Ketoconazole belongs to the family of medications called antifungals. It is used for the treatment of certain types of serious fungal infections. Ketoconazole is used to treat both internal (in the body) and external (on the skin) fungal infections.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended adult dose of ketoconazole is 200 mg once daily with a meal. Occasionally, adults may need to take 400 mg daily. Children's doses are based on their body weight.
The length of treatment depends on the response to the medication as well as the condition being treated; it can range from one week to 12 months. Ketoconazole should not be taken within two hours of taking an antacid.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is very important that this medication be used exactly as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose of scheduled medication use it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Each white-to-slightly-grey, half-scored tablet, imprinted "JANSSEN" on one side and "NIZORAL" on the other, contains ketoconazole 200 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients include colloidal silicone dioxide, cornstarch, lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and povidone. This medication does not contain bisulfites, gluten, or tartrazine.
Who should NOT take this medication?
This medication should not be used by:
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anyone allergic to ketoconazole or to any of the ingredients of the medication
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women who may become pregnant, unless effective forms of birth control are used
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anyone with reduced liver function
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anyone taking any of the following medications:
What side effects are possible with this medication?
The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor. Your health professional may be able to help you to deal with some of the effects.
The following side effects may go away as your body becomes used to the medication; check with your doctor if the following side effects continue or become bothersome.
Less common
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constipation
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diarrhea
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dizziness
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drowsiness
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headache
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nausea
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vomiting
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:
Less common
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fever and chills
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skin rash and itching
Rare
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dark or amber urine
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fever and sore throat
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loss of appetite
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pale stools
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reddening, blistering, peeling, or loosening of skin and mucous membranes
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stomach pain
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unusual bleeding or bruising
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unusual tiredness or weakness
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yellow eyes or skin
Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.
Are there any other precautions or warnings for this medication?
Liver function: Liver disorders may occur while taking ketoconazole, so based on how long you need to take the medication, your doctor will order lab tests to check your liver function. Signs of problems that should be reported to your doctor include:
Pregnancy: Before using ketoconazole during pregnancy, very careful consideration should be given to the implications for both the mother and the unborn child. This medication should not be used by pregnant women unless the the benefits outweigh the risks. Women of childbearing age must use an effective form of birth control while taking this medication.
Breast-feeding: Ketoconazole passes into breast milk. Nursing women should stop breast-feeding before starting therapy with ketoconazole.
Children: Caution should be used when this medication is taken by children and their liver function should be monitored carefully.
What other drugs could interact with this medication?
If you are taking any of these medications, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:
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stop taking one of the medications,
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change one of the medications to another,
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change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
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leave everything as is.
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