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If you’re dealing with a severe case of dandruff, you might have heard of ketoconazole. But just what is ketoconazole shampoo used for? If you’re asking this question, you’re in the right place. Read on to learn more.
What Is Ketoconazole Shampoo Used For?
Ketoconazole shampoo is used for severe dandruff. It can help with flaking, as well as itching and scaling. The medicine ketoconazole is an antifungal that prevents fungus from growing, so the shampoo can also help people who have pityriasis.
This is a fungal infection that can cause skin on the neck, arms, chest, or legs to become lighter or darker. If you want to know all about ketoconazole shampoo and how it is used, you may want to know the following:
- What is ketoconazole shampoo?
- How do you use it?
- Who can use it?
- Are there any concerns?
We wanted to know the answers to these questions, so we set out to learn. Continue reading to learn all about ketoconazole shampoo.
Why Is Ketoconazole Shampoo Prescribed?
Ketoconazole shampoo contains the synthetic antifungal agent ketoconazole. It is a reddish-orange color, and it is prescribed to people for fungal infections on the scalp. Typically, the shampoo is a 2% solution, and it can help with different conditions, including the following:
- Dandruff
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Tinea versicolor (pityriasis)
- Psoriasis
It is available in both prescription and over-the-counter strengths, and it is important to discuss your plan with your doctor. The idea is to treat the issue and solve the problem.
Types of Ketoconazole Shampoo
Although the 2% ketoconazole shampoo is the most common one that people use, there are actually several types. Some are available OTC, while others require a prescription.
OTC ketoconazole shampoos have less than 1% of ketoconazole. They are available in stores and online. Prescriptions are going to be 2% ketoconazole, and they must be prescribed by your doctor. Several common brands include:
- Nizoral: OTC
- Ketozal: Prescription
- Ketozolin: Prescription
- Ket Med: Prescription
How to Use Ketoconazole Shampoo
You should speak to your doctor before you use this shampoo, especially if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine. You also need to consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as whatever you put in your body goes into the baby’s body as well.
If you are taking any other medication, you should talk to your doctor to make sure that the ketoconazole won’t react with what you are taking. Once you have the shampoo, you should read the manufacturer’s information.
This lets you know everything you need to know about the shampoo and any potential side effects. If you are taking it for dandruff, you should use it twice a week for two to four weeks.
Be sure to wet your hair before you apply the shampoo, and use the same amount you would use with normal shampoo. You massage it into your scalp, and let it sit for three to five minutes. Finally, rinse your hair.
You can use it as a preventative for dandruff once every one or two weeks. On the other hand, people with pityriasis versicolor will want to apply this shampoo to the affected skin patches once a day for five days.
You should leave it on the skin for three to five minutes, and then you can wash it off. It can prevent you from developing a rash when you are going to be out in the sun. Most people use it for three days.
Be careful not to get the shampoo in your eyes, and if you do, you can rinse it out. If your symptoms aren’t improving with use of the shampoo, you should consult with your doctor.
Who Should Use Ketoconazole Shampoo?
As long as you aren’t allergic to the active ingredient in this shampoo, you can use it. It is safe to use for the problems it can treat, but there are cases where it leads to contact dermatitis.
Many people who have dandruff or one of the other conditions it treats will often use this shampoo to cure it.
Concerns With Using Ketoconazole Shampoo
As with any medicated product, there are concerns to consider. You need to be aware of any allergies, potential side effects, and how it might interact with other medications.
When to Be Cautious
You need to be cautious in several situations. First, if you have any known allergies to the active ingredient, ketoconazole, you should avoid this shampoo.
It should only be used for its intended purpose, and some people do develop contact dermatitis. If you have an allergic reaction, you should stop using the shampoo, and in some cases, you will want to seek medical care.
Another time to be cautious is if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is safe to use the shampoo, and it doesn’t pose a risk to your baby.
However, you should make sure that you don’t apply it directly to your breasts or nipples to avoid the baby ingesting it. The FDA says that pregnant women should not use ketoconazole during pregnancy unless it is necessary.
There isn’t enough evidence to show the impact on the developing baby before birth. You should not use this shampoo on children unless recommended by your doctor.
Are There Side Effects?
There is a list of side effects from the FDA, including the following:
- Itching
- Burning
- Hives
- Dry skin
- Burning sensation
- Odd color and feel to the hair
- Alopecia
- Swelling
- Rash
- Irritated skin
- Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction)
Interaction With Other Medications
It is important to talk to your doctor about any medications that you are taking. Some may interact with ketoconazole. If you find that you have a reaction, you need to call your doctor and address it. You may need to find an alternative shampoo for your issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes a Fungus in Your Hair?
Fungus develops in your hair when fungi are transmitted onto your scalp. You can find fungi in most environments, so be aware that it is often contagious and can spread to your skin.
Can You Use Ketoconazole Shampoo Every Day?
You should use the shampoo as prescribed by your doctor. Normally, people use it three to four days a week for up to eight weeks. They use it to keep dandruff under control.
So, What Is Ketoconazole Shampoo Used For?
Ketoconazole shampoo is a prescription shampoo that helps people who have dandruff or a few other conditions. It is an antifungal agent, and it can help with this condition.