Ketoconazole (topical)
Synonyms
Approved Treatment Indication:
Tinea Pedis, Oral Candidiasis, Chronic Mucocutaneous Candidiasis, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Coccidioidomycosis, Histoplasmosis, Leishmaniasis, Paracoccidioidomycosis, Cutaneous Candidiasis, Vulvovaginal Candidiasis, Acanthamoeba Keratitis, Blastomycosis, Tinea Versicolor
Summary
What conditions ketoconazole is used for
Ketoconazole is used to treat fungal infections, which are illnesses caused by fungi. It is effective against conditions like athlete's foot, which is a fungal infection of the skin on the feet, ringworm, which is a fungal infection of the skin or scalp, and certain yeast infections, which are caused by an overgrowth of yeast.
How ketoconazole works in the body
Ketoconazole works by interfering with the cell membranes of fungi, which are the structures that protect the fungal cells. It stops the fungi from producing ergosterol, which is a substance essential for their growth. Without ergosterol, the cell membranes become damaged, and the fungi die, helping to clear the infection.
Directions for Use
The usual starting dose of ketoconazole for adults is 200 mg taken once daily. If needed, the dose may be increased to 400 mg daily. Ketoconazole should be taken with food to improve absorption, which means how well the body takes in the medication. It is usually taken by mouth as a tablet.
The most commonly observed adverse effects of ketoconazole
Common side effects of ketoconazole include nausea, which is feeling sick to your stomach, headache, which is pain in the head, and abdominal pain, which is discomfort in the stomach area. These effects are usually mild and may go away on their own. If they persist, it's important to talk to your doctor.
Warnings and Precautions
Ketoconazole can cause serious liver damage, which is harm to the liver that can be life-threatening. Symptoms include nausea, fatigue, jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin or eyes, and dark urine. It is not recommended for people with liver disease or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Always follow your doctor's instructions.
Drug Status
Government Approvals
WHO Essential Medicine
Known Teratogen
Pharmaceutical Class
