Ketoconazole

Antifungal (skin and scalp)
ALSO SOLD WITHOUT PRESCRIPTION

Ketoconazole is a antifungal (skin and scalp) found in 1 medicine sold in India, such as Nizral Shampoo. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

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.

Brands of Ketoconazole (1)

Nizral Shampoo

Common questions

What is Ketoconazole used for?

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

How does Ketoconazole work?

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 should I take Ketoconazole?

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

What are the side effects of Ketoconazole?

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

Does Ketoconazole interact with other medicines?

Tablets have many interactions; shampoo and cream do not.

Is Ketoconazole safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Shampoo and cream are acceptable in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Does Ketoconazole need a prescription in India?

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

Which brands contain Ketoconazole?

Nizral Shampoo.

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.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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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.