Ketoconazole+zinc
About
Ketoconazole+zinc belongs to a class of dermatological medication called 'antifungals' primarily used to prevent scalp fungal infections like seborrheic dermatitis with dandruff. Seborrheic dermatitis is a dandruff type that causes an itchy rash with dry, flaky scales on the skin that contains oil glands such as the scalp, face, back and upper chest.
Ketoconazole+zinc contains Ketoconazole and Zinc, used to treat dermatitis. It works by destroying or rupturing the outer fungal cell membranes (essential for survival ) and kills fungi. Hence, slowing the growth of dandruff on the scalp.
Ketoconazole+zinc is available as lotion and shampoo. Ketoconazole+zinc is for use on skin and scalp only. Ketoconazole+zinc in shampoo form is used as suggested by a physician. If Ketoconazole+zinc is advised in lotion form, apply Ketoconazole+zinc evenly on the clean and dry affected area. Some people may experience itching, redness, irritation or burning sensation at the site of application. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if the side effects persist or worsen, please consult your physician.
Avoid contact of Ketoconazole+zinc with nose, ears, mouth or eyes. In case Ketoconazole+zinc comes in contact with these areas accidentally, rinse with water thoroughly. If you are known to be allergic to Ketoconazole+zinc or any other medicines, please tell your physician. If you are pregnant or a nursing mother, it is advised to consult a physician before using Ketoconazole+zinc. Avoid smoking or going near naked flames as Ketoconazole+zinc catches fire and burns easily. If you are using any steroidal cream, lotion or ointment, inform your physician before taking Ketoconazole+zinc. Do not swallow Ketoconazole+zinc. In case of accidental swallowing, contact a nearby poison control centre or consult a doctor immediately.
Uses of Ketoconazole+zinc
Medicinal Benefits
Ketoconazole+zinc is a combination of two antifungal drugs, namely Ketoconazole and Zinc, that is primarily used to treat fungal infections of the skin, such as seborrheic dermatitis (dry, flaky skin on face, scalp, chest, upper back or ears). It also treats pain and inflammation associated with dandruff and helps in relieving scalp itching and redness. The fungal cell membranes are essential for their survival as they prevent unwanted substances into the cells and stop the leakage of cell contents. Ketoconazole+zinc causes holes in the fungal cell membranes and kills fungi. Thus, it clears fungal infections and provides relief from cracking, burning, scaling, and itching of the skin caused due to infections.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Ketoconazole+zinc
- Itching
- Redness
- Irritation
- Burning sensation
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
If you use any steroidal cream, lotion or ointment, inform your physician before taking Ketoconazole+zinc. Avoid contact of Ketoconazole+zinc with nose, mouth or eyes. If Ketoconazole+zinc comes in contact with these areas accidentally, rinse with water thoroughly. If you are known to be allergic to Ketoconazole+zinc or any other medicines, please tell your physician. Avoid smoking or going near naked flames as Ketoconazole+zinc catches fire and burns quickly. Do not swallow Ketoconazole+zinc. In case of accidental swallowing, contact a nearby poison control centre or consult a doctor immediately. For breastfeeding and pregnant women, Ketoconazole+zinc should only be used if a physician suggest it.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interaction: Other azole antifungals (clotrimazole, econazole or miconazole).
Drug-Food Interaction: No interactions found.
Drug-Disease Interaction: No interactions found.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
not applicableNo interactions were found.
Pregnancy
cautionIf you are pregnant, please consult your physician before using Ketoconazole+zinc.
Breast Feeding
cautionPlease consult a physician before using Ketoconazole+zinc if you are breastfeeding.
Driving
not applicableKetoconazole+zinc usually does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Liver
cautionKetoconazole+zinc should be used with caution if you have liver problems. Please consult your physician for further advice.
Kidney
cautionKetoconazole+zinc should be used with caution if you have kidney problems. Please consult your physician for further advice.
Children
cautionKetoconazole+zinc is not recommended for children below 12 years as the safety and effectiveness were not established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Eat foods rich in anti-inflammatory properties such as tomatoes, olive oil, plenty of green, leafy vegetables, strawberries, cherries, blueberries, bell peppers, sweet potatoes, almonds, avocados and wheat germ to fight inflammation (swelling and redness).
- Take fish oil supplements to suppress flare-ups of dermatitis triggered by allergies and boost overall immunity.
- Regularly wash the affected areas with mild shampoo.
- Use conditioners, shampoos and other products containing tea tree oil, as they might help to relieve itching.
- Avoid styling hair sprays and gels during a flare.
- Avoid alcohol-based products as they trigger a reaction.
Special Advise
- Ketoconazole+zinc is for use on skin and scalp only. Avoid contact of Ketoconazole+zinc with nose, mouth or eyes. If Ketoconazole+zinc comes in contact with these areas accidentally, rinse with water thoroughly.
- Wash your hands before and after using Ketoconazole+zinc if your hands are not the affected area to prevent the spread of infection.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Seborrheic dermatitis: A fungal infection is a skin disease in which a fungus attacks the tissue and causes infection. Fungal infections may be contagious (spread from one person to another). Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition that causes an itchy rash with dry, flaky scales on the skin that contains oil glands such as the scalp, face, back and upper chest. It may also cause stubborn dandruff. The treatment for Seborrheic dermatitis includes medicated lotions, shampoos, creams and self-care.
FAQs
Ketoconazole+zinc is a combination of two antifungal drugs, Ketoconazole and Zinc, primarily used to treat fungal infections by rupturing the fungal cell membranes, thereby killing them. Thereby, it prevents fungal infection growth and relieves cracking, burning, scaling, flaking and itching of the skin caused due to infections.
Yes, fungal infection is a contagious skin condition that spreads from one person to another through direct skin-to-skin contact or by contact with contaminated soil or surfaces and infected animals. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid close direct contact until the infection is clear and avoid sharing things with the infected person as it can also spread the infection.
You are not recommended to stop using Ketoconazole+zinc without consulting your physician as it may cause recurring infections. Therefore, take Ketoconazole+zinc for as long as your physician has recommended it, and if you experience any difficulty while taking Ketoconazole+zinc, please consult your physician.
You are recommended to apply makeup or sunscreen to the treated skin area after a minimum of 20 minutes of using Ketoconazole+zinc.
No, Ketoconazole+zinc does not cure Seborrheic dermatitis. However, treatment with Ketoconazole+zinc can control and reduce the symptoms of Seborrheic dermatitis.
You are recommended to use Ketoconazole+zinc for as long as your physician has recommended it. However, if the condition persists or worsens after 2 to 4 weeks of treatment with Ketoconazole+zinc, please consult a physician.
You may be advised to stop using cream or lotion containing steroids such as hydrocortisone or betamethasone before using Ketoconazole+zinc. However, inform your physician if you are using any steroidal creams or lotions before using Ketoconazole+zinc so that the dose of steroidal cream may be reduced gradually to avoid flaring up the condition while using Ketoconazole+zinc.
