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Important: This site presents data from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). A report does not mean the drug caused the event. Full disclaimer.

KETOCONAZOLE: 5,571 Adverse Event Reports & Safety Profile

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5,571
Total FAERS Reports
132 (2.4%)
Deaths Reported
330
Hospitalizations
5,571
As Primary/Secondary Suspect
53
Life-Threatening
27
Disabilities
Approved Prior to Jan 1, 1982
FDA Approved
Bryant Ranch Prepack
Manufacturer
Discontinued
Status
Yes
Generic Available

Drug Class: Azole Antifungal [EPC] · Route: TOPICAL · Manufacturer: Bryant Ranch Prepack · FDA Application: 018533 · HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · FDA Label: Available

First Report: 19800404 · Latest Report: 20250819

What Are the Most Common KETOCONAZOLE Side Effects?

#1 Most Reported
Drug ineffective
1,326 reports (23.8%)
#2 Most Reported
Off label use
657 reports (11.8%)
#3 Most Reported
Pruritus
559 reports (10.0%)

All KETOCONAZOLE Side Effects by Frequency

Side Effect Reports % of Total Deaths Hosp.
Drug ineffective 1,326 23.8% 27 68
Off label use 657 11.8% 31 50
Pruritus 559 10.0% 1 1
Product use issue 428 7.7% 5 1
Product use in unapproved indication 421 7.6% 9 26
Alopecia 375 6.7% 1 5
Therapeutic response unexpected 317 5.7% 0 0
Psoriasis 312 5.6% 0 2
Rash 267 4.8% 0 4
Hair texture abnormal 255 4.6% 0 1
Skin exfoliation 225 4.0% 0 2
Erythema 216 3.9% 0 3
Condition aggravated 202 3.6% 13 18
Intentional product misuse 199 3.6% 0 8
Dry skin 185 3.3% 0 2
Drug ineffective for unapproved indication 183 3.3% 5 18
Inappropriate schedule of drug administration 150 2.7% 0 0
Skin irritation 138 2.5% 0 0
Therapeutic product effect incomplete 136 2.4% 1 6
Headache 111 2.0% 3 9

Who Reports KETOCONAZOLE Side Effects? Age & Gender Data

Gender: 54.0% female, 46.0% male. Average age: 54.0 years. Most reports from: US. View detailed demographics →

Is KETOCONAZOLE Getting Safer? Reports by Year

YearReportsDeathsHosp.
2000 1 0 0
2002 2 0 1
2004 1 0 0
2005 5 0 2
2007 2 1 1
2008 2 0 0
2009 9 0 6
2010 9 2 0
2011 23 0 3
2012 55 2 3
2013 81 1 5
2014 126 4 24
2015 116 3 11
2016 117 1 11
2017 114 0 6
2018 158 1 3
2019 143 4 12
2020 140 3 16
2021 158 11 22
2022 126 1 8
2023 137 5 2
2024 98 0 8
2025 29 1 2

View full timeline →

What Is KETOCONAZOLE Used For?

IndicationReports
Product used for unknown indication 1,593
Dandruff 660
Psoriasis 638
Pruritus 346
Alopecia 282
Seborrhoeic dermatitis 197
Fungal infection 173
Cushing's syndrome 118
Skin exfoliation 109
Skin disorder 100

KETOCONAZOLE vs Alternatives: Which Is Safer?

KETOCONAZOLE vs KETOPROFEN KETOCONAZOLE vs KETOPROFEN LYSINE KETOCONAZOLE vs KETOROLAC TROMETHAMINE KETOCONAZOLE vs KETOROLAC\KETOROLAC TROMETHAMINE KETOCONAZOLE vs KETOTIFEN KETOCONAZOLE vs KLONOPIN KETOCONAZOLE vs L-ASPARAGINASE KETOCONAZOLE vs LABETALOL KETOCONAZOLE vs LABETALOL\LABETALOL KETOCONAZOLE vs LACIDIPINE

Other Drugs in Same Class: Azole Antifungal [EPC]

Official FDA Label for KETOCONAZOLE

Official prescribing information from the FDA-approved drug label.

Drug Description

Ketoconazole foam, 2% contains 2% ketoconazole USP, an antifungal agent, in a thermolabile hydroethanolic foam for topical application. The chemical name for ketoconazole is piperazine, 1-acetyl-4-[4-[[2-(2,4-dichlorophenyl) -2-(1 H -imidazol-l-ylmethyl)-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl]methoxy]phenyl]-, cis - with the molecular formula C 26 H 28 Cl 2 N 4 O 4 and a molecular weight of 531.43. The following is the chemical structure: Ketoconazole foam, 2% contains 20 mg of ketoconazole per gram in a thermolabile hydroethanolic foam vehicle consisting of cetyl alcohol, citric acid, ethanol (denatured with tert -butyl alcohol and brucine sulfate) 58%, polysorbate 60, potassium citrate, propylene glycol, purified water, and stearyl alcohol pressurized with a hydrocarbon (propane/butane) propellant.

