Ketoconazole Cream

Ketoconazole treats fungal or yeast infections. It can also treat seborrheic dermatitis. This condition causes itchy, dry and flaky skin. This antifungal medication comes as a cream. You can rub this cream on your affected skin. Brand names of this medication are Kuric® and Nizoral®.

What is this medication?

KETOCONAZOLE (kee toe KON na zole) treats fungal or yeast infections of the skin. It may also be used to treat seborrheic dermatitis, a condition that causes dry, flaky, and itchy skin. It belongs to a group of medications called antifungals. It will not treat infections caused by bacteria or viruses.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Kuric, Nizoral

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What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Large areas of burned or damaged skin
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to ketoconazole, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Wash your hands before and after use. If you are treating your hands, only wash your hands before use. Do not use on healthy skin or over large areas of skin. Do not get this medication in your eyes. If you do, rinse it out with plenty of cool tap water. Use it as directed on the label at the same time every day. Do not use it more often than directed or for a longer time period than prescribed by your care team. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.

Apply a thin film to the affected area and rub gently. Do not bandage or wrap the skin being treated unless directed to do so by your care team.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

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What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other skin products without telling your care team.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

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What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

After bathing, make sure your skin is very dry. Fungal infections like moist conditions. Do not walk around barefoot.

To help prevent reinfection, wear freshly washed cotton, not synthetic, clothing. Tell your care team if you develop sores or blisters that do not heal properly. If your skin infection returns after you stop using this medication, contact your care team.

If you are using this medication for jock itch, do not wear underwear that is tight-fitting or made from synthetic fibers such as rayon or nylon. Instead, wear loose-fitting, cotton underwear. Dry the area completely after bathing.

If you are using this medication to treat athlete's foot, carefully dry the feet, especially between the toes after bathing. Do not wear socks made from wool or synthetic materials such as rayon or nylon. Wear clean cotton socks and change them at least once a day. Wear sandals or shoes that are well-ventilated. An absorbent powder, such as talcum powder, may be used to keep the skin dry. Apply the powder to the affected skin in between applications of this medication.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Irritation at application site

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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