How to use Gentian Violet Solution, Non-

Follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or our pharmacist.

Before use, clean the affected area, rinse well, and pat dry. Make sure the area is dry before using this medication. Using a cotton swab to avoid staining your hands, apply gentian violet to the affected area, usually once or twice a day or as directed by your doctor. Apply only to the affected area, and avoid surrounding healthy skin.

Wash hands immediately after use unless the area being treated includes the hands. Avoid getting the product in your eyes. If the medication gets into your eyes, rinse the area immediately with clean water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if your eye becomes irritated.

Do not cover the area with plastic or waterproof bandages. Covering the area may increase the risk of skin irritation.

This product is for use on the outside of the body only. Do not apply inside the mouth, nose, or ears unless directed by your doctor. This medication is a dye and will stain skin and clothing. Do not apply to open sores (skin ulcers). This may cause permanent “tattooing” of the skin.

If your doctor has prescribed this medication for areas in the mouth, you/your child must be careful to avoid swallowing the medication. If you have any questions about proper use, ask your health care professional.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, continue to use it until the full prescribed amount is finished, even if symptoms improve after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow the infection to return.

Inform your doctor if the condition does not improve in 3 days or if it worsens. If you think there may be a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.

Side Effects

Redness, swelling, or irritation at the application site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or our  pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Stop using this medication and tell your doctor if you have new signs of a skin infection (heat, tenderness, pus).

Stop using this medication and tell your doctor right away if this rare but serious side effect occurs: skin sores.

Skin sores are more likely to develop when the medication is applied to skin folds (e.g., between the toes, beneath the breasts). Be careful to apply only a small amount to skin fold areas, and allow to dry completely before putting on shoes or clothing.

A very serious allergic reaction to this product is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or our pharmacist.

Precautions

Before using gentian violet, tell your doctor or our pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other dyes; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

If you have a certain metabolic disease (porphyria), consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication.

It is unlikely that this product passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.