Griseofulvin

Definition

Griseofulvin is an antifungal medication derived from the mold Penicillium griseofulvum, primarily used to treat dermatophyte infections of the skin, hair, and nails. It works by inhibiting fungal cell division, making it effective against various fungal pathogens. Its significance in human health highlights the important role fungi play in medicine, particularly in combating infections caused by other fungi.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Griseofulvin is primarily indicated for infections like ringworm (tinea) and has been used since the 1950s.
2. It is usually administered orally and requires consistent dosing over several weeks to effectively clear the infection.
3. The mechanism of action involves disrupting mitosis in fungal cells, preventing them from multiplying and spreading.
4. Griseofulvin can interact with other medications and may have side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort and sensitivity to sunlight.
5. It is particularly useful for infections resistant to topical treatments, showcasing the need for systemic antifungal therapy in severe cases.

Review Questions

• How does griseofulvin inhibit fungal cell growth, and why is this mechanism important for treating dermatophyte infections?
  • Griseofulvin inhibits fungal cell growth by disrupting mitosis, specifically targeting the spindle formation necessary for cell division. This mechanism is crucial for treating dermatophyte infections because it not only stops the proliferation of existing fungi but also helps prevent the spread of the infection to surrounding tissues. By halting the growth cycle, griseofulvin allows the body's immune system to more effectively eliminate the infection.
• Discuss the potential side effects of griseofulvin and their implications for patient management during treatment.
  • Griseofulvin can lead to several side effects, including gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, dizziness, and photosensitivity. These side effects necessitate careful patient management during treatment, as they can impact adherence to the medication regimen. Patients may require counseling on how to minimize these effects, such as taking the medication with food or avoiding sun exposure, ensuring they continue treatment effectively for the required duration.
• Evaluate the role of griseofulvin in modern medicine, considering its origin from fungi and its application against fungal infections.
  • Griseofulvin exemplifies the vital role fungi play in modern medicine, serving as a powerful antifungal agent derived from natural sources. Its ability to effectively treat dermatophyte infections underscores the importance of fungal metabolites in pharmaceutical development. As resistance to topical treatments becomes more common, griseofulvin's systemic application highlights an ongoing need for innovative antifungal therapies. Furthermore, it illustrates how understanding fungal biology can lead to effective treatments that address significant public health issues related to fungal infections.

Related terms

Dermatophytes: Fungi that cause infections in the skin, hair, and nails, including species like Trichophyton and Microsporum.

Antifungal: A class of medications used to treat fungal infections by targeting various stages of the fungal life cycle.

Penicillium: A genus of fungi that includes species used in the production of antibiotics and other pharmaceuticals, such as penicillin.