Ketoconazole Structural

Formula

FDA Approved Uses (Indications)

INDICATIONS AND USAGE Ketoconazole shampoo, 2%, is indicated for the treatment of tinea (pityriasis) versicolor caused by or presumed to be caused by Pityrosporum orbiculare (also known as Malassezia furfur or M. orbiculare ). Note: Tinea (pityriasis) versicolor may give rise to hyperpigmented or hypopigmented patches on the trunk which may extend to the neck, arms and upper thighs. Treatment of the infection may not immediately result in normalization of pigment to the affected sites. Normalization of pigment following successful therapy is variable and may take months, depending on individual skin type and incidental sun exposure. Although tinea versicolor is not contagious, it may recur because the organism that causes the disease is part of the normal skin flora.

Dosage & Administration

AND ADMINISTRATION Ketoconazole foam, 2% should be applied to the affected area(s) twice daily for four weeks. Hold the container upright, and dispense ketoconazole foam, 2% into the cap of the can or other cool surface in an amount sufficient to cover the affected area(s). Dispensing directly onto hands is not recommended, as the foam will begin to melt immediately upon contact with warm skin. Pick up small amounts of ketoconazole foam, 2% with the fingertips, and gently massage into the affected area(s) until the foam disappears. For hair-bearing areas, part the hair, so that ketoconazole foam, 2% may be applied directly to the skin (rather than on the hair). Avoid contact with the eyes and other mucous membranes. Ketoconazole foam, 2% is not for ophthalmic, oral or intravaginal use.

  • Ketoconazole foam, 2% should be applied to the affected area(s) twice daily for four weeks ( 2 ).
  • Ketoconazole foam, 2% is not for ophthalmic, oral, or intravaginal use ( 2 ).

Contraindications

CONTRAINDICATIONS Drug Interactions Coadministration of a number of CYP3A4 substrates such as dofetilide, quinidine, cisapride and pimozide is contraindicated with ketoconazole tablets. Coadministration with ketoconazole can cause elevated plasma concentrations of these drugs and may increase or prolong both therapeutic and adverse effects to such an extent that a potentially serious adverse reaction may occur. For example, increased plasma concentrations of some of these drugs can lead to QT prolongation and sometimes resulting in life-threatening ventricular tachyarrhythmias including occurrences of torsades de pointes, a potentially fatal arrhythmia. (See PRECAUTIONS : Drug Interactions .) Coadministration of ketoconazole tablets with lurasidone is contraindicated since it may result in an increase in lurasidone exposure and the potential for serious adverse reactions (see PRECAUTIONS : Drug Interactions ). Additionally, the following other drugs are contraindicated with ketoconazole tablets: methadone, disopyramide, dronedarone, ergot alkaloids such as dihydroergotamine, ergometrine, ergotamine, methylergometrine, irinotecan, lurasidone, oral midazolam, alprazolam, triazolam, felodipine, nisoldipine, ranolazine, tolvaptan, eplerenone, lovastatin, simvastatin and colchicine. (See PRECAUTIONS : Drug Interactions .)

Enhanced Sedation

Coadministration of ketoconazole tablets with oral midazolam, oral triazolam or alprazolam has resulted in elevated plasma concentrations of these drugs. This may potentiate and prolong hypnotic and sedative effects, especially with repeated dosing or chronic administration of these agents. Concomitant administration of ketoconazole tablets with oral triazolam, oral midazolam or alprazolam is contraindicated. (See PRECAUTIONS : Drug Interactions .)

Myopathy

Coadministration of CYP3A4 metabolized HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors such as simvastatin, and lovastatin is contraindicated with ketoconazole tablets. (See PRECAUTIONS : Drug Interactions . )

Ergotism

Concomitant administration of ergot alkaloids such as dihydroergotamine and ergotamine with ketoconazole tablets is contraindicated. (See PRECAUTIONS : Drug Interactions .)

Liver Disease

The use of ketoconazole tablets is contraindicated in patients with acute or chronic liver disease.

Hypersensitivity

Ketoconazole tablets USP, 200 mg is contraindicated in patients who have shown hypersensitivity to the drug.

