If you have an infection of the skin, some antifungal topical solutions may help treat your itchy skin. One of the most common product used and proven to be effective is ketoconazole cream.

 Ketoconazole Cream is a smooth soft topical solution conceived to treat many fungal infection of the skin such as skin psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, ringworm, thrush infection, jock itch rash, candida infection, and athlete’s foot. Pityriasis, also known as tinea versicolor, which is a skin condition causing light or dark skin patches around the neck, shoulders, arms, chest or even legs. It is a colorless crystalline compound with mildly basic antifungal properties. 

How Does Ketoconazole Cream Work?

 It prevents fungi from making ergosterol, which is the main “ingredient” responsible for the development of fungal cells. When esgosterol production is stopped,  tiny holes appear in cell membranes. It means that fungi can no longer spread out. As fungi are isolated and unable to multiply themselves, ketoconazole is going to kill the fungi and treat the infected area. 

Brand Names

Ketoconazole Creams are produced by various pharmaceutical companies. Extina Foam

(manufactured for Prestium Pharma, Inc.) treats seborrheic dermatitis in some patients.
However, effectiveness and safety have not been established with this particular formula in treating patients suffering from fungal infections.

Kuric Cream (JSJ Pharmaceuticals, now known as Innocutis due to a company name change) is another product used as a treatment of certain dermatological infections.  Available in 25 and 75 g tubes, there aren’t any reported drug interactions to Kuric.

Nizoral Cream, also known as Ketoconazole 2 cream, is the most popular topical antifungal solution recommended by many professionals. It is produced by Johnson & Johnson as well as other J&J’s contract manufacturers such as Janssen-Cilag. Like the other preparations, Nizoral Cream contains 2% Ketoconazole or 20 mg per 1 g of solution. In addition to its popularity, reports show that some have been using Nizoral Cream as a skin psoriasis treatment. See example about Nizoral Psoriasis Treatment.
 

Xolegel is a prescribed topical preparation for seborrheic dermatitis treatments in immunocompetent adults and children over 12 years old, produced by DPT Laboratories for Aqua Pharmaceuticals). As it is a gel, mucous membrane irritations may occur. Like Extina Foam, Xolegel’s effectiveness and safety have not been proven.

How To Use The Cream?

Always use as prescribed as your healthcare provider. First, wash your hands before (and after) using ketoconazole cream. Second, make sure the area of infection is clean and dry as well. Third, press the tube to apply a layer to the affected area. The amount shouldn’t be larger than the area of the skin being treated. Use it twice a day or as directed during two to four weeks. 

After using the solution, wait about 20 minutes in order for the skin to absorb it and before using any cosmetics in the treated area. Wait another three hours before using the cream again. Do not cover the affected area with bandages, except under your healthcare provider’s directions.

Storage

Store it in its original unbroken container at room temperature below 30 degrees Celsius and always out of reach of children. Avoid storing it in moisture conditions such as the bathroom because it may affect the solution. If you have any storage question regarding this cream, talk to your pharmacist, as he is aware of drug storage conditions.

Side effects

Less than 5% have reported side effects. Many people use it and don’t report any inconveniences. Nevertheless, Ketoconazole Cream most common side effects are urticarial (rashes), severe itching, burning, or irritation in the treated area. Sharp tingling or swelling may occur. In any case, you should notify immediately your healthcare provider and follow his/her recommendations.

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Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The material appearing on this page is for informational use only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.