Ketoconazole 2%

Category- Allopathy

Medicine Highlights

Ketoconazole Uses 

Ketoconazole 2% is an antifungal medicine that helps fight skin infections caused by fungus and yeast. It is useful for the following: 

1. Fungal infection of the skin (ring worm, athlete’s foot) 
2. Symptoms of itching, redness, inflammation, flaking and discomfort due to fungal growth 
3. Seborrheic dermatitis affecting skin folds, chest and back  

Directions for use

1. If you forget to take Ketoconazole, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. 
2. Take Ketoconazole exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the same time each day.  
3. Do not stop taking Ketoconazole without your doctor’s approval, even if you feel better.

Ketoconazole side effects 

More Common  

1. Mild redness 
2. Burning or stinging feeling 
3. Itching 
4. Dryness or peeling 

Less Common

1. Rash or hives 
2. Swelling 
3. Severe irritation or blistering 
4. Signs of allergy (trouble breathing, severe swelling) 

How Ketoconazole works 

Ketoconazole works by killing the fungus that causes skin problems. It damages the outer covering of the fungus, which stops it from growing and spreading. As the fungus dies, symptoms like itching, flaking, and redness slowly get better. Regular use helps clear the infection completely and prevents it from coming back. 

Safety Measures and Warning 

Allergy or hypersensitivity

If you have ever experienced a rash, itching, or swelling after using ketoconazole, cetrimide, or product containing the same ingredient, please inform your doctor before using it again to avoid any allergic reaction. 

Sensitive or Damaged Skin

Kindly avoid applying this cream on open wounds, burns, or irritated skin until the area is completely healed as it may cause stinging, burning, or worsen the irritation. 

Infants

Their skin is delicate and may absorb too much medicine, which can irritate their skin. Always consult your doctor before using it. 

Other Antifungal/Medicated Products

People using other antifungal creams, medicated shampoos, or steroid creams in the same area. Mixing too many medicines can cause over-drying, peeling, or irritation of the skin. 

Ketoconazole Interaction with Food Product

Avoid consuming caffeinated foods as they can cause side effects like allergies and skin rashes. Also avoid drinking alcohol and smoking can increase side effects. 

Ketoconazole Interaction with Other Medicines

Avoid taking Ketoconazole with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal: 

Ketoconazole Chemical Structure

IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name

1-[4-[4-[[(2R,4S)-2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-2-(1H-imidazol-1-ylmethyl)-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl]methoxy]phenyl]piperazin-1-yl]ethanone 

Intake routine/cycle

Daily dose

Take Ketoconazole exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor. 

Missed Dose

If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage. 

Overdose

Do not use more than the recommended amount of Ketoconazole cream on your skin, as using too much can increase the risk of side effects like skin irritation, redness, burning, or rash. If severe reactions such as swelling, blistering, or difficulty breathing occur, stop using it and seek medical attention immediately. 

Storage

1. Store the medicine at room temperature 
2. Keep away from sunlight and moisture 
3. Keep out of reach of children 

Ketoconazole Summary

Ketoconazole 2% cream is a medicine used on the skin to treat fungal infections. It helps with problems like ringworm (round, itchy rashes), athlete’s foot (fungus between toes), jock itch (itchy rash in the groin), dandruff-like patches on the face or body (seborrheic dermatitis), and discolored spots on the back or chest (pityriasis versicolor). 

You should apply a thin layer of the cream only on the affected area, as your doctor tells you. Wash and dry the skin before using it. Keep it away from your eyes, mouth, and broken skin. Most people do not have problems with this cream, but sometimes it can cause mild burning, itching, or redness where you apply it. Rarely, it may cause rashes, swelling, or an allergic reaction if that happens, stop using it and tell your doctor. 

FAQ’s

What are the uses of Ketoconazole 2% cream? 

It is used to treat fungal skin infections such as ringworm, athlete’s foot, jock itch, pityriasis versicolor, and seborrheic dermatitis (scaly, itchy patches). 

Can I apply Ketoconazole 2% cream on face? 

Yes, it can be used on the face if prescribed by a doctor, mainly for fungal infections or seborrheic dermatitis (red, scaly patches). 

What is the price of Ketoconazole 2% cream? 

Ketoconazole 2% cream price at SayaCare is about 28 rupees, at SayaCare we provide test report with each medicine. Also, at SayaCare we provide you with up to 80% less cost than the market. 

What are the side effects of Ketoconazole 2% cream? 

Ketoconazole side effects cause mild redness, burning, itching, dryness, or rash, swelling, or allergic reaction. 

Reference 

1. PubChem. Ketoconazole [Internet]. pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Available from 
2. Ketoconazole (Topical Route) Description and Brand Names – Mayo Clinic [Internet]. www.mayoclinic.org. Available from 
3. Ketoconazole Topical: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing – WebMD [Internet]. www.webmd.com. Available from  

Pranathi Chintaluri

Pranathi is a final year Pharm D student at Chalapathi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences. She loves learning and applying her knowledge in pharmacy and has a passion for writing, which allows her to express ideas clearly and creatively. She enjoys combining her technical skills with her love for writing and communication to make a meaningful impact. Currently she is working on a research paper about “Consanguineous marriages and its impact on children’s health” which will be published by the end of 2025.