THE MERCK MANUAL MEDICAL LIBRARY: The Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy
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Ketoconazole Drug Information Provided by Lexi-Comp

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This information has been developed and provided by an independent third-party source. Merck & Co., Inc. does not endorse and is not responsible for the accuracy of the content, or for practices or standards of non-Merck sources.

ALERT: U.S. Boxed Warning

The FDA-approved labeling includes a boxed warning. See Warnings/Precautions section and/or refer to product labeling for additional detail.

Medication Safety Issues

Sound-alike/look-alike issues:

Kuric™ may be confused with Carac®

Nizoral® may be confused with Nasarel®, Neoral®, Nitrol®

Pronunciation

(kee toe KOE na zole)

U.S. Brand Names

  • Extina®
  • Kuric™
  • Nizoral®
  • Nizoral® A-D [OTC]
  • Xolegel™

Generic Available

Yes: Cream, shampoo, tablet

Canadian Brand Names

  • Apo-Ketoconazole®
  • Ketoderm®
  • Novo-Ketoconazole
  • Xolegel™

Pharmacologic Category

  • Antifungal Agent, Oral
  • Antifungal Agent, Topical

Pharmacologic Category Synonyms

  • Oral Antifungal Agent
  • Topical Antifungal Agent

Use: Labeled Indications

Systemic: Treatment of susceptible fungal infections, including candidiasis, oral thrush, blastomycosis, histoplasmosis, paracoccidioidomycosis, coccidioidomycosis, chromomycosis, candiduria, chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis, as well as certain recalcitrant cutaneous dermatophytoses

Topical:

Cream: Treatment of tinea corporis, tinea cruris, tinea versicolor, cutaneous candidiasis, seborrheic dermatitis

Foam, gel: Treatment of seborrheic dermatitis

Shampoo: Treatment of dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, tinea versicolor

Use: Dental

Treatment of susceptible fungal infections in the oral cavity including candidiasis, oral thrush, and chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis

Use: Unlabeled/Investigational

Tablet: Treatment of prostate cancer (androgen synthesis inhibitor)

Pregnancy Risk Factor

C

Pregnancy Considerations

Teratogenic effects were noted in animal studies. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.

Lactation

Enters breast milk/not recommended

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to ketoconazole or any component of the formulation; CNS fungal infections (due to poor CNS penetration); coadministration with ergot derivatives or cisapride is contraindicated due to risk of potentially fatal cardiac arrhythmias

Warnings/Precautions

Boxed warnings:

• Cisapride: See“Concurrent drug therapy issues” below.

• Hepatic impairment: See “Disease-related concerns” below.

Concerns related to adverse effects:

• Adrenal suppression: High doses of ketoconazole may depress adrenocortical function.

Disease-related concerns:

• Hepatic impairment: [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Ketoconazole has been associated with hepatotoxicity, including some fatalities; use with caution in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment; monitor liver function closely and dosage adjustment may be warranted.

Concurrent drug therapy issues:

• Cisapride: [U.S. Boxed Warning]: Concomitant use with cisapride is contraindicated due to the occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias.

Dosage form specific issues:

• Foam: Formulation contains alcohol and propane/butane; do not expose to open flame or smoking during or immediately after application. Do not puncture or incinerate container.

• Topical: Formulations may contain sulfites. Avoid exposure of gel to open flames during or immediately after application.