Known Adverse Reactions

ADVERSE REACTIONS Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The following adverse reactions were reported in clinical trials: Immune System Disorders : anaphylactoid reaction Endocrine Disorders : gynecomastia Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders : alcohol intolerance, anorexia, hyperlipidemia, increased appetite Psychiatric Disorders : insomnia, nervousness Nervous System Disorders : headache, dizziness, paresthesia, somnolence Eye Disorders : photophobia Vascular Disorders : orthostatic hypotention Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders : epistaxis Gastrointestinal Disorders : vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, constipation, abdominal pain, abdominal pain upper, dry mouth, dysgeusia, dyspepsia, flatulence, tongue discoloration Hepatobiliary Disorders : hepatitis, jaundice, hepatic function abnormal Skin and Subcutaneous Tissues Disorders : erythema multiforme, rash, dermatitis, erythema urticaria, pruritus, alopecia, xeroderma Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders : myalgia Reproductive System and Breast Disorders : menstrual disorder General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions : asthenia, fatigue, hot flush, malaise, edema peripheral, pyrexia, chills Investigations : platelet count decreased. Post-Marketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of ketoconazole tablets. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. The following adverse reactions were reported during post-marketing experience: Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders : thrombocytopenia Immune System Disorders : allergic conditions including anaphylactic shock, anaphylactic reaction, angioneurotic edema Endocrine Disorders : adrenocortical insufficiency Nervous System Disorders : reversible intracranial pressure increased (e.g. papilloedema, fontanelle bulging in infants)

Hepatobiliary

Disorders : serious hepatotoxicity including hepatitis cholestatic, biopsy-confirmed hepatic necrosis, cirrhosis, hepatic failure including cases resulting in transplantation or death Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders : acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis, photosensitivity Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders : arthralgia Reproductive System and Breast Disorders : erectile dysfunction; with doses higher than the recommended therapeutic dose of 200 or 400mg daily, azoospermia. To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE EVENTS, contact Amici at 1-866-760-2646 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or http://www.fda.gov/medwatch for voluntary reporting of adverse reactions.

FDA Boxed Warning

BLACK BOX WARNING

WARNING Because ketoconazole tablets have been associated with serious adverse reactions (see WARNINGS section), ketoconazole tablets are not indicated for treatment of onychomycosis, cutaneous dermatophyte infections, or Candida infections. Ketoconazole tablets should be used only when other effective antifungal therapy is not available or tolerated and the potential benefits are considered to outweigh the potential risks.

Hepatotoxicity

Serious hepatotoxicity, including cases with a fatal outcome or requiring liver transplantation has occurred with the use of oral ketoconazole. Some patients had no obvious risk factors for liver disease. Patients receiving this drug should be informed by the physician of the risk and should be closely monitored. See WARNINGS section. QT Prolongation and Drug Interactions Leading to QT Prolongation Co-administration of the following drugs with ketoconazole is contraindicated: dofetilide, quinidine, pimozide, cisapride, methadone, disopyramide, dronedarone, ranolazine. Ketoconazole can cause elevated plasma concentrations of these drugs and may prolong QT intervals, sometimes resulting in life-threatening ventricular dysrhythmias such as torsades de pointes. See CONTRAINDICATIONS , WARNINGS , and PRECAUTIONS: DRUG INTERACTIONS sections.

Warnings

WARNINGS Because of the serious adverse reactions that have been reported in association with ketoconazole, including fatal hepatotoxicity, ketoconazole tablets are not indicated for treatment of onychomycosis, cutaneous dermatophyte infections, or Candida infections. Ketoconazole tablets should be used only when other effective antifungal therapy is not available or tolerated and the potential benefits are considered to outweigh the potential risks.

Hepatotoxicity

Serious hepatotoxicity, including cases with a fatal outcome or requiring liver transplantation, has occurred with the use of oral ketoconazole. Some patients had no obvious risk factors for liver disease. Serious hepatotoxicity was reported both by patients receiving high doses for short treatment durations and by patients receiving low doses for long durations. The hepatic injury has usually, but not always, been reversible upon discontinuation of ketoconazole tablets treatment. Cases of hepatitis have been reported in children. At baseline, obtain laboratory tests (such as SGGT, alkaline phosphatase, ALT, AST, total bilirubin (TBL), Prothrombin Time (PT), International Normalization Ratio (INR), and testing for viral hepatitides). Patients should be advised against alcohol consumption while on treatment. If possible, use of other potentially hepatotoxic drugs should be avoided in patients receiving ketoconazole tablets. Prompt recognition of liver injury is essential. During the course of treatment, serum ALT should be monitored weekly for the duration of treatment. If ALT values increase to a level above the upper limit of normal or 30 percent above baseline, or if the patient develops symptoms, ketoconazole treatment should be interrupted and a full set of liver tests should be obtained. Liver tests should be repeated to ensure normalization of values. Hepatotoxicity has been reported with restarting oral ketoconazole (rechallenge). If it is decided to restart oral ketoconazole, monitor the patient frequently to detect any recurring liver injury from the drug. QT Prolongation and Drug Interactions Leading to QT Prolongation Ketoconazole can prolong the QT interval. Coadministration of the following drugs with ketoconazole is contraindicated: dofetilide, quinidine, pimozide, lurasidone, cisapride, methadone, disopyramide, dronedarone, ranolazine. Ketoconazole can cause elevated plasma concentrations of these drugs which may prolong the QT interval, sometimes resulting in life-threatening ventricular dysrhythmias such as torsades de pointes.

