Nizoral Shampoo

= Prescription Required = Generic Equvalent
Nizoral Shampoo
2% Shampoo
Ketoconazole Topical

Nizoral Shampoo Prescription Drug Information

Ketoconazole (On the skin)
Ketoconazole (kee-toe-KON-a-zole)

Treats seborrheic dermatitis (scaly areas on your skin or scalp).

Brand Name(s):Extina, Xolegel
There may be other brand names for Nizoral Shampoo.

When Nizoral Shampoo Should Not Be Used:
You should not use Nizoral Shampoo if you have had an allergic reaction to ketoconazole.

How to Use Nizoral Shampoo:
Foam, Gel/Jelly

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of Nizoral Shampoo to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • Nizoral Shampoo is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, mouth, or vagina. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts or scrapes. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using Nizoral Shampoo.
  • Apply a thin layer to the affected area and the healthy skin right around the affected area. Rub it in gently.
  • If you are using the foam, do not spray it directly on your hand because it will begin to melt as soon as it touches your skin. Instead, spray the foam into the cap of the medicine can or other cool surface. Then dip your fingertips into the foam to pick up small amounts of the medicine, and apply to the affected skin areas. Gently massage the foam into your skin until it disappears.
  • If you are treating skin areas with hair, such as your scalp, move any hair away so the foam can be applied directly to the affected skin.
  • Do not wash the areas where you applied Nizoral Shampoo for at least 3 hours after you apply it.
  • Cosmetics (makeup or sunscreens) may be put on the affected areas 20 minutes after you apply the medicine.
  • Nizoral Shampoo is flammable. Do not use it near heat, an open flame, or while smoking. Do not puncture, break, or burn the foam can.

If a dose of Nizoral Shampoo is missed:

  • If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, apply it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to apply the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of Nizoral Shampoo:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine container and any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
  • Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid While Taking Nizoral Shampoo:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.


Warnings While Using Nizoral Shampoo:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
  • Do not use Nizoral Shampoo for a skin problem that has not been checked by your doctor.
  • Nizoral Shampoo may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use a sunscreen when you are outdoors. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.
  • Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits while you are using Nizoral Shampoo. Be sure to keep all appointments.
  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using Nizoral Shampoo:
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Burning where you applied the medicine.
  • Eye irritation, dryness, swelling, or redness.
  • Numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings.
  • Skin rash, discharge, swelling, dryness, redness, itching, pain, or blisters.
  • Swelling of the face.

If you notice these less serious side effects while taking Nizoral Shampoo, talk with your doctor:

  • Acne.
  • Dizziness.
  • Headache.
  • Nail discoloration.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by Nizoral Shampoo, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

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