Adverse Reactions

Oral:

1% to 10%:

Dermatologic: Pruritus (2%)

Gastrointestinal: Nausea/vomiting (3% to 10%), abdominal pain (1%)

<1%: Bulging fontanelles, chills, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, fever, gynecomastia, headache, hemolytic anemia, hepatotoxicity, impotence, leukopenia, photophobia, somnolence, thrombocytopenia

Topical cream/gel: Allergic reaction, contact dermatitis (possibly related to sulfites or propylene glycol), facial swelling, headache, impetigo, local burning, ocular irritation, paresthesia, pruritus, severe irritation, stinging (?5%)

Topical foam: Application site burning (10%), application site reaction (6%), contact sensitization, dryness, erythema, pruritus, rash

Shampoo: Abnormal hair texture, hair loss increase, irritation (<1%), itching, mild dryness of skin, oiliness/dryness of hair, scalp pustules

Metabolism/Transport Effects

Substrate of CYP3A4 (major); Inhibits CYP1A2 (strong), 2A6 (moderate), 2B6 (weak), 2C8 (weak), 2C9 (strong), 2C19 (moderate), 2D6 (moderate), 3A4 (strong)

Drug Interactions

Alfentanil: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Alfentanil. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Alfuzosin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Alfuzosin. Risk X: Avoid combination

Aliskiren: Ketoconazole may increase the serum concentration of Aliskiren. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Almotriptan: Ketoconazole may increase the serum concentration of Almotriptan. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Alosetron: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Alosetron. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Antacids: May decrease the absorption of Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic). Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Aprepitant: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Aprepitant. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Bendamustine: CYP1A2 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Bendamustine. Concentrations of the active metabolites of bendamustine may be decreased. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Benzodiazepines (metabolized by oxidation): Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Benzodiazepines (metabolized by oxidation). Exceptions: Quazepam. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Bosentan: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Bosentan. Risk C: Monitor therapy

BusPIRone: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of BusPIRone. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Busulfan: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Busulfan. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Calcium Channel Blockers: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Calcium Channel Blockers. Exceptions: Clevidipine. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

CarBAMazepine: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of CarBAMazepine. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Cardiac Glycosides: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may increase the serum concentration of Cardiac Glycosides. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Ciclesonide: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Ciclesonide. Specifically, concentrations of the active des-ciclesonide metabolite may be increased. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Cilostazol: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Cilostazol. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Cinacalcet: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Cinacalcet. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Cisapride: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may increase the serum concentration of Cisapride. Risk X: Avoid combination

Codeine: CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate) may diminish the therapeutic effect of Codeine. These CYP2D6 inhibitors may prevent the metabolic conversion of codeine to its active metabolite morphine. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Conivaptan: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Conivaptan. Risk X: Avoid combination

Corticosteroids (Orally Inhaled): Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Corticosteroids (Orally Inhaled). Exceptions: Beclomethasone; Flunisolide; Triamcinolone. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Corticosteroids (Systemic): Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor therapy

CycloSPORINE: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of CycloSPORINE. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

CYP1A2 Substrates: CYP1A2 Inhibitors (Strong) may decrease the metabolism of CYP1A2 Substrates. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

CYP2A6 Substrates: CYP2A6 Inhibitors (Moderate) may decrease the metabolism of CYP2A6 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy

CYP2C19 Substrates: CYP2C19 Inhibitors (Moderate) may decrease the metabolism of CYP2C19 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy

CYP2C9 Substrates (High risk): CYP2C9 Inhibitors (Strong) may decrease the metabolism of CYP2C9 Substrates (High risk). Risk D: Consider therapy modification

CYP2D6 Substrates: CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate) may decrease the metabolism of CYP2D6 Substrates. Exceptions: Tamoxifen. Risk C: Monitor therapy

CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong): May increase the metabolism of CYP3A4 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy

CYP3A4 Substrates: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may decrease the metabolism of CYP3A4 Substrates. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Dabigatran Etexilate: P-Glycoprotein Inhibitors may increase the serum concentration of Dabigatran Etexilate. Risk X: Avoid combination

Didanosine: May decrease the absorption of Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic). Enteric coated didanosine capsules are not expected to affect these antifungals. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Docetaxel: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Docetaxel. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Dofetilide: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Dofetilide. Risk X: Avoid combination

