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1 May 2026Potentially dangerous, obsolete, or ineffective

Methylrosanilinium chloride = gentian violet = GV = crystal violet

Gentian violet guidance for limited candidiasis and wet skin lesions, with preparation steps and strong safety cautions.

This guide page is for structured reference only and does not replace a clinician, pharmacist, or emergency review. Dose choice, route choice, interactions, and safety decisions still need professional judgment.

Use restrictions

Carcinogenic effects have been demonstrated in animals. As a precaution, this product should not be used in humans if an alternative is available.

Therapeutic action

Antifungal, weak antiseptic, drying agent.

Indications

  • Oropharyngeal candidiasis.
  • Mammary candidiasis in nursing mothers.
  • Certain wet skin lesions such as impetigo and oozing dermatophyte lesions.

Forms and strengths

Powder to be dissolved.

Preparation

  • Dissolve 2.5 g of powder (one half-teaspoon) in 1 litre of clear water that has been boiled a few minutes and cooled to obtain a 0.25% solution.
  • Shake well and leave to settle. Pour carefully into another bottle to eliminate any possible sediment.
  • Before preparation, carefully wash both the bottle for dilution and the storage bottle with hot water and leave to dry.

Use

One application 2 times daily for a few days.

Contra-indications, adverse effects, precautions

  • Do not apply to wounds or ulcerations.
  • Do not apply to the face or genital mucous membranes.
  • May cause irritation, ulcerations, allergic reactions, and persistent staining of the skin.
  • The solution should not be swallowed.
  • Stop treatment in the event of allergic reactions or if new ulcerations develop.
  • In the event of product entering the eye, rinse with plenty of water.
  • Avoid contact with clothes because it causes permanent staining of fabrics.

Source

MSF Essential drugs practical guidelines (January 2026)

This page reproduces the structured reference information for this batch while leaving out the Storage and Remarks sections.

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