Ketoconazole
Description
Ketoconazole is an antifungal medicine used for dandruff and a flaky scalp. Ket
oconazole binds to the fungal cell membrane and inhibits its growth by altering membrane permeability. Ketoconazole should be used as advised by your doctor.
Uses
Ketoconazole is used for the treatment and prevention of dandruff.
Contraindications
When should one not use Ketoconazole
If you are allergic to Ketoconazole.
Side effects
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Dry hair
- Skin burning sensation
- Thinning of the hair
- Change of hair texture
Precautions and Warnings
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I use Ketoconazole during pregnancy?
A:
Ketoconazole should not be used during pregnancy unless considered necessary by your doctor. Do not use without consulting your doctor.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I use Ketoconazole while breastfeeding?
A:
The use of Ketoconazole while breastfeeding poses little or no risk to the breastfed infant.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have used Ketoconazole?
A:
Ketoconazole is a topical preparation and may not affect the driving ability or ability to handle machinery.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol if I am using Ketoconazole?
A:
There is no data regarding interactions between Ketoconazole and alcohol.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- Your skin condition doesn't improve, worsens or if you experience any side effects.
- Take precautions to prevent the medicine from getting into your eyes. If it does, gently wash your eyes with cold water.
- You are applying any steroid creams, gradually decrease the application over 2-3 weeks. Suddenly stopping it is not advised as it may worsen your skin problems.
Mode of Action
How Does It Work?
Ketoconazole is an antifungal medicine. Dandruff is caused by the fungi Malassezia residing on the scalp. It inhibits the growth of fungi and yeasts by altering the permeability of fungal cell membranes. Hence, it prevents the growth of fungus and yeast. It results in the death of a fungal cell....
Interactions
Interactions with other medicines
If you were on any steroid creams for a prolonged time, it is recommended to withdraw it over 2-3 weeks, while using Ketoconazole to prevent the worsening of an underlying condition.
Dosage
Overdose
As Ketoconazole is only for external use, cases of overdose are unlikely. However, upon accidental ingestion contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest hospital.
Missed a Dose
If you miss applying Ketoconazole, apply it the next time. Do not overapply just to compensate for the missed application.
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Ravindra Ghongade
B. Pharm
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Nikita Toshi
BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Ketoconazole good for hair?
- Dandruff makes your hair brittle and causes hair fall
- Ketoconazole will help you to get rid of dandruff
Q: Can both men and women use Ketoconazole?
A: Yes, both men and women can use Ketoconazole.
Q: What is the use of Ketoconazole?
A: Ketoconazole is used for treating and preventing dandruff.
References
View All
- Ketoconazole 2% w/w Shampoo - Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) - (emc) [Internet]. Medicines.org.uk. 2021 [cited 31 Oct 2025]
- CDSCO - Ketoconazole [Internet]. Cdscoonline.gov.in. 2021 [cited 31 Oct 2025]
- Ketoconazole (Topical Route) Description and Brand Names - Mayo Clinic [Internet]. Mayoclinic.org. 2021 [cited 31 Oct 2025]
- Ketoconazole: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD [Internet]. Webmd.com. 2021 [cited 31 Oct 2025]
- Ketomac Shampoo [Internet]. Ketomac.co.in. 2021 [ Cited 31 Oct.2025]
- Ketoconazole 2% w/w Shampoo - Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) - (emc) [Internet]. Medicines.org.uk. 2021 [cited 31 Oct 2025]
- Ketoconazole Topical: MedlinePlus Drug Information [Internet]. Medlineplus.gov. 2021 [cited 31 Oct 2025]
Recent articles
Disclaimer
The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.