Eletriptan: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may increase the serum concentration of Eletriptan. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Eplerenone: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Eplerenone. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Erlotinib: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Erlotinib. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Eszopiclone: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Eszopiclone. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Fexofenadine: Ketoconazole may increase the serum concentration of Fexofenadine. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Fosaprepitant: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may increase the serum concentration of Fosaprepitant. Specifically, concentrations of aprepitant are likely to be increased. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Gefitinib: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Gefitinib. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Grapefruit Juice: May increase the metabolism of Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic). This specifically applies to oral antifungal administration. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

H2-Antagonists: May decrease the absorption of Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic). Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Herbs (CYP3A4 Inducers): May increase the metabolism of CYP3A4 Substrates. Risk C: Monitor therapy

HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors. Exceptions: Fluvastatin; Rosuvastatin. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Imatinib: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Imatinib. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Irinotecan: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Irinotecan. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Ixabepilone: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Ixabepilone. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Losartan: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Losartan. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Macrolide Antibiotics: May decrease the metabolism of Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic). Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Macrolide Antibiotics. Exceptions: Azithromycin; Dirithromycin [Off Market]; Spiramycin. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Maraviroc: CYP3A4 Inhibitors may increase the serum concentration of Maraviroc. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Methadone: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may increase the serum concentration of Methadone. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Nebivolol: CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate) may increase the serum concentration of Nebivolol. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Nilotinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Nilotinib. Risk X: Avoid combination

P-Glycoprotein Substrates: P-Glycoprotein Inhibitors may increase the serum concentration of P-Glycoprotein Substrates. P-glycoprotein inhibitors may also enhance the distribution of p-glycoprotein substrates to specific cells/tissues/organs where p-glycoprotein is present in large amounts (e.g., brain, T-lymphocytes, testes, etc.). Risk C: Monitor therapy

Phenytoin: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may increase the serum concentration of Phenytoin. Phenytoin may decrease the serum concentration of Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic). Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Pimecrolimus: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may decrease the metabolism of Pimecrolimus. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Pimozide: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Pimozide. Risk X: Avoid combination

Praziquantel: Ketoconazole may increase the serum concentration of Praziquantel. Management: Praziquantel dose may need to be reduced when used with ketoconazole. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Protease Inhibitors: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may increase the serum concentration of Protease Inhibitors. Protease Inhibitors may increase the serum concentration of Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic). Management: Limit indinavir to 600mg every 8 hours with itraconazole or ketoconazole. When used with ritonavir, limit ketoconazole to 200mg/day. Tipranavir labeling recommends limiting fluconazole, itraconazole, and ketoconazole to 200mg with tipranavir/ritonavir. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Proton Pump Inhibitors: May decrease the absorption of Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic). Risk D: Consider therapy modification

QuiNIDine: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of QuiNIDine. Management: Itraconazole, voriconazole, and posaconazole are specifically contraindicated with quinidine. Use of quinidine with any azole antifungal may require quinidine dose adjustment and should be done with caution and close monitoring. Risk X: Avoid combination

Ramelteon: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Ramelteon. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Ranolazine: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Ranolazine. Risk X: Avoid combination

Repaglinide: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may increase the serum concentration of Repaglinide. Management: Concurrent use of an azole antifungal with both repaglinide and gemfibrozil should be avoided. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Rifamycin Derivatives: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may increase the serum concentration of Rifamycin Derivatives. Only rifabutin appears to be affected. Rifamycin Derivatives may decrease the serum concentration of Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic). Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Saccharomyces boulardii: Antifungal Agents may diminish the therapeutic effect of Saccharomyces boulardii. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Salmeterol: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Salmeterol. Risk X: Avoid combination

Sirolimus: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may increase the serum concentration of Sirolimus. Management: Sirolimus dose reductions of up to 50-90% may be necessary when starting an azole antifungal. Use of sirolimus with the azole antifungals voriconazole and posaconazole is contraindicated. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Solifenacin: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Solifenacin. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Sorafenib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Sorafenib. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Sucralfate: May decrease the absorption of Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic). Risk C: Monitor therapy

