Ketoconazole: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Ketoconazole is an antifungal medicine used in shampoo to control the flaking, scaling and itching associated with dandruff. It belongs to a group of antifungals that interfere with the protective membrane around fungal cells, and it is available in several forms. Ketoconazole requires a prescription in the United Kingdom, and generic versions are available.

Ketoconazole is an antifungal medicine. Medicines in this group interfere with the production of a substance that fungi need to build their cell membranes. These membranes act as protective barriers around fungal cells.

When their formation is disrupted, the fungi cannot grow normally. In a shampoo, this antifungal action occurs where the product contacts the skin of the scalp. This explains its role in controlling dandruff symptoms such as flaking, scaling and itching.

The shampoo label lists control of flaking, scaling and itching associated with dandruff. Flaking and scaling describe the loose skin flakes that can appear on the scalp, while itching is the uncomfortable feeling that makes the scalp feel irritated. The stated use is to control these symptoms.

Although ketoconazole is available in several forms, the dandruff indication described here relates to the shampoo. This page does not list other conditions for those forms.

The label lists shampoo strengths including 1 g/100 mL, 1 mg/100 mL, 10 mg/mL and 20 mg/mL, alongside cream, foam, liquid, soap and oral tablet forms. The label lists shampoo use every 3-4 days for up to 8 weeks or as directed by a doctor, for adults and children 12 years and older. The label lists subsequent shampoo use only as needed to control dandruff.

The shampoo directions describe wetting the hair thoroughly, lathering generously, rinsing thoroughly and repeating. For children under 12 years, the label says to ask a doctor.

Keep the shampoo in its original container, with the closure securely fastened, and out of reach of children. Follow any storage directions on the packaging to maintain quality. No specific temperature, light or moisture conditions are listed.

If a scheduled shampoo use is missed, general pharmacy advice is to resume the usual schedule rather than use extra shampoo to make up for it. If there is uncertainty about when to resume, a pharmacist can advise. The label also describes use as needed after the initial treatment period.

The shampoo label does not specify pregnancy or breastfeeding data. Anyone who is pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding should discuss ketoconazole with a doctor or pharmacist before use. They can advise whether the product is suitable.