Gentian Violet

Indications

Gentian Violet is a purple antiseptic dye applied to the skin. It is used for minor fungal skin infections (such as candida in skin folds), minor bacterial skin infections and small cuts and abrasions. It is sometimes used in the mouth for thrush, but only when a doctor advises it.

How It Works

It binds to and damages the cell walls of many fungi and bacteria, especially Candida yeast and gram-positive bacteria, stopping their growth.

Dosage and Administration

• Clean and dry the area. Using a cotton bud, apply a thin layer of the solution only to the affected skin, usually 2 to 3 times a day.
• Use for a few days only. If there is no improvement within 1 week, see a doctor.
• Use in the mouth or on babies only as advised by a doctor, and never more than prescribed.
• Do not swallow. Keep away from the eyes.

Interactions

No important interactions with medicines taken by mouth are known. Avoid using other creams or lotions on the same area at the same time unless a doctor advises.

Contraindications

• Allergy to gentian violet.
• Large open wounds, ulcers or raw, weeping skin.
• Use on the face or near the eyes, as it can stain permanently.

Side Effects

It stains skin, clothes and bedding purple; skin staining fades over several days. It may cause burning, irritation or peeling, and with use in the mouth it can cause mouth ulcers.

Stop using it and get urgent medical help if you have severe redness, blistering or swelling, signs of an allergic reaction (swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing), or if the solution is swallowed and causes vomiting, stomach pain or throat irritation, or gets into the eyes and causes pain.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Information is limited. Use only on small areas for a short time and ask a doctor first. When breastfeeding, do not apply it to the nipple or breast unless a doctor advises it, because the baby could swallow it.

Precautions and Warnings

Some regulators have restricted gentian violet because laboratory studies raised concerns about long-term safety, so avoid long or repeated use and large areas. Protect clothes and surfaces from staining. Keep away from children's mouths and eyes.

Overdose

On the skin, too much mainly causes irritation and staining. If swallowed, it may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and mouth or throat irritation. Rinse the mouth and seek medical advice.

Therapeutic Class

Topical antiseptic and antifungal (triarylmethane dye).

Storage

Store below 30°C with the cap tightly closed, away from light and out of the reach of children.