Fulvicin® (human drug).
- Gris-Peg® (human drug).
- Grisovin® (human drug).
Class of medication
- Anti-fungal.
Storage
- Store at room temperature.
Why has my dog been prescribed griseofulvin?
Your veterinarian has prescribed griseofulvin for the treatment of a fungal infection.
How is the medication given?
Griseofulvin is given orally (as tablets or liquid). It is administered once daily with a fatty meal. Food ensures better absorption of griseofulvin into the blood stream. Tablets can be administered directly into your dog’s mouth or along with some food.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Dosage forms of griseofulvin are not interchangeable. Administering the ultramicrosize form in dosages intended for the microsize form can result in severe liver toxicity and death.
Griseofulvin may cause birth deformities (especially in cats), so should not be used in pregnant animals. It may reduce sperm production in uncastrated male dogs. Tumors have developed in laboratory animals given griseofulvin long term.
Anorexia (reduced appetite), vomiting and diarrhea are possible side-effects of griseofulvin and should be reported to your veterinary surgeon. Your pet may be able to continue with the drug, if side-effects are mild, but it’s best to let your veterinarian know as soon as possible, so that they can decide whether additional medications or different medications are required.
Griseofulvin should not be used in animals that have previously had an allergic reaction to griseofulvin.
This medication should be used cautiously in animals with liver disease.
Griseofulvin may decrease the effectiveness of anti-coagulant drugs, such as warfarin and the concurrent use of barbiturate drugs may decrease the effectiveness of griseofulvin.
The lack of a licensed product containing this drug means that your veterinarian may be unable to give you detailed information as to the safe use of this drug.
How long will my dog need to receive this medication?
Griseofulvin tablets and liquid should be administered according to your veterinarian’s instructions. The treatment course usually extends for 3 to 4 weeks but may extend for much longer periods.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused griseofulvin safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save griseofulvin for future use or give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period.
My dog is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Griseofulvin should only be given to the dog that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice.
If accidentally consumed by a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center.
Will my dog need to be monitored while on griseofulvin?
Your veterinarian may need to check your pet during treatment and may request blood and/or urine tests if they have any concerns.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on griseofulvin can be found on the package insert.
Europe & UK
- There are no veterinary products containing griseofulvin licensed for use in dogs in the UK or Europe.
US
- There are no veterinary products containing griseofulvin licensed for use in dogs in the US. Many griseofulvin products licensed for humans are no longer available.
Always follow the recommended dosage and contact your veterinary team or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your dog’s medication.