What is Ketoconazole?
Ketoconazole is an antifungal medication which is used for treating certain infections caused by fungus. It is not used for treating fungal infections of the fingernails or toenails. Ketoconazole is a prescription drug which is available as an oral tablet, topical cream, foam, shampoo and gel. This is used to treat fungal and yeast infections on the skin, hair, nails and in the blood.
Ketoconazole Uses
The medications are used for treating skin infections such as athlete’s foot, jock itch and ringworm. Ketoconazole is also used to treat skin conditions like tinea Versicolor, a fungal infection which causes lightening or darkening of skin, neck, chest, arms and legs. It’s an azoles antifungal which works by preventing the growth of fungus.
How does it work?
Ketoconazole is an antifungal drug. These drugs are often used for treating similar medical conditions. It helps in stopping the growth of yeast and fungi from causing any infections.
Ketoconazole Side Effects
Some of the common ketoconazole side effects are:
- Rash
- Itching
- Swelling
- Severe Dizziness
Serious Ketoconazole Side Effects:
- Dry Skin
- Acne
- Skin Rash
- Inflammation of hair follicle
- Skin Irritation
If you have any of these serious symptoms immediately contact your doctor for further assistance. In any case, due to Ketoconazole if you get any kind of reactions in your body try avoiding it.
A doctor advised you to take the medicines by seeing your problems and the benefits of this medicine are greater than the side effects. Majority of the people who use this medicine don’t show any side effects. Get medical help immediately if you get any serious Ketoconazole side effects.
Precautions
Before taking Ketoconazole tablets inform your doctor if you’re allergic to any of the antifungal drugs or allergy to any other medications. Some of the products can contain certain inactive ingredients which can cause allergic reactions to certain problems.Before using the medication consult with your doctor if you have any medical history:
- Liver problem
- Low testosterone levels
- Decreased adrenal gland function problems
- Achlorhydria
How to take Ketoconazole?
Ketoconazole Dosage
Generic: Ketoconazole (Oral tablet- 200 mg)
Dosage for fungal infections:
- Adult Dosage:: 200 mg once in a day up to 6 months
- Children dosage:: The doctor will decide the dosage according to the child’s height and weight.
Missed Dose
The skipped dose causes no problem. But with some medication, it won’t work if you don’t take the dosage on time. If you miss a dose some sudden chemical change may affect your body. In some cases, your doctor would advise you to take the prescribed medicine as soon as possible if you have missed the dose.
Overdose
Overdose of a drug can be accidental. If you have taken more than the prescribed Ketoconazole tablets there is a chance of getting a harmful effect on your body’s functions. Overdose of a medicine can lead to some medical emergency.
Ketoconazole Warnings
- Liver failure
- QT prolongation
- Hepatotoxicity
- Hormonal problems
Allergies
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Fever
- Chills
- Swelling of eyelids, face, mouth and neck
- Skin rash, hives and peeling of skin
Warnings for certain groups
Pregnant Women:
Ketoconazole is a C category pregnancy drug. It means negative effects on the fetus when a mother takes the drugs. Before using this medicine talk to your doctor if you’re pregnant or planning for pregnancy. This drug should be used when it shows any benefits.
Breastfeeding:
Ketoconazole passes into breast milk. It can cause some side effects to child’s who are breastfed. These can include diarrhea, vomiting and rash. Before taking Ketoconazole while breastfeeding consult your doctor.
Storage
Direct contact with heat, air and light may damage your medicines. The exposure of medicine may cause some harmful effects. The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children’s reach.Mainly the drug should be kept at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
Before taking Ketoconazole consult your Doctor. In case if you face any problems or get any side effects after taking Ketoconazole rush immediately to your nearby hospital or consult your doctor for better treatment. Carry your medications always in your bag while travelling to avoid any immediate emergencies. Follow your prescription and follow your Doctor advice whenever you take Ketoconazole.
Ketoconazole vs Selenium Sulfide
| Ketoconazole are antifungal medications which are used for treating certain infections caused by fungus. It is not used for treating fungal infections of the fingernails or toenails. | It’s a chemical agent used for treating dandruff. Its an antifungal agent which also relieves itching, flaking, scaling and dry skin. |
Some of the common ketoconazole side effects are:
|
Some of the common side effects of selenium sulfide are:
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| Ketoconazole can be taken with or without food. The dosage ranges from 200-400 mg daily. | Selenium sulfide 5-10ml of shampoo or lotion should be massaged in the wet scalp for 2 weeks. |
