From the FDA Drug Label
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Accurate diagnosis of the infecting organism is essential. Representative treatment periods are tinea capitis, 4 to 6 weeks; tinea corporis, 2 to 4 weeks; Adults: 0. 5 g daily (125 mg four times a day, 250 mg twice a day, or 500 mg/day). Pediatric patients (older than 2 years): A dosage of 10 mg/kg daily is usually adequate
- Griseofulvin is used to treat ringworm (tinea corporis).
- The recommended treatment period for tinea corporis is 2 to 4 weeks.
- The usual adult dosage is 0.5 g daily, and for pediatric patients older than 2 years, the dosage is 10 mg/kg daily 1.
- Griseofulvin is indicated for the treatment of dermatophyte infections of the skin, including tinea corporis 1.
From the Research
Oral treatment for ringworm should be initiated with itraconazole, as it has been shown to be the most effective option in recent studies. According to the most recent and highest quality study available, which was published in 2020 2, itraconazole demonstrated superior efficacy compared to fluconazole, griseofulvin, and terbinafine in the treatment of chronic and chronic relapsing dermatophytosis in India. The study found that itraconazole had a cure rate of 66% at 8 weeks, which was significantly higher than the other treatment options.
When considering treatment options for ringworm, it is essential to prioritize medications that have been shown to be effective in recent studies. Itraconazole, in particular, has been demonstrated to be a highly effective treatment option, with a favorable safety profile and minimal adverse effects. In contrast, other medications such as griseofulvin and terbinafine may have lower cure rates and more significant adverse effects.
Some key points to consider when treating ringworm with oral antifungals include:
- Completing the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve early
- Avoiding sharing personal items to prevent spread
- Washing bedding and clothing regularly in hot water
- Informing your doctor about all medications you're taking, as some may require liver function monitoring and can interact with other drugs
- Considering topical treatments alongside oral therapy for faster symptom relief
It is also important to note that the effectiveness of different treatment options may vary depending on the specific type of ringworm and the individual patient's circumstances. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for each patient. Overall, itraconazole is the recommended first-line treatment for ringworm due to its high efficacy and favorable safety profile 2.