Adrenal Insufficiency

Ketoconazole tablets decrease adrenal corticosteroid secretion at doses of 400 mg and higher. This effect is not shared with other azoles. The recommended dose of 200 mg to 400 mg daily should not be exceeded. Adrenal function should be monitored in patients with adrenal insufficiency or with borderline adrenal function and in patients under prolonged periods of stress (major surgery, intensive care, etc.).

Adverse Reactions

Associated with Unapproved Uses Ketoconazole has been used in high doses for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer and for Cushing's syndrome when other treatment options have failed. The safety and effectiveness of ketoconazole have not been established in these settings and the use of ketoconazole for these indications is not approved by FDA. In a clinical trial involving 350 patients with metastatic prostatic cancer, eleven deaths were reported within two weeks of starting treatment with high doses of ketoconazole tablets (1200 mg/day). It is not possible to ascertain from the information available whether death was related to ketoconazole therapy or adrenal insufficiency in these patients with serious underlying disease. Hepatoxicity, including fatal cases and cases requiring liver transplantation, have been reported in patients who received ketoconazole for treatment of onychomycosis, cutaneous dermatophyte infections, or Candida infections.

Hypersensitivity

Anaphylaxis has been reported after the first dose. Several cases of hypersensitivity reactions including urticaria have also been reported.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS General Ketoconazole tablets have been demonstrated to lower serum testosterone. Once therapy with ketoconazole tablets has been discontinued, serum testosterone levels return to baseline values. Testosterone levels are impaired with doses of 800 mg per day and abolished by 1600 mg per day. Clinical manifestations of decreased testosterone concentrations may include gynecomastia, impotence and oligospermia. Information for Patients Patients should be instructed to report any signs and symptoms which may suggest liver dysfunction so that appropriate biochemical testing can be done. Such signs and symptoms may include unusual fatigue, anorexia, nausea and/or vomiting, abdominal pain, jaundice, dark urine or pale stools (see WARNINGS section).

Drug Interactions

Ketoconazole is mainly metabolized through CYP3A4. Other substances that either share this metabolic pathway or modify CYP3A4 activity may influence the pharmacokinetics of ketoconazole. Similarly, ketoconazole may modify the pharmacokinetics of other substances that share this metabolic pathway. Ketoconazole is a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor and a P-glycoprotein inhibitor. When using concomitant medication, the corresponding label should be consulted for information on the route of metabolism and the possible need to adjust dosages. Interaction studies have only been performed in adults. The relevance of the results from these studies in pediatric patients is unknown. Drugs that may decrease ketoconazole plasma concentrations Drugs that reduce the gastric acidity (e.g. acid neutralizing medicines such as aluminum hydroxide, or acid secretion suppressors such as H 2 -receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors) impair the absorption of ketoconazole from ketoconazole tablets. These drugs should be used with caution when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets: Ketoconazole tablets should be administered with an acidic beverage (such as non-diet cola) upon co-treatment with drugs reducing gastric acidity. Acid neutralizing medicines (e.g. aluminum hydroxide) should be administered at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after the intake of ketoconazole tablets. Upon coadministration, the antifungal activity should be monitored and the ketoconazole tablets dose increased as deemed necessary. Coadministration of ketoconazole tablets with potent enzyme inducers of CYP3A4 may decrease the bioavailability of ketoconazole to such an extent that efficacy may be reduced. Examples include: Antibacterials: isoniazid, rifabutin (see also under ' Drugs that may have their plasma concentrations increased '), rifampicin. Anticonvulsants: carbamazepine (see also under ' Drugs that may have their plasma concentrations increased '), phenytoin. Antivirals: efavirenz, nevirapine. Therefore, administration of potent enzyme inducers of CYP3A4 with ketoconazole tablets is not recommended. The use of these drugs should be avoided from 2 weeks before and during treatment with ketoconazole tablets, unless the benefits outweigh the risk of potentially reduced ketoconazole efficacy. Upon coadministration, the antifungal activity should be monitored and the ketoconazole tablets dose increased as deemed necessary. Drugs that may increase ketoconazole plasma concentrations Potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 (e.g. antivirals such as ritonavir, ritonavir-boosted darunavir and ritonavir-boosted fosamprenavir) may increase the bioavailability of ketoconazole. These drugs should be used with caution when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets. Patients who must take ketoconazole tablets concomitantly with potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 should be monitored closely for signs or symptoms of increased or prolonged pharmacologic effects of ketoconazole, and the ketoconazole tablets dose should be decreased as deemed necessary. When appropriate, ketoconazole plasma concentrations should be measured. Drugs that may have their plasma concentrations increased by ketoconazole Ketoconazole can inhibit the metabolism of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4 and can inhibit the drug transport by P-glycoprotein, which may result in increased plasma concentrations of these drugs and/or their active metabolite(s) when they are administered with ketoconazole. These elevated plasma concentrations may increase or prolong both therapeutic and adverse effects of these drugs. CYP3A4-metabolized drugs known to prolong the QT interval may be contraindicated with ketoconazole tablets, since the combination may lead to ventricular tachyarrhythmias, including occurrences of torsade de pointes, a potentially fatal arrhythmia. Examples of drugs that may have their plasma concentrations increased by ketoconazole presented by drug class with advice regarding coadministration with ketoconazole tablets: Drug Class Contraindicated Not Recommended Use with Caution Comments Under no circumstances should the drug be coadministered with ketoconazole tablets, and up to one week after discontinuation of treatment with ketoconazole. The use of the drug should be avoided during and up to one week after discontinuation of treatment with ketoconazole tablets, unless the benefits outweigh the potentially increased risks of side effects. If coadministration cannot be avoided, clinical monitoring for signs or symptoms of increased or prolonged effects or side effects of the interacting drug is recommended, and its dosage should be reduced or interrupted as deemed necessary. When appropriate, plasma concentrations should be measured. The label of the coadministered drug should be consulted for information on dose adjustment and adverse effects. Careful monitoring is recommended when the drug is coadministered with ketoconazole tablets. Upon coadministration, patients should be monitored closely for signs or symptoms of increased or prolonged effects or side effects of the interacting drug, and its dosage should be reduced as deemed necessary. When appropriate, plasma concentrations should be measured. The label of the coadministered drug should be consulted for information on dose adjustment and adverse effects.

