Ketoconazole
Ketoconazole is an over-the-counter drug for treating various skin issues, purchased with or without a prescription. Ketoconazole is a topical anti-fungal cream for conditions including ringworm, a fungal infection that can cause an itchy scalp. It can also come in foam and gel forms to treat seborrheic dermatitis or dandruff. Moreover, ketoconazole oral pills are effective against a wide variety of fungi.
As a shampoo, the most popular form, it may be purchased over the counter and used to treat dandruff-related scaling, flaking, and itching of the scalp. It is available in 1% and 2% concentrations, depending on the severity of the scalp condition. Redness and skin irritation are the most often reported adverse reactions to ketoconazole. Most fungal infections respond to ketoconazole within two to three weeks.
It also eliminates Malassezia yeast, which causes Malassezia folliculitis or scalp psoriasis. Both the topical cream and shampoo can be utilized simultaneously to alleviate symptoms. It is recommended to use the cream once or twice daily and the shampoo once a week to treat most infections and prevent dandruff from returning. However, inflammatory wounds and open wounds should not be treated with ketoconazole.
