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General Medication Fact Sheet for Nizoral
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Medication Name | Nizoral |
| Generic Name | Ketoconazole |
| Boxed/Label Warning | Oral ketoconazole can cause serious liver damage and adrenal gland problems. Use only when other effective antifungals are not available or tolerated. |
| Purpose | Antifungal medication used to treat fungal infections of the skin and body. |
| Mechanism of Action | Inhibits the synthesis of ergosterol, a key component of fungal cell membranes, leading to cell death. |
| Dosage Forms | Oral tablets, topical cream, topical shampoo |
| Available Strengths | 200 mg (oral), 2% (topical cream, shampoo) |
| Dosage Frequency | Oral: Once daily; Topical: As directed by a healthcare provider. |
| Common Side Effects | Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, dizziness, itching (topical), dry skin (topical). |
| Serious Side Effects | Liver damage, adrenal insufficiency, QT prolongation, severe allergic reactions. |
| Drug Interactions | Many medications, including certain antacids, H2-receptor antagonists, proton pump inhibitors, warfarin, phenytoin, rifampin, and others. Consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist. |
| Important Notes | Oral ketoconazole should be used cautiously due to potential liver toxicity. Regular liver function tests are recommended. Avoid using with alcohol. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from moisture and light. |
| Missed Dose | If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose. |
| Alternatives | Fluconazole, Itraconazole, Terbinafine, Miconazole (topical), Ciclopirox (topical). |
Nizoral Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fluconazole (Diflucan) | Inhibits fungal cytochrome P450 enzyme, reducing ergosterol synthesis. | Available in oral and IV forms. Used for various fungal infections. |
| Itraconazole (Sporanox) | Inhibits fungal cytochrome P450 enzyme, reducing ergosterol synthesis. | Available in oral capsules and solution. Used for a broad range of fungal infections. |
| Terbinafine (Lamisil) | Inhibits squalene epoxidase, an enzyme involved in ergosterol synthesis. | Effective for dermatophyte infections, especially nail infections. |
| Miconazole (Monistat, topical) | Inhibits ergosterol synthesis. | Topical antifungal for skin and vaginal yeast infections. |
Nizoral Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Nausea | Liver damage (jaundice, dark urine, fatigue) |
| Vomiting | Adrenal insufficiency (weakness, fatigue, dizziness) |
| Abdominal pain | QT prolongation (irregular heartbeat) |
| Headache | Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing) |
| Dizziness | Hair loss (oral) |
| Itching (topical) | Gynecomastia (enlargement of male breasts – oral) |
| Dry skin (topical) | Impotence (oral) |
Nizoral Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Candidiasis (Oral) | 200 mg once daily | 200 mg once daily | Take with food to increase absorption. |
| Candidiasis (Systemic) | 200 mg once daily | Up to 400 mg once daily | Take with food. Monitor liver function. |
| Tinea Infections (Topical) | Apply thin layer twice daily | Apply thin layer twice daily | Apply to affected area and surrounding skin. |
| Seborrheic Dermatitis (Shampoo) | Apply twice weekly for 2-4 weeks | Apply once every 1-2 weeks for maintenance | Leave shampoo on scalp for 5 minutes before rinsing. |
Nizoral Price With And Without Insurance
| Purchase Context | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| With Insurance | $15 |
| Without Insurance (U.S.) | $65 – $100 |
| From CPS | $28.95 |