Alpha

Blockers tamsulosin Analgesics methadone alfentanil, buprenorphine IV and sublingual, fentanyl, oxycodone, sufentanil Methadone: The potential increase in plasma concentrations of methadone when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events including QT prolongation and torsade de pointes, or respiratory or CNS depression. [See CONTRAINDICATIONS .] Fentanyl: The potential increase in plasma concentrations of fentanyl when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of potentially fatal respiratory depression. Sufentanil: No human pharmacokinetic data of an interaction with ketoconazole are available. In vitro data suggest that sufentanil is metabolized by CYP3A4 and so potentially increased sufentanil plasma concentrations would be expected when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets. Antiarrhythmics disopyramide, dofetilide, dronedarone, quinidine digoxin Disopyramide, dofetilide, dronedarone, quinidine: The potential increase in plasma concentrations of these drugs when coadministered with ketoconazole may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events including QT prolongation. Digoxin: Rare cases of elevated plasma concentrations of digoxin have been reported. It is not clear whether this was due to the combination of therapy. It is, therefore, advisable to monitor digoxin concentrations in patients receiving ketoconazole. Antibacterials rifabutin telithromycin Rifabutin: see also under ' Drugs that may decrease ketoconazole plasma concentrations '. Telithromycin: A multiple-dose interaction study with ketoconazole showed that C max of telithromycin was increased by 51% and AUC by 95%. Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Drugs rivaroxaban cilostazol, coumarins, dabigatran Cilostazol: Concomitant administration of single doses of cilostazol 100 mg and ketoconazole 400 mg approximately doubled cilostazol concentrations and altered (increase/decrease) the concentrations of the active metabolites of cilostazol. Coumarins: Ketoconazole may enhance the anticoagulant effect of coumarin-like drugs, thus the anticoagulant effect should be carefully titrated and monitored. Dabigatran: In patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCL 50 mL/min to ≤ 80 mL/min), consider reducing the dose of dabigatran to 75 mg twice daily when it is coadministered with ketoconazole. Anticonvulsants carbamazepine Carbamazepine: In vivo studies have demonstrated an increase in plasma carbamazepine concentrations in subjects concomitantly receiving ketoconazole. In addition, the bioavailability of ketoconazole may be reduced by carbamazepine. Antidiabetics repaglinide, saxagliptin Antihelmintics and Antiprotozoals praziquantel Antimigraine Drugs ergot alkaloids, such as dihydroergotamine, ergometrine (ergonovine), ergotamine, methylergometrine (methylergonovine) eletriptan Ergot alkaloids: The potential increase in plasma concentrations of ergot alkaloids when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of ergotism, i.e., a risk for vasospasm potentially leading to cerebral ischemia and/or ischemia of the extremities. Eletriptan: Eletriptan should be used with caution with ketoconazole, and specifically, should not be used within at least 72 hours of treatment with ketoconazole. Antineoplastics irinotecan dasatinib, lapatinib, nilotinib bortezomib, busulphan, docetaxel, erlotinib, imatinib, ixabepilone, paclitaxel, trimetrexate, vinca alkaloids Irinotecan: The potential increase in plasma concentrations of irinotecan when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of potentially fatal adverse events. Docetaxel: In the presence of ketoconazole, the clearance of docetaxel in cancer patients was shown to decrease by 50%. Antipsychotics, Anxiolytics and Hypnotics lurasidone, alprazolam, oral midazolam, pimozide, triazolam aripiprazole, buspirone, haloperidol, midazolam IV, quetiapine, ramelteon, risperidone The increase in plasma concentrations of lurasidone when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of serious side effects (See CONTRAINDICATIONS ). Alprazolam, midazolam, triazolam: Coadministration of ketoconazole tablets with oral midazolam or triazolam, or alprazolam may cause several-fold increases in plasma concentrations of these drugs. This may potentiate and prolong hypnotic and sedative effects, especially with repeated dosing or chronic administration of these agents. Pimozide: The potential increase in plasma concentrations of pimozide when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events including QT prolongation and torsade de pointes. Aripiprazole: Coadministration of ketoconazole (200 mg/day for 14 days) with a 15 mg single dose of aripiprazole increased the AUC of aripiprazole and its active metabolite by 63% and 77%, respectively. The effect of a higher ketoconazole dose (400 mg/day) has not been studied. When ketoconazole is given concomitantly with aripiprazole, the aripiprazole dose should be reduced to one-half of the recommended dose. Buspirone: Ketoconazole is expected to inhibit buspirone metabolism and increase plasma concentrations of buspirone. If a patient has been titrated to a stable dosage on buspirone, a dose reduction of buspirone may be necessary to avoid adverse events attributable to buspirone or diminished anxiolytic activity. Antivirals indinavir, maraviroc, saquinavir Beta Blockers nadolol Calcium Channel Blockers felodipine, nisoldipine other dihydropyridines, verapamil Calcium channel blockers can have a negative inotropic effect which may be additive to those of ketoconazole. The potential increase in plasma concentrations of calcium channel blockers when co-administered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of edema and congestive heart failure. Dihydropyridines: Concomitant administration of ketoconazole tablets may cause several-fold increases in plasma concentrations of dihydropyridines.

