Nizoral Topical Side Effects, Uses, Dosage drug information

Generic Name: ketoconazole topical
Brands: Nizoral Topical

What is the most important information I should know about Nizoral Topical?

· Use this medication for the full amount of time prescribed by your doctor even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely healed.

· Do not use bandages or dressings that do not allow air to circulate to the affected area (occlusive dressings) unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

· Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

What is Nizoral Topical?

· Nizoral Topical is an antifungal medication. Nizoral Topical prevents fungus from growing on your skin.

· Nizoral Topical is used to treat fungal infections of the skin such as athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm, and excessive oiliness (seborrhea).

· Nizoral Topical is available as a cream and as a shampoo. The shampoo is used for the treatment of dandruff.

· Nizoral Topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Who should not use Nizoral Topical?

· Do not use Nizoral Topical if you have had an allergic reaction to it in the past.

· Nizoral Topical (shampoo and cream) is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Nizoral Topical will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

· It is not known whether ketoconazole passes into breast milk. Do not use Nizoral Topical without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I apply Nizoral Topical?

· Use ketoconazole exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Wash your hands before and after using this medication.

· Clean and dry the affected area. Apply enough of the cream to cover the affected area once or twice daily as directed for 2 to 4 weeks.

· The shampoo is usually applied twice a week, with 3 days between shampoos. Apply enough shampoo to create a lather and massage the scalp for 1 minute. Rinse thoroughly and repeat, leaving the lather on for an additional 3 minutes. Then rinse it off completely.

· Use this medication for the full amount of time prescribed by your doctor or recommended in the package even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely healed.

· If the infection does not clear up in a few weeks, or if it appears to get worse, see your doctor.

· Do not use bandages or dressings that do not allow air circulation over the affected area (occlusive dressings) unless otherwise directed by your doctor. A light cotton-gauze dressing may be used to protect clothing.

· Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

· Store Nizoral Topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the dose you missed and apply only the regular amount of Nizoral Topical. Do not use a double dose unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?

· An overdose of Nizoral Topical is unlikely to occur. If you do suspect that a much larger than normal dose has been used or that Nizoral Topical has been ingested, contact an emergency room or a poison control center.

What should I avoid while using Nizoral Topical?

· Avoid tight-fitting, synthetic clothing that doesn't allow air circulation. If the affected area is the feet, be sure to wear clean, cotton socks and sandals or shoes that allow for air circulation.

What are the possible side effects of Nizoral Topical?

· Serious side effects of Nizoral Topical use are not expected. Stop using Nizoral Topical and see your doctor if you experience unusual or severe itching, burning, or stinging of the skin. The shampoo may also cause oiliness or dryness of the hair or scalp and mild hair loss.

· Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Nizoral Topical?

· Avoid the use of other topicals at the same time unless your doctor approves. Other skin medications may affect the absorption or effectiveness of Nizoral Topical.

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has additional information about ketoconazole written for health professionals that you may read.

Nizoral Topical