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:
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.