Cardiovascular

Drugs, Miscellaneous ranolazine aliskiren, bosentan Ranolazine: The potential increase in plasma concentrations of ranolazine when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events including QT prolongation. Bosentan: Coadministration of bosentan 125 mg twice daily and ketoconazole, increased the plasma concentrations of bosentan by approximately 2-fold in normal volunteers. No dose adjustment of bosentan is necessary, but patients should be monitored for increased pharmacologic effects and adverse reactions of bosentan. Diuretics eplerenone The potential increase in plasma concentrations of eplerenone when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of hyperkalemia and hypotension.

Gastrointestinal

Drugs cisapride aprepitant Cisapride: Oral ketoconazole potently inhibits the metabolism of cisapride resulting in a mean eight-fold increase in AUC of cisapride, which can lead to serious cardiovascular events including QT prolongation. Immunosuppressants everolimus, rapamycin (also known as sirolimus), temsirolimus budesonide, ciclesonide, cyclosporine, dexamethasone, fluticasone, methylprednisolone, tacrolimus Rapamycin (sirolimus): Ketoconazole tablets 200 mg daily for 10 days increased the C max and AUC of a single 5 mg dose of sirolimus by 4.3-fold and 10.9-fold, respectively in 23 healthy subjects. Fluticasone: Coadministration of fluticasone propionate and ketoconazole is not recommended unless the potential benefit to the patient outweighs the risk of systemic corticosteroid side effects.

Lipid Regulating

Drugs lovastatin, simvastatin atorvastatin The potential increase in plasma concentrations of atorvastatin, lovastatin and simvastatin when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of skeletal muscle toxicity, including rhabdomyolysis.

