Gentian violet medical use has been banned in some countries and curtailed in others. Read on to see some examples. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following topical medications for thrush, and does not mention gentian violet:

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Many medicines have not been studied specifically in older people. Therefore, it may not be known whether they work exactly the same way they do in younger adults. Although there is no specific information comparing use of this medicine in the elderly with use in other age groups, this medicine is not expected to cause different side effects or problems in older people than it does in younger adults. Drug Interactions Whaley SG, et al. (2017). Azole antifungal resistance in Candida albicansand emerging non- albicans Candidaspecies. Gentian violet can irritate mucous membranes (e.g. the tissues lining the eyes, gastrointestinal tract, and genital tract) if used at high concentrations. For example, if taken orally it can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.Gentian violet has been used as a topical option to treat thrush for centuries, but the studies are still inconclusive. There are some who say it can potentially “tattoo” skin and may even be toxic in some cases, and instead encourage the use of drug alternatives like clotrimazole, fluconazole, miconazole, or nystatin. It’s also important to note that gentian violet is on the Proposition 65 list, and it’s been said that exposure may increase risk of cancer.

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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. As a thrush treatment for babies, gentian violet can be used on the tongue and affected areas of the mouth. Gentian Violet causes significant staining, so you will need to use caution with any surfaces or clothing. In 2013, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared gentian violet genotoxic (potentially damaging to DNA) and carcinogenic. It declined to issue an ADI (advisable daily intake) because of these safety issues. Gentian violet is also an option to treat thrush in people where Candida albicans, the fungus that causes thrush, develops resistance to antifungal medications.Gentian violet may be the most useful for those who are experiencing outbreaks of thrush that are resistant to antifungal medications, under the direction of a health care provider. Australia. Australia declared gentian violet (called crystal violet) a potential risk to public health in 1994. It canceled clearance certificates for products containing it for both use on human skin and veterinary use.