Category- Allopathy
Medicine Highlights
| Uses | 1. To treat fungal infection of the skin (ring worm, athlete’s foot) 2. To reduce the symptoms of itching, redness, inflammation, flaking and discomfort due to fungal growth 3. To treat seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff affecting skin folds, chest and back |
| Common Side Effects | 1. Dryness or rough skin 2. Mild redness or irritation 3. Itching or burning feeling |
| Additional Information | 1. This soap contains 2% ketoconazole, 0.5% cetrimide, and a soap base with added perfume and color. 2. Use sunscreen or cover your skin when going outside. |
| Storage | 1- The medicine should be stored at room temperature 2- Keep away from sunlight and moisture 3- Keep away from the reach of children |
| How to Take This Medicine | This medicated soap is applied on the skin |
Ketoconazole Uses
Ketoconazole 2% is an antifungal medicine that helps fight skin infections caused by fungus and yeast. It is useful for the following:
- Fungal infection of the skin (ring worm, athlete’s foot)
- Reduce the symptoms of itching, redness, inflammation, flaking and discomfort due to fungal growth
- Seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff affecting skin folds, chest and back
Directions for use
- This soap contains 2% ketoconazole, 0.5% cetrimide, and a soap base with added perfume and color.
- Use sunscreen or cover your skin when going outside.
- Avoid applying around eye
Ketoconazole side effects
More Common
- Dryness or rough skin
- Mild redness or irritation
- Itching or burning feeling
Less Common
- Rash or swelling
- Severe itching or peeling
- Blistering skin
- 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.
Safety Measures and Warning
Allergy/Hypersensitivity
Anyone who has had a skin rash, itching, or swelling after using ketoconazole, cetrimide, or similar products should avoid using this medicine and inform their doctor.
People with Very Sensitive or Damaged Skin
People with open wounds, burns, or very irritated skin. The soap may sting, burn, or make the skin worse. Wait until the skin heals before use.
Infants
Their skin is delicate and may absorb too much medicine, which can irritate their skin. Always consult your doctor before use
People Already Using 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 Other Medicines
Avoid taking Ketoconazole with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases and it could be fatal:
Ketoconazole Interaction with Food Product
Avoid taking Ketoconazole with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal:
Storage
- Store the medicine at room temperature
- Keep away from sunlight and moisture
- Keep out of reach of children
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.
Ketoconazole Summary
Ketoconazole 2% soap is a medicated soap used to treat fungal skin infections. It works by damaging the outer layer of the fungus, which stops the fungus from growing and spreading. As the fungus dies, symptoms like itching, redness, and scaling improve. This makes it helpful for conditions like dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis), ringworm, athlete’s foot, jock itch, and tinea versicolor (discolored patches on the skin).
To use this soap, wet the affected area, apply and lather the soap, leave it for a few minutes, then rinse with water. Use it regularly as advised by your doctor for the best results. Some people may feel mild irritation, dryness, or itching, which usually goes away. Avoid using it on open wounds, broken skin, or near eyes. People with allergies to ketoconazole or very sensitive skin should avoid this soap. Regular use clears infection and helps prevent it from coming back.
FAQ’s
What are the uses of Ketoconazole 2% soap?
It is used to treat fungal skin infections like dandruff, ringworm, and itching with redness or scaling.
How should I use Ketoconazole 2% soap?
Wash the affected area, apply the soap, make lather, leave it for a few minutes, and then wash off with water. Use as often as advised by your doctor.
Are there any side effects for Ketoconazole 2% soap?
Some people may get mild itching, redness, or dryness on the skin. If you notice swelling, severe rash, or burning that does not stop, see your doctor.
Reference
- PubChem. Ketoconazole [Internet]. pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Available from
- 1mg.com. Keto Soap [Internet]. 1mg. 2025 [cited 2025 Sep 16]. Available from
- K-II 2 Soap [Internet]. Apollo Pharmacy. 2024 [cited 2025 Sep 16]. Available from
Authors
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.