Protocol on Gentian Violet Use for a Baby
Gentian violet is used to treat fungus in babies, children and adults. While gentian violet is available without a prescription, it may take some searching to find, especially in the 2 percent solution recommended for use. The protocol for gentian violet use for a baby is simple, quick and easy to follow.
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Indications
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Gentian violet is commonly used to relieve thrush caused by candida albicans, a form of fungus that may overgrow in a baby's mouth, digestive tract or genitals. A baby who is breastfeeding may share this fungus with the mother, and she will also require treatment. Itching and pain are common symptoms of thrush, and a health care professional can determine whether gentian violet application to the inside of the mouth or genitals may or may not be helpful.
Solution
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Protocol for gentian violet use for a baby involves a 1 percent solution. Pharmacies carry gentian violet without a prescription but often provide a 2 percent solution. A pharmacist can reduce the solution to 1 percent, or it can be made at home by combining one part water with one part 2 percent gentian violet solution.
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Use
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Apply petroleum jelly to lips to prevent staining. Typical use for gentian violet includes swabbing the affected areas with a 1 percent solution three times daily for three days. Infants may be treated with only one application per day rather than three, to avoid ulcers caused by sensitivity to the gentian violet. If the gentian violet is used in the mouth, askdrsears.com recommends that petroleum jelly be applied on and around the lips to prevent staining. Discontinue use, and consult a health care professional if pain continues or worsens.
Stains
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Gentian violet gets its name from the dark violet color of the solution. It can stain clothing and skin. To prevent staining, use it sparingly, and if it gets on fabric, wash it out immediately with rubbing alcohol. Or wear clothing that you don't mind getting stained.
Warnings
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Gentian violet can irritate sensitive mucous membranes, especially when used too often or in too high a concentration. According to askdrsears.com, a study in Australia has also linked gentian violet to cancer. Many health care professionals feel it is safe, but Dr. Sears recommends that it be used in small amounts and that alternatives are considered.
Alternatives
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Alternatives to gentian violet are plentiful. Gentian violet is one of many treatments for thrush in a baby. To be effective, any treatment will be best used on both mom and baby when breastfeeding. Many mothers and babies find that acidophilus, nystatin, white vinegar, clotrimazole and diflucan can relieve thrush. According to Mothering magazine, home and herbal remedies have also been found to be effective.
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References
- Photo Credit baby image by Yvonne Bogdanski from Fotolia.com baby1 image by Francois du Plessis from Fotolia.com
