A Shampoo That Treats Dandruff and Fungal Infections
Ketoconazoleshampoo is a topical solution that contains the antifungal agent ketoconazole.
This article explains how ketoconazole shampoo works, its uses, types, benefits, and risks.
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How Ketoconazole Shampoo Works
Ketoconazole is in a class of antifungals calledimidazoles.
Rattankun Thongbun / Getty Images
What Is Ketoconazole Shampoo Used For?
Ketoconazole shampoo is primarily used to control dandruff, a skin condition that results in ared, flaky scalp.
Dandruff is considered the mildest form of seborrheic dermatitis.
More severe seborrheic dermatitis results in inflammation and skin discoloration.
Untreated dandruff can sometimes result in secondary bacterial or fungal infections, so keeping it under control is important.
In addition to treating dandruff, people also use ketoconazole shampoo for a few conditions.
It causes skin cells to pile up, resulting in red patches, flaking, and dryness.
Tinea Versicolor
Tinea versicolor is a fungal infection resulting from an overgrowth of yeast on the skin.
Ketoconazole shampoo is atopical antifungalused when it appears on the scalp.
When it occurs on the scalp, ketoconazole shampoo can treat it.
Little evidence supports this use, but some smaller studies have found that ketoconazole may help regrow hair.
Types of Ketoconazole Shampoo
Ketoconazole shampoo is available OTC at drugstores, pharmacies, and online.
In addition, more potent formulas are available by prescription.
OTC Ketoconazole Shampoo
OTC ketoconazole shampoos usually contain 1% ketoconazole.
The most common brand is Nizoral.
OTC shampoo is usually applied every three or four days for up to eight weeks, then as needed.
Prescription Ketoconazole Shampoo
Shampoos with 2% ketoconazole usually require a prescription from a healthcare provider.
But you should follow the instructions of a healthcare provider exactly.
These medicated shampoos are intended only for the skin.
What Are the Benefits of Ketoconazole Shampoo?
Ketoconazole shampoo benefits include the following:
Shampoos make it easier to apply medication to your scalp.
In that way, ketoconazole shampoo is practical and user-friendly.
In addition, it is an effective method to control dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp.
What Are the Side Effects of Ketoconazole Shampoo?
Ketoconazole shampoo comes with some risks and side effects.
Since this is a medicated shampoo, discussing its use with a healthcare provider first is essential.
Tell them about your symptoms, other medications you use, and health conditions that you have.
Side effects may include:
Less commonly, severe reactions may occur.
These symptoms could indicate a severe allergic reaction calledanaphylaxis.
Summary
Ketoconazole shampoo is a medicated antifungal shampoo primarily used to treat dandruff.
It is also used to treat some fungal infections of the scalp, particularly tinea versicolor, and ringworm.
Some people also use it for scalp psoriasis.
Ketoconazole comes in 1% OTC strength and 2% prescription strength.
Consult a healthcare provider before trying ketoconazole shampoo.
2022;19(3):11-5. doi:10.23950/jcmk/12117
NHS.Ketoconazole.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Seborrheic dermatitis: Overview.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.Scalp psoriasis: Causes.
American Academy of Dermatology.Tinea versicolor.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Treatment for ringworm.
