Ketoconazole Shampoo

About this medicine

KETOCONAZOLE (kee - toe - KON - na - zole) is an antifungal medicine. It is used to treat certain kinds of fungal or yeast infections. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

Trade names

Nizoral - Nizoral A-D The list of names may not include all products that are available on the market.
What is this medicine?

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Follow the directions on the prescription label.
Wash your hands before and after use.
Apply the shampoo to damp skin of the affected area of the skin or scalp.
Use enough shampoo to cover the affected area and a wide margin surrounding the affected area.
Work the shampoo into a lather and leave on for 5 minutes.
Rinse the treated area completely with water.
Do not get the shampoo in your eyes. If you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water.
Finish the full course prescribed by your doctor or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine 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 should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

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

An unusual or allergic reaction to ketoconazole, itraconazole, miconazole, sulfites, other foods, dyes or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breast-feeding

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other skin products without telling your doctor or health care professional.

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 side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

Allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
Pain, tingling, numbness

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

Dry skin
Hair loss, hair discoloration or abnormal texture
Skin irritation

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.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not begin to improve in 1 to 2 weeks. If your hair has been permanently waved the shampoo may remove the curl.