Sunitinib: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Sunitinib. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Tacrolimus: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Tacrolimus. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Tamoxifen: CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate) may decrease the metabolism of Tamoxifen. Specifically, CYP2D6 inhibitors may decrease the formation of highly potent active metabolites. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Temsirolimus: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may increase the serum concentration of Temsirolimus. Concentrations of the active metabolite, sirolimus, are likely to be increased more substantially than those of the parent temsirolimus. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Thioridazine: CYP2D6 Inhibitors may decrease the metabolism of Thioridazine. Risk X: Avoid combination

Tolterodine: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Tolterodine. This is likely only of concern in CYP2D6-deficient patients (ie, "poor metabolizers") Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Topotecan: P-Glycoprotein Inhibitors may increase the serum concentration of Topotecan. Risk X: Avoid combination

TraMADol: CYP2D6 Inhibitors (Moderate) may diminish the therapeutic effect of TraMADol. These CYP2D6 inhibitors may prevent the metabolic conversion of tramadol to its active metabolite that accounts for much of its opioid-like effects. Risk C: Monitor therapy

VinCRIStine: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of VinCRIStine. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Vitamin K Antagonists (eg, warfarin): Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Vitamin K Antagonists. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Ziprasidone: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Ziprasidone. Risk C: Monitor therapy

Zolpidem: Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic) may decrease the metabolism of Zolpidem. Risk D: Consider therapy modification

Ethanol/Nutrition/Herb Interactions

Food: Ketoconazole peak serum levels may be prolonged if taken with food.

Herb/Nutraceutical: St John's wort may decrease ketoconazole levels.

Storage

Cream: Store at <25°C (<77°F).

Foam: Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Do not refrigerate. Do not store in direct sunlight. Contents are flammable.

Gel: Store at 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F).

Shampoo: Store between 2°C to 30°C (35°F to 86°F); protect from freezing. Protect from light.

Tablet: Store at 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

Mechanism of Action

Alters the permeability of the cell wall by blocking fungal cytochrome P450; inhibits biosynthesis of triglycerides and phospholipids by fungi; inhibits several fungal enzymes that results in a build-up of toxic concentrations of hydrogen peroxide; also inhibits androgen synthesis

Pharmacodynamics/Kinetics

Absorption: Oral: Rapid (?75%); Shampoo: None; Gel: Minimal

Distribution: Well into inflamed joint fluid, saliva, bile, urine, breast milk, sebum, cerumen, feces, tendons, skin and soft tissue, and testes; crosses blood-brain barrier poorly; only negligible amounts reach CSF

Protein binding: 93% to 96%

Metabolism: Partially hepatic via CYP3A4 to inactive compounds

Bioavailability: Decreases as gastric pH increases

Half-life elimination: Biphasic: Initial: 2 hours; Terminal: 8 hours

Time to peak, serum: 1-2 hours

Excretion: Feces (57%); urine (13%)

Dosage

Oral:

Fungal infections:

Children ?2 years: 3.3-6.6 mg/kg/day as a single dose for 1-2 weeks for candidiasis, for at least 4 weeks in recalcitrant dermatophyte infections, and for up to 6 months for other systemic mycoses

Adults: 200-400 mg/day as a single daily dose for durations as stated above

Prostate cancer (unlabeled use): Adults: 400 mg 3 times/day

Shampoo: Seborrheic dermatitis, tinea versicolor: Children ?12 years and Adults: Apply twice weekly for 4 weeks with at least 3 days between each shampoo

Topical:

Tinea infections: Adults: Cream: Rub gently into the affected area once daily. Duration of treatment: Tinea corporis, cruris: 2 weeks; tinea pedis: 6 weeks

Seborrheic dermatitis: Children ?12 years and Adults:

Cream: Rub gently into the affected area twice daily for 4 weeks or until clinical response is noted

