Gentian violet belongs to the group of medicines called antifungals. Topical gentian violet is used to treat some types of fungus infections inside the mouth (thrush) and of the skin.

Gentian violet is available without a prescription.

This product is available in the following dosage forms:

• Solution

Proper Use

• Using a cotton swab, apply enough gentian violet to cover only the affected area.
• If you are applying this medicine to affected areas in the mouth, avoid swallowing any of the medicine.
• If you are using this medicine in a child's mouth, make sure you understand exactly how to apply it so that it is not swallowed. If you have any questions about this, check with your health care professional.
• Do not apply an occlusive dressing (airtight covering, such as kitchen plastic wrap) over this medicine. It may cause irritation of the skin.
• To help clear up your infection completely, keep using this medicine for the full time of treatment, even if your condition has improved. Do not miss any doses.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.