Respiratory

Drugs salmeterol Urological Drugs fesoterodine, sildenafil, solifenacin, tadalafil, tolterodine, vardenafil Vardenafil: A single dose of 5 mg of vardenafil should not be exceeded when coadministered with ketoconazole. Other colchicine, in subjects with renal or hepatic impairment; tolvaptan colchicine alcohol, cinacalcet Colchicine: The potential increase in plasma concentrations of colchicine when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of potentially fatal adverse events. Tolvaptan: Ketoconazole 200 mg administered with tolvaptan increased tolvaptan exposure by 5-fold. Larger doses would be expected to produce larger increases in tolvaptan exposure. There is not adequate experience to define the dose adjustment that would be needed to allow safe use of tolvaptan with strong CYP3A inhibitors such as ketoconazole. Alcohol: Exceptional cases have been reported of a disulfiram-like reaction to alcohol, characterized by flushing, rash, peripheral edema, nausea and headache. All symptoms completely resolved within a few hours. Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Ketoconazole did not show any signs of mutagenic potential when evaluated using the dominant lethal mutation test or the Ames Salmonella microsomal activator assay. Ketoconazole was not carcinogenic in an 18-month, oral study in Swiss albino mice or a 24-month oral carcinogenicity study in Wistar rats at dose levels of 5, 20 and 80 mg/kg/day. The high dose in these studies was approximately 1× (mouse) or 2× (rat) the clinical dose in humans based on a mg/m 2 comparison.

Pregnancy

Teratogenic effects Ketoconazole has been shown to be teratogenic (syndactylia and oligodactylia) in the rat when given in the diet at 80 mg/kg/day (2 times the maximum recommended human dose, based on body surface area comparisons). However, these effects may be related to maternal toxicity, evidence of which also was seen at this and higher dose levels. There are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women. Ketoconazole tablets should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Nonteratogenic Effects

Ketoconazole has also been found to be embryotoxic in the rat when given in the diet at doses higher than 80 mg/kg during the first trimester of gestation. In addition, dystocia (difficult labor) was noted in rats administered oral ketoconazole during the third trimester of gestation. This occurred when ketoconazole was administered at doses higher than 10 mg/kg (about one fourth the maximum human dose, based on body surface area comparison).

Nursing Mothers

Ketoconazole has been shown to be excreted in the milk. Mothers who are under treatment with ketoconazole tablets should not breast feed.

Pediatric Use

Ketoconazole tablets have not been systematically studied in children of any age, and essentially no information is available on children under 2 years. Ketoconazole tablets should not be used in pediatric patients unless the potential benefit outweighs the risks.

Drug Interactions

Drug Interactions Ketoconazole is mainly metabolized through CYP3A4. Other substances that either share this metabolic pathway or modify CYP3A4 activity may influence the pharmacokinetics of ketoconazole. Similarly, ketoconazole may modify the pharmacokinetics of other substances that share this metabolic pathway. Ketoconazole is a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor and a P-glycoprotein inhibitor. When using concomitant medication, the corresponding label should be consulted for information on the route of metabolism and the possible need to adjust dosages. Interaction studies have only been performed in adults. The relevance of the results from these studies in pediatric patients is unknown. Drugs that may decrease ketoconazole plasma concentrations Drugs that reduce the gastric acidity (e.g. acid neutralizing medicines such as aluminum hydroxide, or acid secretion suppressors such as H 2 -receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors) impair the absorption of ketoconazole from ketoconazole tablets. These drugs should be used with caution when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets: Ketoconazole tablets should be administered with an acidic beverage (such as non-diet cola) upon co-treatment with drugs reducing gastric acidity. Acid neutralizing medicines (e.g. aluminum hydroxide) should be administered at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after the intake of ketoconazole tablets. Upon coadministration, the antifungal activity should be monitored and the ketoconazole tablets dose increased as deemed necessary. Coadministration of ketoconazole tablets with potent enzyme inducers of CYP3A4 may decrease the bioavailability of ketoconazole to such an extent that efficacy may be reduced. Examples include: Antibacterials: isoniazid, rifabutin (see also under ' Drugs that may have their plasma concentrations increased '), rifampicin. Anticonvulsants: carbamazepine (see also under ' Drugs that may have their plasma concentrations increased '), phenytoin. Antivirals: efavirenz, nevirapine. Therefore, administration of potent enzyme inducers of CYP3A4 with ketoconazole tablets is not recommended. The use of these drugs should be avoided from 2 weeks before and during treatment with ketoconazole tablets, unless the benefits outweigh the risk of potentially reduced ketoconazole efficacy. Upon coadministration, the antifungal activity should be monitored and the ketoconazole tablets dose increased as deemed necessary. Drugs that may increase ketoconazole plasma concentrations Potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 (e.g. antivirals such as ritonavir, ritonavir-boosted darunavir and ritonavir-boosted fosamprenavir) may increase the bioavailability of ketoconazole. These drugs should be used with caution when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets. Patients who must take ketoconazole tablets concomitantly with potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 should be monitored closely for signs or symptoms of increased or prolonged pharmacologic effects of ketoconazole, and the ketoconazole tablets dose should be decreased as deemed necessary. When appropriate, ketoconazole plasma concentrations should be measured. Drugs that may have their plasma concentrations increased by ketoconazole Ketoconazole can inhibit the metabolism of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4 and can inhibit the drug transport by P-glycoprotein, which may result in increased plasma concentrations of these drugs and/or their active metabolite(s) when they are administered with ketoconazole. These elevated plasma concentrations may increase or prolong both therapeutic and adverse effects of these drugs. CYP3A4-metabolized drugs known to prolong the QT interval may be contraindicated with ketoconazole tablets, since the combination may lead to ventricular tachyarrhythmias, including occurrences of torsade de pointes, a potentially fatal arrhythmia. Examples of drugs that may have their plasma concentrations increased by ketoconazole presented by drug class with advice regarding coadministration with ketoconazole tablets: Drug Class Contraindicated Not Recommended Use with Caution Comments Under no circumstances should the drug be coadministered with ketoconazole tablets, and up to one week after discontinuation of treatment with ketoconazole. The use of the drug should be avoided during and up to one week after discontinuation of treatment with ketoconazole tablets, unless the benefits outweigh the potentially increased risks of side effects. If coadministration cannot be avoided, clinical monitoring for signs or symptoms of increased or prolonged effects or side effects of the interacting drug is recommended, and its dosage should be reduced or interrupted as deemed necessary. When appropriate, plasma concentrations should be measured. The label of the coadministered drug should be consulted for information on dose adjustment and adverse effects. Careful monitoring is recommended when the drug is coadministered with ketoconazole tablets. Upon coadministration, patients should be monitored closely for signs or symptoms of increased or prolonged effects or side effects of the interacting drug, and its dosage should be reduced as deemed necessary. When appropriate, plasma concentrations should be measured. The label of the coadministered drug should be consulted for information on dose adjustment and adverse effects.