Foam: Apply to affected area twice daily for 4 weeks

Gel: Rub gently into the affected area once daily for 2 weeks

Dosing adjustment in hepatic impairment: Dose reductions should be considered in patients with severe liver disease

Hemodialysis: Not dialyzable (0% to 5%)

Dosage: Combination Regimens

Prostate cancer:

Doxorubicin + Ketoconazole

Doxorubicin + Ketoconazole/Estramustine + Vinblastine

Dental Usual Dosing

Oral fungal infections: Oral:

Children ?2 years: 3.3-6.6 mg/kg/day as a single dose for 1-2 weeks for candidiasis, for at least 4 weeks in recalcitrant dermatophyte infections, and for up to 6 months for other systemic mycoses

Adults: 200-400 mg/day as a single daily dose for durations as stated above

Administration: Oral

Administer oral tablets 2 hours prior to antacids to prevent decreased absorption due to the high pH of gastric contents.

Administration: Topical

Cream, foam, gel, and shampoo are for external use only. Avoid exposure to flame or smoking immediately following application of gel or foam; do not apply directly to hands.

Monitoring Parameters

Liver function tests

Dietary Considerations

Tablet: May be taken with food or milk to decrease GI adverse effects.

Patient Education

Do not take any new prescription or OTC medications or herbal products during therapy without consulting prescriber. Oral formulations may be taken with food, at least 2 hours before any antacids. Maintain adequate hydration (2-3 L/day of fluids) unless instructed to restrict fluid intake. Cream, foam, gel, and shampoo are for external use only. Use full course of medication as directed; some infections may require long periods of therapy. If you have diabetes, test serum glucose regularly; may impact effectiveness of oral hypoglycemics. May cause nausea and vomiting (small, frequent meals, frequent mouth care, sucking lozenges, or chewing gum may help). Report unresolved headache, rash or itching, yellowing of eyes or skin, changes in color of urine or stool, chest pain or palpitations, sense of fullness or ringing in ears, or if condition worsens. Pregnancy/breast-feeding precautions: Inform prescriber if you are or intend to become pregnant. Breast-feeding is not recommended.

Cream, foam, and gel: Apply exactly as directed. Wash hands thoroughly before and after applying; keep away from eyes or mouth. Keep Extina foam can away from open fire, flame, or direct heat (Extina foam is flammable). You may experience some burning, dryness, irritation, or rash at site of application. Report severe or persistent adverse effects or if condition worsens.

Shampoo: Use as directed. May cause some temporary hair loss, scalp irritation, itching, or change in hair texture. Report severe or persistent adverse effects or if condition worsens.

Geriatric Considerations

No specific recommendations.

Cardiovascular Considerations

Ketoconazole may increase cyclosporine levels by up to 50% at high doses. It may also potentiate the anticoagulant effect of warfarin and can increase lovastatin and simvastatin levels. Concomitant administration with cisapride is contraindicated.

Dental Health: Effects on Dental Treatment

No significant effects or complications reported

Dental Health: Vasoconstrictor/Local Anesthetic Precautions

No information available to require special precautions

Mental Health: Effects on Mental Status

May cause drowsiness, dizziness, or depression

Mental Health: Effects on Psychiatric Treatment

May cause leukopenia; use caution with clozapine and carbamazepine

Nursing: Physical Assessment/Monitoring

Evaluate hepatic function prior to beginning therapy. Assess potential for interactions with other pharmacological agents or herbal products patient may be taking (eg, anything that reduces gastric acidity may result in treatment failures with ketoconazole, concurrent use of ergot derivatives or cisapride increases the risk of potentially fatal cardiac arrhythmias, oral contraceptive efficacy may be reduced). Assess liver function, therapeutic effect (resolution of viral infection), and adverse reactions on a regular basis. Instruct patients with diabetes to monitor glucose levels closely; may impact effectiveness of oral hypoglycemics. Teach patient proper use (administration or application) and necessity of completing full therapy, possible side effects/appropriate interventions (eg, importance of adequate hydration), and adverse symptoms to report.

