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Ketoconazole Shampoo

Ketoconazole shampoo is an antifungal medication. It treats fungal or yeast infections in your skin. You can use this medicated shampoo as you would use a regular shampoo by massaging it into your skin. Follow the label for directions on how long you should let the product set before rinsing it off. The brand name of this medication is Nizoral®.

What is this medication?

KETOCONAZOLE (kee toe KON na zole) treats fungal or yeast infections of the skin. It belongs to a group of medications called antifungals. It will not treat infections caused by bacteria or viruses.

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

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Nizoral, Nizoral A-D

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 hands before and after use. Do not get this medication in your eyes. If you do, rinse them out with plenty of cool tap water. Use this medication as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Do not use it more often than directed. Use the medication for the full course as directed by your care team, even if you think you are better. Do not stop using it unless your care team tells you to stop it early.

Wet the skin and apply the medication to the areas to be cleansed. Massage gently into the skin working it into a full lather. Leave in place for 5 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with plain water. Pat the skin dry. If you are using this product on your scalp, you do not need to use regular shampoo after every application.

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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.

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.

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.

If your hair has been permanently waved, this medication may remove the curls from your hair.

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):

  • Change in hair color or texture
  • Hair loss
  • 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). Protect from light. 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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