Nizoral
Nizoral is an antifungal medication containing active ketoconazole. It works by disrupting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes, which impairs cell growth and leads to clearance of the infection. While highly effective as a topical treatment (shampoo and cream), oral tablet forms carry a significant risk of hepatotoxicity and are reserved only for systemic infections when alternative treatments are unavailable.
Dosage by Body Weight
Topical Shampoo (2%): Apply to wet scalp, lather, leave on for 3 to 5 minutes, then rinse. Use twice weekly for 2 to 4 weeks. Topical Cream (2%): Apply to affected skin and surrounding areas once or twice daily for 2 to 6 weeks. Oral Tablets: Generally 200 mg to 400 mg once daily taken with food, strictly as prescribed and monitored by a doctor.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy in infants and very small children have not been established.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Avoid oral formulations due to high risk of liver toxicity. Safer pediatric antifungal alternatives are preferred.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Do not use
- Tracking Notes
- Topical applications should only be used under direct supervision of a pediatrician.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- Not routinely used
- Frequency
- Consult physician
- Tracking Notes
- For children over 2 years, oral dosing is occasionally calculated at 3.3 to 6.6 mg/kg/day, but only under strict specialist guidance.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- Not routinely used
- Frequency
- Consult physician
- Tracking Notes
- Pediatric use requires monitoring of liver enzymes if oral therapy is initiated. Topical options are highly preferred.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not recommended | Do not use | Safety and efficacy in infants and very small children have not been established. |
| 5-7 kg | Not recommended | Do not use | Avoid oral formulations due to high risk of liver toxicity. Safer pediatric antifungal alternatives are preferred. |
| 8-10 kg | Not recommended | Do not use | Topical applications should only be used under direct supervision of a pediatrician. |
| 11-15 kg | Not routinely used | Consult physician | For children over 2 years, oral dosing is occasionally calculated at 3.3 to 6.6 mg/kg/day, but only under strict specialist guidance. |
| 16-20 kg | Not routinely used | Consult physician | Pediatric use requires monitoring of liver enzymes if oral therapy is initiated. Topical options are highly preferred. |
Formulation
Purpose
Treatment of fungal and yeast infections of the skin and scalp, such as dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, tinea versicolor, athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm.
Generic Name
KetoconazoleScheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.