Ketoconazole

This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.

This drug may also be used for advanced prostate cancer.

Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using ketoconazole and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

If the can is warm or the foam is runny, place the can under cool running water for a few minutes before using.

Use this medication on the skin only. Clean and thoroughly dry the area to be treated. To keep the medication from melting on your fingers, wash your hands with cold water and dry thoroughly before applying. Hold the can upright. Do not spray the medication directly on the affected area or on your hands. Instead, spray the medication into the cap of the can or some other cool, clean surface. Using your fingertips, pick up the medication and gently and thoroughly rub into the affected areas as directed by your doctor, usually 2 times daily for 4 weeks. If treating the scalp, part your hair 1 section at a time, and apply the medication directly to the affected scalp area, not the hair.

Do not apply this medication in the eyes, nose, mouth, or inside the vagina. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water.

Wash your hands after applying the medication.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.

Tell your doctor if your condition worsens or does not improve after 4 weeks of treatment.

Burning or irritation at the application site may occur. If either of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using ketoconazole, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other azole antifungals (such as clotrimazole, miconazole); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history.

This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk when applied to the skin. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Do not share this medication with others.

This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another skin condition unless told to do so by your doctor. A different medication may be necessary in that case.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from heat. Do not store in the refrigerator or freezer. This product is flammable. Do not store or use near an open flame. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.