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Gentian violet 1% solution
Gentian violet is a triphenylmethane dye that disrupts microbial cell membranes and inhibits bacterial and fungal growth through intercalation into nucleic acids and oxidative stress generation.
Gentian violet is a triphenylmethane dye that disrupts microbial cell membranes and inhibits bacterial and fungal growth through intercalation into nucleic acids and oxidative stress generation. Used for Topical treatment of bacterial and fungal skin infections, Oral candidiasis (thrush), Wound antisepsis and disinfection.
At a glance
| Generic name | Gentian violet 1% solution |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | Kamuzu University of Health Sciences |
| Drug class | Antimicrobial dye |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Infectious Disease / Dermatology |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
Gentian violet (crystal violet) exerts antimicrobial effects by binding to and damaging microbial cell membranes, disrupting their integrity and function. It also intercalates into DNA and RNA, interfering with nucleic acid synthesis, and generates reactive oxygen species that cause oxidative damage to pathogens. These multiple mechanisms make it effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria, fungi, and some protozoa.
Approved indications
- Topical treatment of bacterial and fungal skin infections
- Oral candidiasis (thrush)
- Wound antisepsis and disinfection
Common side effects
- Skin staining/discoloration
- Local irritation or burning
- Allergic contact dermatitis
Key clinical trials
- Gentian Violet Vs. Nystatin Oral Suspension for Treatment of Oropharyngeal Candidiasis (PHASE3)
- A Comparison of Gentian Violet (GV) Mouth Washes, Nystatin, and Ketoconazole Tabs in Treating Oropharyngeal Candidiasis (PHASE3)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- Gentian violet 1% solution CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Gentian violet 1% solution updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- Kamuzu University of Health Sciences portfolio CI