Gentian Violet (Topical Route)

1 What is Gentian Violet (Topical Route)?

Generic: Gentian Violet (Topical Route)

Gentian violet is drug used to treat fungal infections. Topical form of gentian violet is used to treat fungal infection of the skin and inside of mouth (thrush).

Gentian violet is available without a prescription.

This product is available in the following dosage forms:

  • Solution

2 What to Know Before Using

Before using Gentian Violet (Topical Route), you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it. Your doctor will consider these risks before prescribing the drug and will inform you about them. Following factors should be considered before taking this drug:

  • Allergies: If you have had an allergic reaction to this drug in the past, inform your doctor. You should also tell your healthcare provider if you are allergic to any other drugs or food products.
  • Age specific problems: The data regarding the effects of this medicine specific to the pediatric age group is not yet available. Its safety and efficacy has not been established in children younger than 12 years of age. 
  • The studies specific to the geriatric age group have not been carried out, that would limit the use of this drug in old age group.
  • Pregnancy: Regarding the safety of usage of this drug during pregnancy, it comes under “C” category, which means that clinical trials on animals have revealed harmful effects to the developing fetus or relevant studies have not been performed.
  • Drug Interactions: Certain drugs should not be used together because they can interact inside the body which can have a harmful effect. On the other hand certain drugs are allowed to be used together. So, you should tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking. If there is a chance of interaction between those two drugs, the doctor may change the dose or may prescribe an alternative drug. 

Furthermore, certain medications should not be taken with alcohol or tobacco, which may also result in harmful interactions. Ask your doctor about the concurrent use of this drug along with alcohol or tobacco. 

You should also inform your doctor about any other medical condition you may be suffering from, especially:

  • Ulcerative skin condition on the face—Use of gentian violet can cause tattooing of the area

3 Proper Usage

To avoid adverse effects, Gentian Violet (topical route) should be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Apply gentian violet to cover only the affected area by using a cotton swab. Avoid swallowing the medication if you are using this medicine for the oral cavity. Make sure you understand how to apply the medicine especially if you are applying to a child. 

Do not overuse or misuse this drug and do not use it longer than the recommended time. Read all the instructions mentioned in the medication guide. 

Do not miss any dose. The dose of this drug varies according to the condition of each person. The number of doses per day, the time interval between the doses and the length of time you have to take the medicine depends on your condition individually and all these factors should only be determined by your healthcare provider. Follow each and every instruction of your doctor and also read the label carefully.

In case you miss one dose of this drug, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your subsequent dose, you can then skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

Storage: This medicine should be stored at room temperature within a closed container, away from heat, direct light and moisture. Keep this drug out of the reach of children. Do not store expired or outdated medicines or the medicine no longer needed. 

4 Precautions to Take

Before using Gentian Violet (topical route), there are some precautions you must take.

Gentian violet is a stain and it will leave a color on your clothes. Avoid getting this medicine on your clothes.

5 Potential Side Effects

As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Gentian Violet (topical route). Although these side effects may occur only in a handful of patients but if they do occur, contact your physician immediately.

Seek medical help instantly, if you experience any of the symptoms while on this medication. Also contact your healthcare professional immediately, if have overdosed on this drug. 

If any of these side effects becomes more bothersome or does not go away, contact your doctor.

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