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What is ketoconazole skin cream?
KETOCONAZOLE (Nizoral®) is an antifungal type of antibiotic. It treats fungal infections such as ringworm of the body (tinea corporis), ringworm of the groin (tinea cruris or jock itch), sun fungus (tinea versicolor, pityriasis versicolor), and dandruff. Generic ketoconazole skin cream is available.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• an unusual or allergic reaction to ketoconazole, itraconazole, miconazole, sulfites, other foods, dyes or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Ketoconazole skin cream is for external use only. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash your hands before and after use (do not wash them after use if you are treating hand or nail infections). Apply a thin layer of cream to cover the affected skin and surrounding area. You can cover the area with a sterile gauze dressing (bandage); do not use an airtight bandage (such as a plastic-covered bandage). Finish the full course prescribed by your prescriber or health care professional even if you think your condition is better. Do not stop using except on your prescriber's advice.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.What drug(s) may interact with ketoconazole?
Other skin products may affect the action of ketoconazole. Do not use any other skin products on the affected area without consulting your prescriber or health care professional. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What should I watch for while taking ketoconazole?
Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not begin to improve in 1 to 2 weeks. Some fungal infections can take many weeks or months of treatment to cure. Use your medicine regularly for as long as your prescriber or health care professional tells you to.
Do not get the cream in your eyes; if you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water.
After bathing make sure your skin is quite dry. Fungal infections like moist conditions. Wear freshly washed cotton, not synthetic, clothing.
What side effects may I notice from using ketoconazole?
Serious side effects are rare from the use of skin products; they include:
• skin irritation, burning, or itching
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
