Generic
Gentian Violet
4 brands available in the market
At a glance
Gentian Violet is a topical antiseptic used to help prevent infection in minor cuts, scrapes and burns.
Description
Introduction: Gentian Violet is a topical antiseptic used as first aid to help prevent infection in minor cuts, scrapes and burns.
How it works: Gentian Violet dissociates into positive and negative ions in aqueous solutions that penetrate through the wall and membrane of both gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial cells. It interacts with lipopolysaccharide, peptidoglycan and DNA of bacterial cells and inhibits cell growth.
Important Information: Clean the affected area and apply a small amount 1 to 3 times daily. May be covered with a sterile bandage. Do not use longer than 1 week. Do not apply to ulcerative lesions (may cause tattooing of the skin).
Indications
- Minor cuts
- Scrapes
- Burns
Therapeutic class
Crystal violet/ Gentian violet preparations
Pharmacological class
Topical Antiseptic
Pharmacology
Gentian Violet dissociates into positive (GV+) and negative ions (Cl-) in aqueous solutions that penetrate through the wall and membrane of both gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial cells. The GV+ interacts with negatively charged components of bacterial cells including lipopolysaccharide, peptidoglycan and DNA. A similar process takes place for fungal cells. Because Gentian violet is a mutagen and mitotic poison, cell growth is consequently inhibited.
Mechanism of action
Gentian Violet interacts with bacterial and fungal DNA to inhibit cell division and prevent cell growth.
Dosage
Adult Dose:
- Clean the affected area
- Apply a small amount 1 to 3 times daily
- May be covered with a sterile bandage
Administration
For external use only. Clean the affected area and apply a small amount. May be covered with a sterile bandage if needed.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and follow your regular schedule.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Redness
- Irritation
- Swelling
- Pain
- If infection occurs, condition persists or worsens
Precautions & warnings
Precautions:
- Stop use if the condition persists or gets worse.
- Do not use longer than 1 week.
- Do not apply to ulcerative lesions (may cause tattooing of the skin).
Contraindications
Contraindications:
- Ulcerative lesions - may cause tattooing of the skin
Drug interactions
Drug Interactions: No known drug interactions and none well documented.
Food interactions
Food Interactions: No interaction found/established.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Pregnancy Category - Not Classified. FDA has not yet classified the drug into a specified pregnancy category.
Pregnancy Category: NA — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Consult your doctor before use during breastfeeding.
Pediatric use
Pediatric Use: Use as per doctor's advice for children.
Geriatric use
Geriatric Use: Use as per doctor's advice for elderly patients.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal & Hepatic Impairment: No known restrictions (minimal systemic absorption due to topical use).
Overdose effects
Overdose: Overdose is unlikely when used as directed. Excessive use may cause skin irritation.
Storage conditions
Storage: Store below 30°C, in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Gentian Violet Topical Solution