Ketoconazole is an organic chemical compound found in popular (also over-the-counter) antifungal drugs. It can be used in the form of a shampoo, cream or ointment. Preparations containing ketoconazole are intended for both adults and children over 2 years of age.

Contents:

  1. Ketoconazole - shampoo, cream
  2. Ketoconazole - tablets. Can it be administered orally?
  3. Ketoconazole - indications
  4. Ketoconazole - contraindications
  5. Ketoconazole - side effects

Ketoconazoleis an organic compound that blocks the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of ergosterol. It is an antifungal drug, because ergosterol is one of the ingredients that builds the fungal cell membrane. The consequence of this is an increase in the permeability of the cell membrane, the loss of its protective functions and growth inhibition - the fungus eventually dies.

They are sensitive to ketoconazole, among others such mushrooms as:

  • Histoplasma- yeast-like fungus causing histoplasmosis; Histoplasma capsulatum infection is usually asymptomatic, the disease with visible symptoms most often affects patients with immunodeficiency
  • Cryptococcus- this type is pathogenic for humansCryptococcus neoformans- it attacks the central nervous system, lungs (organ and deep mycoses) or skin and subcutaneous tissue (superficial mycoses)
  • Candida - it constitutes the physiological flora of the gastrointestinal tract in 40-80% of the human population, however, e.g. with reduced immunity, it becomes a pathogenic fungus
  • Microsporum- it causes mycosis of the scalp in humans and animals

Ketoconazole - shampoo, cream

Ketoconazole is most often administered in the form of a cream or shampoo. Ketoconazole cream is applied once or twice a day, depending on the severity of symptoms, until symptoms disappear. Usually, such treatment lasts a few - a maximum of several days. The shampoo should be used twice a week for a month. Even if the symptoms have already disappeared - it prevents the disease from recurring.

Ketoconazole - tablets. Can it be administered orally?

In July 2013, the EuropeanThe Medicines Agency has recommended the suspension of the marketing authorizations for oral ketoconazole-containing medicines. The risk of liver damage was found to outweigh the benefits of treating fungal infections. In addition, it has been found that much safer antifungal drugs are available that either have the same or a similar effect.

However, it should be noted that topical ketoconazole (e.g. creams, ointments, shampoos) can still be used without fear, as the amount of absorbed substance is really small in these formulations.

Ketoconazole - indications

Ketoconazole can be used in diseases such as:

  • chronic recurrent vaginal mycoses (used in the form of globules and creams)
  • skin, hair and nail infections caused by dermatophytes or yeasts
  • prevention of fungal infections in immunocompromised patients (congenital or caused by other diseases or drugs)

Ketoconazole - contraindications

When using ketoconazole, pay attention to any disturbing symptoms - if you find hypersensitivity to the ingredients of the preparation, you should absolutely stop using it.

To date, no reliable drug-drug interaction studies have been performed with topical ketoconazole, the only thing that is known is that skin irritation may occur after administration of ketoconazole, e.g. in the form of ointments, immediately after topical and long-term treatment with corticosteroids .

To avoid this, doctors recommend that you gradually stop taking corticosteroids before starting ketoconazole treatment.

Systemic mycosis - causes, symptoms and treatment. Ways to fumigate the body

Onychomycosis: symptoms, treatment and prevention

Fungus of the skin - causes, symptoms and treatment

Ketoconazole - side effects

Like all drugs, ketoconazole can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

Due to the fact that this preparation is mainly administered externally, possible side effects most often appear only in the place of application of the drug.

The most common side effects are:

  • blush
  • irritation
  • hypersensitivity
  • itching
  • folliculitis
  • acne
  • contact dermatitis
  • dry skin
  • rash
  • burning sensation
  • exfoliating the epidermis

Therefore, when using ketoconazole, you should pay attention to any disturbing changes. In caseIf you have any doubts, stop using the drug and consult a specialist.

About the authorKarolina NowakA pharmaceutical technician by education. Currently, he is professionally fulfilled working in a pharmacy. Empathetic, sensitive and fond of contact with other people. Privately, a lover of a good book.

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