Dosage Forms

Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.

Aerosol, topical [foam]:

Extina®: 2% (50 g, 100 g)

Cream, topical: 2% (15 g, 30 g, 60 g)

Kuric™: 2%: (75 g)

Gel, topical:

Xolegel™: 2% (15 g) [contains dehydrated alcohol 34%]

Shampoo, topical: 1% (120 mL), 2% (120 mL)

Nizoral®: 2% (120 mL)

Nizoral® A-D: 1% (120 mL, 210 mL)

Tablet: 200 mg

Pricing: U.S. (www.drugstore.com)

Cream (Kuric)

2% (25): $45.99

2% (75): $92.77

Foam (Extina)

2% (100): $296.98

Shampoo (Ketoconazole)

2% (120): $27.98

Shampoo (Nizoral)

2% (120): $37.99

Tablets (Ketoconazole)

200 mg (14): $30.99

Tablets (Nizoral)

200 mg (14): $64.27

Extemporaneously Prepared

A 20 mg/mL suspension may be made by pulverizing twelve 200 mg ketoconazole tablets to a fine powder; add 40 mL Ora-Plus® in small portions with thorough mixing; incorporate Ora-Sweet® to make a final volume of 120 mL and mix thoroughly; refrigerate (no stability information is available)

Allen LV, “Ketoconazole Oral Suspension,” US Pharm, 1993, 18(2):98-9, 101.

References

Como JA and Dismukes WE, “Oral Azole Drugs as Systemic Antifungal Therapy,” N Engl J Med, 1994, 330(4):263-72.

Ginsburg AM, McCracken GH Jr, and Olsen K, “Pharmacology of Ketoconazole Suspension in Infants and Children,” Antimicrob Agents Chemother, 1983, 23(5):787-9.

Gorman SE, Dela Cruz F, and Paloucek F, “Ketoconazole and Zidovudine Overdose,” Am J Emerg Med, 1995, 13(1):115-6.

Greenblatt DJ, von Moltke LL, Harmatz JS, et al, “Interaction of Triazolam and Ketoconazole,” Lancet, 1995, 345(8943):191.

Herrod HG, “Chronic Mucocutaneous Candidiasis in Childhood and Complications of non-Candida Infection: A Report of the Pediatric Immunodeficiency Collaborative Study Group,” J Pediatr, 1990, 116(3):377-82.

Hwang WL, Gau JP, Young JH, et al, “Ketoconazole and High-Dose Methylprednisolone Predisposing to Cyclosporine-Induced Seizures: A Report of Three Cases,” Acta Haematol, 1992, 88(2-3):139-41.

Janssen PA and Symoens JE, “Hepatic Reactions During Ketoconazole Treatment,” Am J Med, 1983, 74(1B):80-5.

Lyman CA and Walsh TJ, “Systemically Administered Antifungal Agents. A Review of Their Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutic Applications,” Drugs, 1992, 44(1):9-35.

Small EJ, Halabi S, Dawson NA, et al, “Antiandrogen Withdrawal Alone or in Combination With Ketoconazole in Androgen-Independent Prostate Cancer Patients: A Phase III Trial (CALGB 9583),” J Clin Oncol, 2004, 22(6):1025-33.

Terrell CL, “Antifungal Agents. Part II. The Azoles,” Mayo Clin Proc, 1999, 74(1):78-100.

Trachtenberg J and Pont A, “Ketoconazole Therapy for Advanced Prostate Cancer,” Lancet, 1984, (8400):433-5.

Varhe A, Olkkola KT, and Neuvonen PJ, “Oral Triazolam Is Potentially Hazardous to Patients Receiving Systemic Antimycotics Ketoconazole or Itraconazole,” Clin Pharmacol Ther, 1994, 56(6 Pt 1):601-7.

