(Generic Nizoral)
Ketoconazole shampoo 2% is a medicated shampoo that is FDA-approved to treat dandruff and a skin condition called tinea versicolor (or pityriasis versicolor), but it is also sometimes used off-label as part of a hair loss treatment plan by helping to reduce scalp inflammation. Since there may be an inflammatory component to certain kinds of hair loss, or some topical hair loss treatments may be mildly irritating, this anti-inflammatory shampoo may be useful. For this reason, some doctors prescribe this medication off-label as an add-on to other topical or oral hair loss treatments.
Ketoconazole is considered an azole antifungal medication. It works by reducing fungus and yeast on areas where it is applied. Since an overgrowth of fungus or yeast on the scalp can be irritating or lead to dandruff development, keeping levels in check with a medicated shampoo may be helpful. Even if someone does not have dandruff, Ketoconazole may still exert an anti-inflammatory effect on the scalp.
Use your Ketoconazole shampoo as directed by your doctor and as written on your prescription and prescription information. For dandruff, the most common instructions are to use it every 3-4 days for up to 8 weeks to clear the fungus. You may be instructed to keep using Ketoconazole shampoo occasionally after this treatment phase to prevent dandruff recurrence. However, if you are using Ketoconazole shampoo for scalp inflammation, or for other reasons, you may be instructed to use it differently. Use Ketoconazole shampoo by applying it in the shower after you wet your hair. Put enough product in your hand to cover your scalp and clean your hair, then work into a lather focusing on your scalp and leave on for 5 minutes before rinsing clean. Afterward, continue your usual shower and hair regimen including conditioner or any other hair care products you normally use. Ketoconazole can be irritating to the eyes, so avoid getting the shampoo into the eyes or mouth and rinse thoroughly with water if it does contact these areas.
Store your Ketoconazole in its closed original container at room temperature in a dry environment. Store Ketoconazole shampoo safely away from pets and children.
Most people will not experience side effects from using Ketoconazole shampoo. But, some side effects that may occur infrequently include: dryness of the hair and scalp, hair texture changes, hair discoloration, scalp pimples, itching, stinging, burning, and irritation of the application site. Please refer to the Safety Info tab on the product page to review the full safety information and potential side effects of this medication.
You may be able to notice positive effects from Ketoconazole shampoo in as little as 2-3 weeks of use. Your exact timeline may deviate according to what you are treating or trying to achieve with the use of your Ketoconazole shampoo.
You should not use Ketoconazole shampoo if you are allergic to it, or:
Tell your healthcare provider about:
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Ketoconazole shampoo:
Ketoconazole side effects may include:
Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or does not go away.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
The following links provide further information on the potential risks and benefits of this medication:
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