Topical ketoconazole is a topical antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections of the skin, nails, and mouth. It works by blocking the growth and spread of fungi.

Ketoconazole is currently available under the brand name Nizoral, Extina, Ketozole, and Xolegel. It comes in the form of a skin cream, skin gel, skin foam, and shampoo.

Ketoconazole can treat a number of fungal and yeast infections. Different infections can be treated with different forms of medication.

• Ketoconazole cream can be used to treat athlete's foot (tinea pedis), ringworm (tinea corporis), ringworm of the groin (tinea cruris; jock itch), seborrheic dermatitis (a skin and scalp condition that causes scaly red or dry patches), yeast infections of the skin, and tinea versicolor
• Ketoconazole foam or gel is typically used to treat seborrheic dermatitis.
• Ketoconazole 1% shampoo, which can be purchased over the counter, is used to treat dandruff.
• Ketoconazole 2% shampoo, which is prescription only, is used to treat tinea versicolor (also known as pityriasis versicolor).

Common side effects of ketoconazole can include changes in hair texture, blisters on the scalp, Itchy or dry skin, oily or dry hair or scalp, or mild irritation when you apply it. If these side effects do not go away, or if you experience blistering, swelling, peeling, hives, or skin cracks, stop taking ketoconazole and call your healthcare provider.

This is not a complete list of adverse effects, although these are among the most common. Seek medical attention if you experience any unusual symptoms or problems while using ketoconazole.

Be sure to inform the prescribing doctor or health care professional about any medical conditions you have been previously diagnosed with, as well as any medication/ supplements you are currently taking before starting treatment with ketoconazole. Be sure to mention if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in ketoconazole cream, gel, foam, or shampoo.

Consult with your doctor if you are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant before taking ketoconazole.

Ketoconazole cream: If you are using ketoconazole cream, you should apply it to the affected area once or twice a day, depending on your doctor’s recommendations. Be sure to cover the entire affected area and rub in the cream gently. Do not use an airtight covering over the medicine to avoid irritating your skin.

Ketoconazole foam: If you are using ketoconazole foam, wash your hands and then spray the foam into the cap of the medicine can (spraying directly onto the skin will cause the foam to melt right away). Dip your fingertip into the foam and apply gently to affected areas until it disappears. Wash your hands after use. This should be repeated as many times as your doctor advises.

Ketoconazole gel: If you are using ketoconazole gel, wash your hands and then apply it to the affected area of the skin and the surrounding area. Wait for at least 3 hours before washing the gel off, and repeat once a day for 2 weeks.

Ketoconazole shampoo: If you are using ketoconazole 1% shampoo, you should wet your hair and scalp, work the shampoo into a lather, and massage it over your entire scalp. Rinse your hair with warm water, repeat, and then rinse your hair a final time. You should use it every 3 or 4 days for up to 8 weeks, and then as needed to keep dandruff under control.

If you are using ketoconazole 2% shampoo, you should wet your hair and scalp, work the shampoo into a lather, and massage it over your entire scalp. Let it soak in for 5 minutes, then rinse your hair with warm water. This shampoo generally only needs to be used once.

Continue to apply your ketoconazole until the treatment is complete, even if your infection has cleared up. If you stop treatment before it is over, the infection can return.

Ketoconazole should be stored in a closed container at room temperature, away from extreme heat, extreme cold, moisture, and direct light, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Most forms of ketoconazole are available only with your doctor's prescription, but some forms are available without a prescription depending on the concentration of ketoconazole in the product. This means some products, such as 1% ketoconazole shampoo, are available for purchase at most retail health stores without a prescription from a doctor, but a doctor will be able to give you a stronger dose via prescription.

Looking for a prescription? Good news! Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a real, licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not ketoconazole is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for ketoconazole to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.