Ketoconazole Solution / Shampoo

• Type: Antifungal medication (topical)

• Main Use: Treats fungal infections of the scalp and skin, especially those causing dandruff, flaking, and itching.

How It Works

• Ketoconazole belongs to the azole class of antifungals.

• It blocks the production of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes.

• This weakens the fungal cell wall, causing the fungus to die and clearing the infection.

Common Uses

• Dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp)

• Pityriasis versicolor (fungal skin infection causing light or dark patches)

• Seborrheic dermatitis of the face, chest, or back

• Sometimes used as part of treatment for fungal folliculitis (fungal acne-like condition)

Advantages

• Targets the root cause of dandruff (Malassezia fungus)

• Reduces itching, redness, flaking, and scaling

• Can be used regularly for prevention of recurrence

• Gentle enough for most hair and scalp types when used as directed

How It Is Used

• Shampoo form: Applied to wet hair/scalp, left on for a few minutes, then rinsed.

• Solution form: Applied directly to affected area of skin, usually once or twice daily.

• Typically used twice weekly for 2–4 weeks, then less often for maintenance if needed.

Possible Side Effects

• Mild burning, stinging, or dryness of the skin/scalp

• Hair texture changes (rare)

• Unusual hair loss (rare)

• Allergic reaction (very uncommon)

Precautions

• Avoid contact with eyes; rinse thoroughly if contact occurs.

• Use for the full recommended duration, even if symptoms improve early.

• For persistent dandruff or skin infection, consult a doctor to rule out other causes.

• Not usually absorbed into the bloodstream in significant amounts, so generally safe for most people.