Indications
- Ketoconazole is a medication utilized for controlling dandruff.
- Its use aims to alleviate symptoms such as flaking, scaling, and itching commonly associated with dandruff.
- Ketoconazole belongs to the class of azole antifungals and operates by hindering the growth of fungus.
- Additionally, Ketoconazole 2% shampoo is employed in the treatment of a skin condition called pityriasis (tinea versicolor).
- Pityriasis, a fungal infection, induces lightening or darkening of the skin in areas such as the neck, chest, arms, or legs.
Dosage and administration
- Wet hair and scalp thoroughly with water before application.
- Apply a sufficient amount of shampoo to generate enough lather to cleanse both hair and scalp.
- Gently massage the shampoo over the entire scalp.
- Rinse hair with warm water after massaging.
- Follow instructions from your doctor; repeat the process if advised.
- After the final rinse, ensure hair is dried thoroughly.
- For over-the-counter strength shampoo (1%), apply, lather, and rinse thoroughly, then repeat.
- After the second rinse, dry hair completely.
- If treating skin other than the scalp, wet the affected area and apply shampoo, including the surrounding healthy skin.
- Allow the shampoo to lather and remain in place for 5 minutes before rinsing off with water.
- Dosage, frequency of application, and treatment duration vary based on the shampoo strength (2% or 1%) and the condition being treated.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions or the package directions carefully.
- Avoid getting shampoo into the eyes; rinse thoroughly with water if it happens.
- Do not use the shampoo if the scalp/skin is broken or swollen.
- Inform your doctor if your condition persists after 2-4 weeks of treatment or worsens at any time.
Side effects
- This medication may lead to abnormal hair texture, discoloration, irritation, or pimple-like bumps on the scalp.
- Other potential effects include oiliness or dryness of the hair and scalp.
- If any of these effects persist or worsen, promptly inform your doctor or pharmacist.
- Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because they have deemed that the benefits outweigh the risks of side effects.
- Many individuals using this medication do not experience serious side effects.
- Notify your doctor immediately if you encounter any serious side effects, such as hair loss.
- Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to this drug can occur. Seek medical assistance promptly if you observe symptoms like rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
- This list doesn’t cover all possible side effects. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you notice any other effects not mentioned here.
Precautions
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have allergies to ketoconazole, other azole antifungals like clotrimazole, econazole, or miconazole, or if you have any other allergies.
- This product might contain inactive ingredients that could trigger allergic reactions or other issues. Consult your pharmacist for further information.
- Before using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist.
- Use this medication during pregnancy only if clearly necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is uncertain whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.