Drug Name

Nizoral (Ketoconazole)

Drug Uses

Nizoral is used to treat a variety of fungal infections. Examples of these fungal infections include candida infections of the skin or mouth (thrush), blastomycosis, histoplasmosis, coccidiomycosis, and others. Nizoral is also used to treat fungal infections that have not responded to griseofulvin, another antifungal medication.

How Taken

Nizoral may be taken with or without food. Nizoral tablets need the acidity of the stomach to dissolve. Therefore, Nizoral should be administered at least two hours before taking antacids or acid-inhibiting medications (such as Tagamet or Zantac). Nizoral should be avoided by patients with liver dysfunction. Signs of liver problems include unusual fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, yellowing of the skin (jaundice), dark urine, and pale stools. Development of these symptoms while taking Nizoral should be reported to the physician.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Nizoral is an antifungal medication. Fungi are organisms normally found on the skin and in moist areas of the body. When the skin is injured or chronically moistened, or normal bacteria flora of the body are altered due to prolonged antibiotic treatment, fungus can proliferate to cause inflammation of the skin or moist body areas. Fungus organisms can also infect the lungs and other body tissues especially in patients with weakened immune systems.

Missed Dose

Apply the missed dose as soon as possible but not if it is almost time for the next dose. If it is time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.

Storage

Nizoral tablets: store at 59-86degrees F, protect from moisture. Nizoral shampoo: store at a temperature not above 77 degrees F, protect from light.

Warnings/Precautions

Be sure your doctor knows your medical history, especially of: allergies. This medication should be used cautiously during pregnancy only if clearly needed. This medication may appear in breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this cream.

Possible Side Effects

This medication may cause burning, stinging or redness when first applied to the skin. This should disappear in a few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

More Information

This medication is prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it for another infection or share it with someone else. Another infection later on may require a different medicine.