Indications 

Nizoral is an antifungal agent that is effective against fungal infections. Nizoral is not intended for the treatment of fungal infections of the nails or prostate cancer or Cushing syndrome. 

Nizoral should only be used if other antifungal medications are not available. Be aware that ketoconazole, the active ingredient in Nizoral, has the potential to cause severe liver damage, which may lead to the need for a liver transplant or even result in death. 

Uses and Dosage 

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before taking ketoconazole and upon every refill. In case you have any queries, seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist. 

Take this medicine orally as per your doctor’s directions, usually once a day. Although it can be taken with or without food, consumption with food can reduce stomach distress. 

If you are taking an antacid, ensure that you take ketoconazole at least 2 hours before or 1 hour after the antacid, to allow adequate absorption of ketoconazole in the body.  

The dosage and duration of treatment are dependent on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you might be taking.  

For optimum results, this medication should be taken at regular intervals to maintain a constant amount of medicine in your system. Take the drug at the same time every day to help you remember. 

Side Effects 

Severe Side Effects

Nizoral is a medication that is used to treat fungal infections of the skin and nails. Be aware of the potential side effects and adverse reactions that may occur while taking this medication. To ensure your safety, take note of the following: 

Signs of an allergic reaction or severe skin reaction: 

• Hives 
• Fever 
• Chest pain 
• Difficult breathing 
• Swelling in your face or throat 
• Sore throat 
• Burning eyes 
• Skin pain 
• Red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling 

Other symptoms that require medical attention: 

• Fast or pounding heartbeats 
• Fluttering in your chest 
• Shortness of breath 
• Sudden dizziness (like you might pass out) 
• Unusual weakness or tiredness 
• Nausea and vomiting 
• Upper stomach pain 
• Fever 
• Loss of appetite 
• Dark urine 
• Clay-colored stools 
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) 

Common Side Effects  

• Nausea 
• Diarrhea 
• Stomach pain 
• Breast swelling 
• Headache 
• Dizziness 
• Abnormal liver function tests 

If you experience any of these side effects or adverse reactions, contact your doctor immediately. Follow your doctor’s instructions when taking Nizoral to avoid any potential complications. 

Caution 

Prior to taking ketoconazole, disclose any known allergies or sensitivities to this medication or to other azole antifungal drugs, such as fluconazole or itraconazole, to your doctor or pharmacist. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that may cause allergic reactions or other complications, consult with your pharmacist for more details. 

Before using this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, particularly if you have a history of liver problems, alcohol use, low testosterone levels, decreased adrenal gland function, or low stomach acid production. 

Ketoconazole may lead to a condition that affects heart rhythm known as QT prolongation. QT prolongation can infrequently lead to severe and life-threatening symptoms such as irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting, which may necessitate immediate medical attention. 

The risk of QT prolongation may increase if you have certain medical conditions or if you are taking other medications that can cause QT prolongation. Before taking ketoconazole, inform your doctor or pharmacist of all the medications you are taking and whether you have any of the following conditions: heart failure, slow heartbeat, family history of certain heart problems (QT prolongation in the EKG, sudden cardiac death). 

Low levels of potassium or magnesium in the blood can increase the risk of QT prolongation. This risk may be exacerbated if you use certain medications such as diuretics or if you have conditions such as severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Consult your doctor before using ketoconazole to ensure safe use. 

Before undergoing any surgical procedure, inform your doctor or dentist about all medications, including prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs, and herbal products, that you are using. 

Refrain from consuming alcoholic beverages while taking ketoconazole, as alcohol consumption can increase the risk of serious liver problems. Furthermore, abstaining from alcohol may decrease the risk of a rare reaction that may result in flushing, headache, and nausea. 

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when the benefits outweigh the risks, consult with your doctor before taking ketoconazole. This medication passes into breast milk, consult with your doctor before breastfeeding while taking this medication.