ketoconazole 2%

Background
t is an imidazole and works by hindering the production of ergosterol required for the fungal cell membrane, thereby slowing growth. Ketoconazole was patented in 1977 by Belgian pharmaceutical company Janssen, and came into medical use in 1981.
Drug category
Imidazole antifungal class of medications
Pharmacology and mechanism of action of the drug
ketoconazole interacts with 14-α-sterol demethylase, a cytochrome P-450 enzyme necessary for the conversion of lanosterol to ergosterol. This results in inhibition of ergosterol synthesis and increased fungal cellular permeability due to reduced amounts of ergosterol present in the fungal cell membrane. This metabolic inhibition also results in accumulation of 14α-methyl-3,6-diol, a toxic metabolite. The increase in membrane fluidity is also thought to produce impairment of membrane-bound enzyme systems as components become less closely packed.

Before using ketoconazole, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other azole antifungals such as clotrimazole, econazole, or 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 should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Store this medicine at below 25 ° C, and away from light and moisture.
Keep this medicine out of the reach and sight of children.

• Wet your hair and scalp well with water.
• Apply the shampoo to the skin of the affected area and a wide margin surrounding this area.
• Work up a good lather and leave it in place for 5 minutes.
• Rinse your hair and scalp well with warm water, and dry your hair
• Use twice a week, for 2-4 weeks

Ketoconazole is used in the treatment or prevention of fungal infections including blastomycosis, candidiasis, coccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis, chromomycosis, and paracoccidioidomycosis.