Gentian violet (Topical)

Gentian violet is part of a group of medicines known as antifungals. Topical gentian violet is used to treat certain types of fungal infections in the mouth (thrush) and on the skin.

You can get gentian violet without a prescription.

Gentian violet will stain your skin and clothes. Do not let the medicine touch your clothing.

In deciding to use a medicine, you and your doctor must consider the risks of taking the medicine compared to the benefits it may provide. For this medicine, keep the following in mind:

Allergies

Inform your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reactions to this medicine or any other medicines. Also, let your healthcare professional know about any other types of allergies, like those to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

There is no specific information comparing the use of this medicine in children to its use in other age groups, but it is not expected to cause different side effects or problems in children than it does in adults.

Geriatric

Many medicines have not been studied specifically in older adults. Therefore, it may not be known if they work the same way as they do in younger adults. Although there is no specific information comparing the use of this medicine in older people to its use in other age groups, it is not expected to cause different side effects or problems in older people than it does in younger adults.

Interactions with Medicines

Some medicines should never be used together, while in other situations, two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction could happen. In these cases, your doctor may want to adjust the dose or take other precautions. Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines.

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

Some medicines should not be used while eating or around the time of eating certain foods because interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also lead to interactions. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Other Medical Problems

Having other medical problems may affect how you can use this medicine. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any other medical issues, especially:

• Ulcerative skin condition on the face—Using gentian violet may cause tattooing of that area.

Along with its necessary effects, a medicine can cause some unwanted effects. Not all of these side effects will happen, but if they do, they may require medical attention.

Contact your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

• Skin irritation that was not present before using this medicine

Other side effects not listed may also happen in some patients. If you notice any other effects, talk to your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Available Dosage Forms:

• Solution

Therapeutic Class: Antifungal

Using a cotton swab, apply enough gentian violet to cover only the affected area.

If you are applying this medicine to affected areas in the mouth, avoid swallowing any of the medicine.

If you are using this medicine in a child's mouth, make sure you understand exactly how to apply it so that it is not swallowed. If you have any questions about this, check with your health care professional.

Do not apply an occlusive dressing (airtight covering, such as kitchen plastic wrap) over this medicine. It may cause irritation of the skin.

To help clear up your infection completely, keep using this medicine for the full time of treatment, even if your condition has improved. Do not miss any doses.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• For topical solution dosage form: For fungus infections: Adults and children—Apply to the affected area(s) of the skin two or three times a day for three days.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.