Ketoconazole Shampoo : Uses And Side Effects

Ketoconazole shampoo is medicated shampoo to treat fungal infections affecting the scalp. It can be used in condition like stubborn dandruff, psoriasis and more. Shampoos having ketoconazole can be had both over the counter (OTC) and also by prescription from your doctor.

Uses of ketoconazole – 

The Ketomac shampoo contains ketoconazole as the main ingredient and is mainly used as a dandruff treatment along with OTC brands like Nizoral found in supermarkets or online for purchase. Dandruff is formed in the dry scalp while some others are caused due to seborrheic dermatitis. An overgrowth of Malassezia, a yeast fungus is the main reason for the formation of Seborrheic dermatitis. This fungus can be seen naturally on your skin. Ketoconazole helps in treating dandruff by reducing the fungus and inflammation.

Psoriasis – 

Psoriasis can be treated easily with ketoconazole. Psoriasis is a skin inflammatory disease that causes skin flaking, skin plaques, and redness. Yeast like fungus usually infects the skin plaques. For psoriasis flares, you need to have a prescription for ketoconazole.

Tinea Infections – 

Ketoconazole shampoo helps in treating tinea capitis and tinea vesicolor. A superficial Tinea Capitis is ringworm like a fungus infection that affects the scalp. Tinea versicolor is an infection in the skin which is caused due to the overgrowth of a type of yeast that lives naturally on your skin.

Hair Loss –

The ketoconazole dandruff shampoo India is used mainly due to the antifungal properties to treat infections or conditions like seborrheic dermatitis. Anecdotal evidence has proved that ketoconazole helps in promoting hair growth or reducing hair loss.

Types of Ketoconazole shampoo – 

Under OTC or by the prescription of a doctor you can find different types of ketoconazole shampoos. One percent or less of ketoconazole is found in OTC ketoconazole shampoos. You can find the most common OTC brand Nizoral available in most supermarkets and online for purchase.

Risk and side effects – 

Before using ketoconazole is advisable that you should be aware of the negative side effects of the product. Skin irritation is a common side effect which can take the form of pimple-like bumps where is used. Some individual might have oiliness or dryness of the hair or scalp, abnormal hair texture or discoloration. This can be caused due to permed hair to lose the curl as well. Ketoconazole shampoo can also result in loss of hair. In case of any side effects it is advisable to consult your doctor.

Signs of allergic reaction – 

Rarely has there been any allergic reaction due to the use of ketoconazole shampoo. Immediate medication is a need in case of signs of an allergic reaction like severe itching, swelling of the face, tongue or throat, rash, dizziness or difficulty in breathing.

Other considerations – 

So far study on has not been conducted on the use of ketoconazole on pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding. In case you are pregnant or breastfeeding it is advisable to consult your doctor before using even the OTC version of this antifungal shampoo. Studies have not been conducted to know if the use of ketoconazole is good for children. Consult a pediatrician to use it on children below 12 years of age.