Preferred Oral Treatment Tinea

[Obake]

My son is a competitive wrestler and picked up tinea corporis and tinea capitis about five weeks ago.  Lamisil reduced, but couldn't completely clear the tinea corporis, so his pediatrician prescribed econzole nitrate cream which has pretty much killed it.  However, the tinea capitis which started at his scalp line has migrated into his hair.  Our pediatrician didn't feel comfortable prescribing oral medication, so we went to a dermatologist who gave him Griseofulvin.  I had done some research, so I asked why not the newer alternatives that work faster.  He seemed to feel Griseofulvin was safer, but I'm reading it's more toxic.  

Just one example:

There is another kind of oral medication known as Griseofulvin (Grisactin), which is prescribed less often since the arrival of the newer medicines. Though this medication is very effective in treating ringworm, they take a longer time to clear up the infection. The most common side effect caused by this, is headache. It can also cause discomfort in one?s digestive tract, rashes as well as leads to a drop in the white blood cell count. Griseofulvin is only used in cases where the patients are allergic or unresponsive to other kinds of oral medications.

My son is 11 years-old and weights 70 lbs.  Do you think Griseofulvin is safe.  Did the doctor make the right call?

Thanks!

[jagesh50]

My treatment extends from 4 to 6weeks and recurrences are uncommon with ketoconazole shampoo is use for some more time as a preventive.Do consult your doc.

[Obake]

Thank you for your reply.  In re-reading my post I should have asked "Do you think Griseofulvin is the best choice considering the recent approval of Lamisil Oral Granules (Terbinafine Hydrochloride)?"

In your experience, how long did the Griseofulvin take to eradicate the tinea.  How frequently did the infection come back after the initial treatment?

Thanks!

[jagesh50]

Griseofulvin is absolutely safe in my experience- In the tropics,where it is used extensively.