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Overview: Gentian violet is an antiseptic that is applied to the skin to help prevent infections in minor cuts, scrapes, or burns. It may also be used for minor fungal skin infections. It works by killing the microbes that can cause these infections. Common side effects may include skin redness, irritation, and mild pain. It may also turn the skin purple for a short time and can stain clothing. Gentian violet should not be applied to deep or open wounds. Speak with a health care provider if you are unsure whether it is safe to apply gentian violet to your skin.

Uses

What is gentian violet used for?

Gentian violet is commonly used to help prevent infections in minor cuts, scrapes, or burns. It may also be used to treat certain minor fungal skin infections.

Gentian violet may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.

How does gentian violet work (mechanism of action)?

Gentian violet is an antiseptic, which means that it kills microbes that can cause infections on your skin.

How is gentian violet supplied (dosage forms)?

Example dosage forms and strengths

  • 1%, 2% topical liquid

How should I store gentian violet?

Storage requirements for gentian violet may not be provided with the product packaging. Most medicines should be kept in a cool, dry location that is out of the reach of children and pets and not in direct sunlight.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of gentian violet?

The most common side effects of gentian violet are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

  • Skin redness, irritation, or mild pain 
  • Purple skin color (temporary)

There may be other side effects of gentian violet that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of gentian violet?

While less common, the most serious side effects of gentian violet are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Gentian violet may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using gentian violet and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching or skin rash
  • Bumps on the skin called hives, which can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use gentian violet?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use gentian violet.

  • Gentian violet
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific gentian violet products they stock.

What should I know about gentian violet before using it?

Follow the instructions that come with your gentian violet product.

Keep gentian violet out of the reach of children.

Gentian violet is a liquid that is applied to the skin. Wash the affected skin with soap and water and dry well before applying gentian violet. Do not bandage, wrap, or otherwise cover the area after you have applied gentian violet unless your health care provider tells you to do so. Do not use gentian violet over large areas of your body.

Keep gentian violet away from your mouth and eyes. If you get gentian violet in your eyes, wash them right away with water.

Gentian violet can be applied to minor cuts, scrapes, or burns, but it should not be applied to deep, open, or serious wounds or burns. If you are unsure whether you should apply gentian violet to a specific injury, talk to a health care provider.

Stop using gentian violet once your symptoms get better. Do not use it for more than one week unless your health care provider tells you to. Stop using gentian violet and tell your health care provider if your symptoms (such as irritation, pain, redness, or swelling) do not get better or get worse after using gentian violet. Also tell your health care provider if you get a rash or infection while using gentian violet.

Gentian violet is a dye that can stain your clothing and skin. Use caution when applying.

What should I tell my health care provider before using gentian violet?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if gentian violet is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Deep Wounds, Serious Burns, or Bites. Ask your health care provider before using gentian violet on a deep or puncture wound, an open wound, a serious burn, or an animal bite. It may not be safe to use gentian violet on these types of wounds, or they may need other treatment.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how gentian violet could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if gentian violet passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Interactions

Does gentian violet interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between gentian violet and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect gentian violet.

Does gentian violet interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?

There are no known interactions between gentian violet and other medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Does interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much gentian violet?

If you or someone else has used too much gentian violet, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

What should I do if I miss a dose of gentian violet?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only use the next dose. Do not use gentian violet more often than directed in the product label. Do not use double or extra doses.