Nizoral Shampoo (Ketoconazole 20 mg/g)

1.Product Summary (Introduction)

Nizoral Shampoo is a medicated antifungal shampoo used to treat and prevent dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis. It contains ketoconazole 2% (20 mg/g) and comes in a 100 ml bottle. Suitable for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older, it is available over the counter (OTC).

2. What is Nizoral Shampoo?

Nizoral is a topical antifungal shampoo.

• Generic name: Ketoconazole
• Brand name: Nizoral
• Used for: Dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis (scalp irritation, flaking)
• Type: Shampoo (Topical use only)
• Availability: Over-the-counter (no prescription needed)

3. Uses / Indications

Nizoral is commonly used to treat:

• Dandruff (Pityriasis capitis)
• Seborrheic dermatitis (scaly, red, itchy skin on scalp, face, ears, or chest)
• Yeast-related scalp infections caused by Malassezia

How It Works

• Drug class: Antifungal (imidazole group)
• Mechanism:
  Ketoconazole blocks an enzyme (lanosterol 14α-demethylase) that fungi need to make their protective cell membrane. Without this membrane, the fungal cells weaken and die, reducing symptoms like flaking, itching, and redness.

5. Ingredients / Composition

Ingredient: Ketoconazole
Strength: 20 mg/g (2%)
Purpose: Antifungal

Ingredient: Sodium lauryl ether sulfate
Strength: —
Purpose: Surfactant / cleanser

Ingredient: Cocamide DEA
Strength: —
Purpose: Foaming agent

Ingredient: Erythrosine
Strength: —
Purpose: Colorant

Ingredient: Parfum
Strength: —
Purpose: Fragrance

Ingredient: Purified water, etc.
Strength: —
Purpose: Base / excipients

6. Dosage Instructions

For External Use Only (Do not swallow)

Standard Dosage:

• Treatment Phase:
  

Use twice weekly for 2 to 4 weeks

• Prevention / Maintenance:
  
  Use once every 1 to 2 weeks

Maximum Usage:

• Do not use more than once daily
• Maximum 2 times per week during treatment phase

Use Example:

• Monday and Thursday (every 3–4 days) during treatment
• Every Sunday or every other Sunday for maintenance

What If You Miss a Dose?

• Use as soon as you remember
• Skip if it's close to your next scheduled dose
• Do not double up
• Example: If you forget Monday’s dose, just use it on Thursday

What If You Overdose?

• Symptoms: Scalp redness, burning, dryness, stinging
• Action: Rinse scalp thoroughly and stop using
• If swallowed: Seek emergency medical help or call poison control

Food & Beverage Interactions

• No food or drink interactions — external use only
• Can be used regardless of meals
• Do not ingest

7. Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Scalp itching or burning
• Dry scalp or hair
• Redness or irritation
• Changes in hair texture (e.g., dryness)

Serious side effects (rare):

• Allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
  
  → Stop use and seek medical help immediately

8. Warnings & Precautions

Condition: Pregnancy
Advice: Consult your doctor before use

Condition: Breastfeeding
Advice: Generally safe on scalp with medical advice

Condition: Liver disease
Advice: Use with caution

Condition: Alcohol
Advice: Avoid swallowing; topical use only

Condition: Kidney disease
Advice: No known risk, but consult a doctor

Other Precautions:

• Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, or broken skin
• Rinse thoroughly if contact occurs
• Stop use if irritation or allergic reaction develops
• Do not use on inflamed or damaged skin

9. Drug Interactions

Nizoral Shampoo is not absorbed into the bloodstream in significant amounts, so interactions are unlikely.

• Safe to use with most topical or oral medications
• If using steroid creams on the scalp, consult your doctor before combining with Nizoral

10. Storage Instructions

• Store below 30°C
• Keep in a cool, dry place away from sunlight
• Do not freeze
• Keep out of reach of children
• Check expiry date before use

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is Nizoral safe during pregnancy?
A: Generally safe for scalp use, but consult your doctor first.

Q: Can I use it with antibiotics or other hair products?
A: Yes, Nizoral does not interact with most other products.

Q: What if it gets into my eyes?
A: Rinse eyes immediately with plenty of water.

Q: When will it start working?
A: You may notice improvement within 1–2 weeks of regular use.

Q: Can children use Nizoral Shampoo?
A: It is suitable for children 12 years and older. For younger children, ask your doctor.

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13. Author’s Note

This article was reviewed by Ajith Aranhi, BPharm (License No. PH27712, QCHP), a licensed pharmacist with expertise in over-the-counter and prescription medicines. Our goal is to provide safe, accurate, and easy-to-understand healthcare information.