About Nizral Shampoo
Nizral Shampoo contains Ketoconazole 2%. Ketoconazole shampoo is an antifungal medicated shampoo. It treats dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp, which are linked to a yeast that lives on the skin. It can also be used on the body for a yeast-related skin condition called pityriasis versicolor.
Uses of Nizral Shampoo
- Dandruff
- Seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp (flaky, itchy, red scalp)
- Pityriasis versicolor (patches of lighter or darker skin)
Benefits
In dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis
It reduces the yeast on the scalp, which eases flaking, itching and redness. Regular use as advised can help keep symptoms under control.
Side effects
Side effects are usually mild. In some people with grey or chemically treated hair, the hair colour may change.
Common
- Itching or burning of the scalp
- Dry or oily hair
- Changes in hair texture
- Scalp irritation
Get medical help if you notice
- Rash, swelling, blistering or severe irritation (possible allergy) — stop using it and contact your doctor
- Swelling of the face or lips, difficulty breathing — seek emergency care
How to use
Use it as your doctor or the label advises. Wet your hair and scalp, apply the shampoo and work it into a lather. Leave it on for 3 to 5 minutes, then rinse it off well. For skin patches on the body, apply to the affected skin, leave for 3 to 5 minutes and rinse. Avoid getting it in your eyes; if it does, rinse with plenty of water.
How it works
It blocks the yeast from making ergosterol, a key part of its cell wall. This stops the yeast growing and reduces the flaking and inflammation it causes.
Safety advice
Alcohol Safe
No interaction known.
Pregnancy Caution
Almost none is absorbed into the body from the shampoo, and labelling notes no known risk in pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.
Breastfeeding Caution
Almost none is absorbed into the body, and labelling notes no known risk while breastfeeding. Ask your doctor if unsure.
Driving Safe
It is not expected to affect your ability to drive.
Kidney Safe
Almost none is absorbed through the skin, so no problems are expected.
Liver Safe
Almost none is absorbed from the shampoo, so no problems are expected.
If you miss a dose
If you miss a wash, use it at your next hair wash and then continue your usual schedule.
Quick tips
- Leave the lather on for 3 to 5 minutes before rinsing.
- Keep it out of your eyes.
- Use it only as often as advised; once symptoms are controlled, it may be used less often.
- If you were using a steroid lotion on your scalp, ask your doctor how to reduce it gradually.
Substitutes
Same salts in the same strength from other makers. Only switch brands on your doctor's or pharmacist's advice; our pharmacist checks every order against the prescription.
Fact box
- Chemical class
- Imidazole
- Therapeutic class
- Dermatological
- Action class
- Azole antifungal
- Habit forming
- No
- Prescription
- Required
Interactions with other medicines
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin and herbal product you take.
| Medicine | What can happen |
|---|---|
| Steroid scalp lotions or creams used for a long time | Your doctor may advise reducing them slowly when starting this shampoo |
| Other medicated shampoos or scalp treatments | May increase scalp irritation; ask your pharmacist before combining |
This page is general information to help you understand your medicine. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Do not start, stop or change a medicine on your own.
Written by the Asthra Health Care team from the approved prescribing information (Ketoconazole 2% shampoo prescribing information (CDSCO-approved labelling); Ketoconazole 2% shampoo Summary of Product Characteristics (EMC)). Pharmacist review pending.