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Home :: Drugs :: Ketoconazole
Ketoconazole - Learn about Ketoconazole Side Effects and Precautions
Ketoconazole Information
The pharmacology action of Ketoconazole is that it
impairs synthesis of ergosterol, allowing increased permeability in fungal cell membrane and leakage of cellular components.
Ketoconazole is used
in
treatment of susceptible systemic and cutaneous fungal infections
| Ketoconazole Class |
Antifungal |
| How Ketoconazole Supplied |
Nizoral Tablets 200 mg , Cream 2% in an aqueous vehicle , Shampoo 2% in an aqueous suspension |
| Brand Name : |
Apo-Ketoconazole , Novo-Ketoconazole |
Interaction and Contraindication of Ketoconazole
Interaction of Ketoconazole -
Halothane: Antacids: Increased gastric pH may inhibit ketoconazole absorption; separate administration by 2 hr or more.
Benzodiazepines (eg, midazolam): Plasma levels of benzodiazepines may be increased and prolonged.
Corticosteroids: Increased bioavailability and decreased clearance of corticosteroid.
Cyclosporine: Increased cyclosporine concentrations.
Didanosine, histamine H 2 -receptor antagonists (eg, cimetidine), proton pump inhibitors (eg, omeprazole): May decrease ketoconazole absorption.
Dofetilide: Elevated plasma levels of dofetilide may increase the risk of life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia.
Nisoldipine, protease inhibitors (eg, indinavir), tacrolimus, tolterodine: Plasma levels may be elevated by ketoconazole, increasing the risk of side effects.
Rifampin: Decreased serum levels of either drug; avoid concomitant use.
Theophylline: Decreased theophylline serum concentrations.
Warfarin: Increased anticoagulant effect.
Contraindication of Ketoconazole -
Fungal meningitis.
Side Effects o f Ketoconazole
Here are the list of some common side effects ofKetoconazole :
- Headache; dizziness; somnolence
- Pruritus; urticaria; severe irritation, stinging, and itching (topical)
- Nausea; vomiting; abdominal pain
- Oligospermia (with high doses); impotence; gynecomastia
- Hepatitis
Precaution and Warning while taking Ketoconazole
The precaution and warnings of Ketoconazole drug is as follows:
- Instruct patient that if a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if close to the time of next dose, do not double up. Notify health care provider if more than 1 dose is missed.
- Advise patient not to take medication with antacids. If antacids are required, take ketoconazole 2 hr before antacid.
- Emphasize importance of completing full course of therapy, even if signs and symptoms resolve. Advise patient that maintenance therapy may be required for chronic infections.
- Instruct patient to notify health care provider if severe irritation, itching, or stinging occurs after application.
- Instruct patient to report the following symptoms to the health care provider: fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, yellowing of skin, dark urine, pale stools, abdominal pain, fever, diarrhea.
- Advise patient that drug may cause drowsiness and to use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring mental alertness.
- Instruct patient not to take OTC medications, including antihistamine, without consulting health care provider.
How to store Ketoconazole
- Give oral drug with food to minimize GI upset. Administer 2 hr before antacid is given.
- Tablets can be crushed and mixed with small amount of food or fluid.
- In achlorhydria, dissolve tablet in 4 mL of 0.2 Normal Hydrochloride. Have patient use glass or plastic straw to avoid contact with teeth. Follow with glass of water.
- Apply topical medication once daily to cover affected and immediately surrounding area. Avoid contact with eyes.
- Store at room temperature in tightly closed container. Protect from light.
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