Description

Nizoral shampoo (ketoconazole) is an antifungal treatment used to eliminate tinea versicolor or the itching, flaking and scaling associated with dandruff. The product is available in two strengths; a 1% solution and a 2% solution. It is not suitable for use while pregnant or breastfeeding unless explicitly instructed by a doctor. A Safer Solution for the Scalp While antifungal lotions, creams, powders and sprays may technically work on the scalp, these products are typically less-than-ideal for use there, especially if hair is present. Oral tablets can also clear up fungal infections of the scalp, but carry risk of potentially serious side effects, and often take considerably longer to produce results than topical applications. Nizoral shampoo is ideal for use on the scalp, has minimal risk of side effects, and is also often less costly and easier to acquire than other treatments—shampoos, unlike tablets and creams, are widely available without a prescription. Topical antifungal treatments are generally preferred over oral tablets due to the reduced risk of side effects. This is because very little, if any, of the topical solution is absorbed into the bloodstream. However, absorption can happen—as well as irritation—if the shampoo gets in the eyes, mouth or other mucous membranes. Likewise, the product should not be used on open wounds. For best results, as with any infection, the condition should be diagnosed by a doctor before initiating treatment. Nizoral shampoo should not be used to treat viral or bacterial infections. Directions for Use Use of Nizoral Shampoo depends on the strength of the product as well as the area on which it is being used; the shampoo is effective at treating tinea versicolor on the trunk or other parts of the body. If using the 2% shampoo, one treatment is often all that's needed. On the scalp, lather into damp hair as with any other shampoo. Let stand for 5 minutes and rinse off. On the skin, the 2% shampoo should be lathered onto the affected area and a short ways onto surrounding healthy skin. Let stand for 5 minutes and rinse off. Treatment may be repeated on both scalp and skin in the future if the condition returns. The 1% Nizoral shampoo requires more treatments than the 2% version, but is less likely to produce side effects and is safer for more frequent use. On the scalp, the 1% shampoo is used similarly; lather and let stand for 5 minutes. Repeat once per day for 3 to 5 days. Individuals who experience frequent fungal scalp infections may want to use Nizoral 1% shampoo once per month as a preventive treatment. On the skin, treatment is also similar; lather onto the affected area and let stand for 5 minutes before rinsing off. Repeat once daily for 3 to 5 days; in some cases treatment may need to be extended a few days longer. If improvements are not noticed within a few days of starting treatment, alternative options should be considered. Precautions & Adverse Reactions As mentioned above, side effects from topical antifungal treatments are rare. Those side effects that are experience from Nizoral shampoo tend to be mild and only occur at the application site, including: Mild itching Dry skin or scalp Mild stinging, burning or other irritation Rarely some individuals experience more severe reactions. Discontinue use immediately if experiencing: Severe itching or burning Hair loss Pain Redness Oozing or blistering skin Nizoral shampoo should not be used while pregnant or breast feeding unless explicitly instructed to do so by a doctor.