WARNING

Ketoconazole is an antifungal medication used to treat various fungal infections. While it can be effective, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and side effects associated with its use. Here are some of the risks of taking Ketoconazole:

• Liver damage: Ketoconazole can cause liver toxicity, ranging from mild liver enzyme elevation to severe liver damage. Regular liver function tests may be required during treatment to monitor for any signs of liver problems.
• Hormonal imbalances: Ketoconazole can interfere with the production of certain hormones, such as cortisol and testosterone. Prolonged use or high doses of Ketoconazole may lead to adrenal insufficiency, decreased testosterone levels, and related side effects like decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and menstrual irregularities.
• Drug interactions: Ketoconazole can interact with various medications, including certain anticoagulants, statins, antiarrhythmics, and others. These interactions can alter the effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects of both Ketoconazole and the other medications.
• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to Ketoconazole, experiencing symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any allergic reactions, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
• Gastrointestinal disturbances: Common side effects of Ketoconazole include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. These symptoms are usually temporary and resolve once the treatment is completed or adjusted.
• Skin reactions: Ketoconazole can rarely cause skin reactions like itching, rash, and photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight). If you experience any severe skin reactions, discontinue the medication and consult a healthcare professional.

It is crucial to discuss the risks and benefits of Ketoconazole with your healthcare provider before starting the treatment. They can assess your individual situation and guide you on the appropriate use, monitoring, and management of potential risks.

Why is this medication prescribed?

When other drugs are unavailable or cannot be tolerated, ketoconazole is used to treat fungal infections. Ketoconazole shouldn’t be used to treat fungus-caused fungal nail infections or fungal meningitis, an infection of the membranes encasing the brain and spinal cord. The antifungal drug ketoconazole belongs to the imidazole class of drugs. Infection-causing fungi’s growth is slowed down as a result of it.

It’s important to note that the use of Ketoconazole should be based on a healthcare professional’s assessment and prescription. They will consider the specific fungal infection, its severity, and individual factors before determining the appropriate treatment course.

How should this medicine be used?

The oral tablet form of ketoconazole is available. It is typically taken once day. Take your daily dose of ketoconazole at roughly the same time. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any instructions on your prescription label that you do not understand, and carefully follow their instructions. Exactly as prescribed, take ketoconazole. Never take it in quantities or frequencies other than those recommended by your doctor.

If nothing changes with your condition, your doctor might increase your dose.

To completely heal your infection, you might need to take ketoconazole for six months or more. No matter how much better you feel, keep taking ketoconazole until your doctor instructs you to stop. Never discontinue taking ketoconazole without consulting your doctor first. Your infection can quickly return if you stop taking ketoconazole too soon.

Other uses for this medicine

Advanced prostate cancer (cancer of the male reproductive system) and Cushing syndrome (a disorder that develops when the body produces too much corticosteroid hormone) are occasionally treated with high doses of ketoconazole. For these purposes, the safety or efficacy of ketoconazole has not been established. Ask your doctor if you can use ketoconazole to treat your disease.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details if you think this drug may be recommended for other conditions.

What special precautions should I follow?

When taking Ketoconazole, it is important to observe certain special precautions. Here are some key precautions to consider:

• Liver function monitoring: Ketoconazole has the potential to cause liver damage. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor liver function regularly during treatment. Your healthcare provider may order liver function tests before starting Ketoconazole and periodically throughout the course of treatment.
• Hormonal effects: Ketoconazole can interfere with the production of certain hormones, such as cortisol and testosterone. Prolonged use or high doses of Ketoconazole may lead to hormonal imbalances. If you experience symptoms like fatigue, weakness, changes in menstruation, decreased libido, or erectile dysfunction, notify your healthcare provider. They may need to adjust the dosage or consider alternative treatment options.
• Allergic reactions: If you have a known allergy to Ketoconazole or any related antifungal medications, you should avoid using it. Allergic reactions to Ketoconazole can range from mild to severe. If you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
• Pre-existing conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions you have, especially liver disease or impaired liver function. Ketoconazole may not be suitable for individuals with severe liver disease.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Ketoconazole is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless the benefits outweigh the risks. Consult your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before using Ketoconazole.

It is crucial to discuss your medical history, current medications, and any potential risks or precautions with your healthcare provider before starting Ketoconazole treatment. They will provide personalized guidance and ensure your safety throughout the course of treatment.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with the use of Ketoconazole. However, it is generally recommended to take the medication with food to enhance its absorption and minimize the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea or upset stomach.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you have any specific dietary concerns or restrictions due to underlying health conditions or medications you are taking alongside Ketoconazole, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian. They can provide personalized advice and guidance based on your individual needs.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Ketoconazole can potentially cause several side effects. While not everyone experiences these side effects, it’s essential to be aware of them. Common side effects of ketoconazole include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Rash or itching
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Changes in taste or loss of taste sensation
• Fatigue or weakness

Less common, but more severe side effects may occur. If you experience any of the following, it is important to seek medical attention immediately:

• Allergic reactions: These may include hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Liver problems: Ketoconazole has been associated with liver damage in rare cases. Symptoms may include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools, abdominal pain, or persistent fatigue. If you experience any signs of liver problems, discontinue the medication and seek medical help promptly.
• Adrenal insufficiency: Ketoconazole can inhibit the production of certain hormones in the adrenal glands. Symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, and low blood sugar levels. If you experience these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional.
• Drug interactions: Ketoconazole may interact with other medications, including certain anticoagulants, antacids, statins, and immunosuppressants. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to minimize the risk of potential interactions.

These lists of side effects are not exhaustive, and different individuals may have different reactions to the medication. If you have any concerns about potential side effects or experience any unusual symptoms while taking ketoconazole, consult your healthcare provider for appropriate guidance.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

• Storage: It’s important to store ketoconazole as directed on the packaging or as advised by your healthcare provider. Typically, it should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and direct light. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Do not dispose of ketoconazole in the household trash or flush it down the toilet unless specifically instructed to do so. Properly dispose of unused or expired medications through take-back programs, if available in your area. If there are no take-back programs, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal authorities for guidance on how to dispose of the medication safely.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or suspected overdose, immediately contact your local poison control center at the emergency hotline number in your country or seek medical assistance. Be prepared to provide information about the medication, dosage, and any symptoms you or the affected person may be experiencing.

What other information should I know?

• Follow the prescribed dosage and complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or medications you are taking before starting ketoconazole to avoid potential interactions or complications.
• If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of ketoconazole with your healthcare provider before using the medication.
• Avoid consuming alcohol while taking ketoconazole, as it may increase the risk of liver problems.
• If you experience any new or worsening symptoms or have concerns about the medication, consult your healthcare provider promptly.

Remember, this information is intended as a general guideline, and it’s important to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for specific instructions and advice regarding the use, storage, and disposal of ketoconazole based on your individual circumstances.