Nizral Shampoo

Shampoo · Kenvue
USUALLY SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Nizral Shampoo is a shampoo made by Kenvue that contains Ketoconazole 2%. Ketoconazole is a antifungal (skin and scalp): as a shampoo or cream, treats dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis and fungal skin infections.

Ingredient (salt)Amount
Ketoconazole2%

What it is used for

As a shampoo or cream, treats dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis and fungal skin infections.

How it works

An azole antifungal used as shampoo and cream for dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis, pityriasis and fungal rashes. Tablets are rarely used now due to liver risk.

How to take it

Shampoo: leave on for 3 to 5 minutes, twice weekly for 2 to 4 weeks, then weekly. Cream once or twice a day.

Common side effects

  • Scalp irritation
  • Dry or oily hair

Get medical help straight away if

  • Severe rash
  • Yellow skin (with tablets)

Be careful

For external use; tablets are rarely used now because of liver risk.

Other medicines and interactions

Tablets have many interactions; shampoo and cream do not.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Shampoo and cream are acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Common questions

What is Nizral Shampoo?

Nizral Shampoo is a shampoo by Kenvue containing Ketoconazole 2%.

What is Nizral Shampoo used for?

As a shampoo or cream, treats dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis and fungal skin infections.

How should I take Nizral Shampoo?

Shampoo: leave on for 3 to 5 minutes, twice weekly for 2 to 4 weeks, then weekly. Cream once or twice a day. Always follow the dose your doctor or the pack gives.

What are the side effects of Nizral Shampoo?

Common side effects include: Scalp irritation, dry or oily hair. Get medical help straight away for: Severe rash, yellow skin (with tablets).

Does Nizral Shampoo need a prescription?

It is usually sold without a prescription in India, but ask a pharmacist if you take other medicines or have a long-term illness.

Can I take Nizral Shampoo in pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Shampoo and cream are acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What are the substitutes for Nizral Shampoo?

We have no other brand with exactly the same composition and strength in our list yet. Ask your pharmacist for an equivalent.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Composition checked against pack details from large Indian online pharmacies. Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.