Wynn RL, “Erythromycin and Ketoconazole (Nizoral®) Associated With Terfenadine (Seldane®)-Induced Ventricular Arrhythmias,” Gen Dent, 1993, 41(1):27-9.

International Brand Names

  • Akorazol (MX)
  • Anfuhex (ID)
  • Antanazol (SG)
  • Aquarius (GR)
  • Arcolan (BR)
  • Beatoconazole (SG)
  • Cetonil (AR)
  • Conazol (MX)
  • DaktaGOLD (AU)
  • Dexazol (ID)
  • Dezor Cream (MY, TH)
  • Dezor Shampoo (MY)
  • Dezoral (SG)
  • Diazon (HK, SG, TH)
  • Dysfungal (ID)
  • Fitonal (AR)
  • Formyco (ID)
  • Funet (ID)
  • Fungarest (ES)
  • Fungaway (TW)
  • Fungazol Tabs (HK, MY, TH)
  • Fungicide (TH)
  • Fungicide Tabs (IN)
  • Fungiderm-K (TH)
  • Funginox Tabs (TH)
  • Fungium (CN, PY)
  • Fungoral (GR, MX, NO, SE)
  • Fungores (PL)
  • Kenazol (TH)
  • Kenazole (AE, BH, CY, EG, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, QA, SA, SY, YE)
  • Kenzol (HK)
  • Ketazol (AE, BH, CY, EG, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, QA, SA, SY, YE, ZA)
  • Ketazol Shampoo (AE, BH, CY, EG, IL, IQ, IR, JO, KW, LB, LY, OM, QA, SA, SY, YE)
  • Ketoconazol (CR, DO, GT, HN, NI, PA, SV)
  • Ketoderm (FR)
  • Ketokonazol (PL)
  • Ketona (TW)
  • Ketopine (NZ)
  • Ketovid (PH)
  • Ketozol (PL)
  • Ketozole (IN)
  • Kexin (CL)
  • Kezon (TH)
  • Kezoral (SG)
  • Konaturil (MX)
  • Kozec (PH)
  • Lama (TH)
  • Larry (TH)
  • Lusanoc (ID)
  • Mizoron (TH)
  • Muzoral Cream (ID)
  • Mycofebrin (GR)
  • Nastil (MX)
  • Nazole (KP)
  • Nicozone (SG)
  • Niz Creme (ZA)
  • Niz Shampoo (ZA)
  • Nizoral (AE, AT, BE, BF, BG, BH, BJ, BR, CH, CI, CL, CY, CZ, DE, DK, EE, EG, ET, FI, GH, GM, GN, HK, HN, HU, ID, IE, IL, IQ, IR, IT, JO, KE, KP, KW, LB, LR, LU, LY, MA, ML, MR, MU, MW, MX, MY, NE, NG, OM, PH, PK, PL, PT, QA, RU, SA, SC, SD, SG, SL, SN, SY, TH, TN, TR, TZ, UG, UY, VE, YE, ZA, ZM, ZW)
  • Nizoral 2% Cream (AU, PH)
  • Nizoral Cream and Tablets (GB, IE, NL)
  • Nizoral Shampoo (AU, DE, PH)
  • Nizoral Tablets (AU, CO, EC, FR, NZ, PE, TW)
  • Oronazol (HR, PL)
  • Oxonazol (PE)
  • Panfungol (ES)
  • Pasalen (TH)
  • Picamic (ID)
  • Pristine (HK, MY)
  • Pristinex (HK)
  • Reduff (PH)
  • Sebizole (AU, MY)
  • Sporaxyl (TH)
  • Sporex (ID)
  • Sporium (CO)
  • Stada K Shampoo (HK)
  • Tiniazol (MX)
  • Tinuvin (TW)
  • Yucomy (MY)
  • Zoralin Tabs (ID)
  • Zumazol (ID)

Lexi-Comp.com

Last full review/revision September 2008

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