Alpha

Blockers tamsulosin Analgesics methadone alfentanil, buprenorphine IV and sublingual, fentanyl, oxycodone, sufentanil Methadone: The potential increase in plasma concentrations of methadone when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events including QT prolongation and torsade de pointes, or respiratory or CNS depression. [See CONTRAINDICATIONS .] Fentanyl: The potential increase in plasma concentrations of fentanyl when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of potentially fatal respiratory depression. Sufentanil: No human pharmacokinetic data of an interaction with ketoconazole are available. In vitro data suggest that sufentanil is metabolized by CYP3A4 and so potentially increased sufentanil plasma concentrations would be expected when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets. Antiarrhythmics disopyramide, dofetilide, dronedarone, quinidine digoxin Disopyramide, dofetilide, dronedarone, quinidine: The potential increase in plasma concentrations of these drugs when coadministered with ketoconazole may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events including QT prolongation. Digoxin: Rare cases of elevated plasma concentrations of digoxin have been reported. It is not clear whether this was due to the combination of therapy. It is, therefore, advisable to monitor digoxin concentrations in patients receiving ketoconazole. Antibacterials rifabutin telithromycin Rifabutin: see also under ' Drugs that may decrease ketoconazole plasma concentrations '. Telithromycin: A multiple-dose interaction study with ketoconazole showed that C max of telithromycin was increased by 51% and AUC by 95%. Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Drugs rivaroxaban cilostazol, coumarins, dabigatran Cilostazol: Concomitant administration of single doses of cilostazol 100 mg and ketoconazole 400 mg approximately doubled cilostazol concentrations and altered (increase/decrease) the concentrations of the active metabolites of cilostazol. Coumarins: Ketoconazole may enhance the anticoagulant effect of coumarin-like drugs, thus the anticoagulant effect should be carefully titrated and monitored. Dabigatran: In patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCL 50 mL/min to ≤ 80 mL/min), consider reducing the dose of dabigatran to 75 mg twice daily when it is coadministered with ketoconazole. Anticonvulsants carbamazepine Carbamazepine: In vivo studies have demonstrated an increase in plasma carbamazepine concentrations in subjects concomitantly receiving ketoconazole. In addition, the bioavailability of ketoconazole may be reduced by carbamazepine. Antidiabetics repaglinide, saxagliptin Antihelmintics and Antiprotozoals praziquantel Antimigraine Drugs ergot alkaloids, such as dihydroergotamine, ergometrine (ergonovine), ergotamine, methylergometrine (methylergonovine) eletriptan Ergot alkaloids: The potential increase in plasma concentrations of ergot alkaloids when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of ergotism, i.e., a risk for vasospasm potentially leading to cerebral ischemia and/or ischemia of the extremities. Eletriptan: Eletriptan should be used with caution with ketoconazole, and specifically, should not be used within at least 72 hours of treatment with ketoconazole. Antineoplastics irinotecan dasatinib, lapatinib, nilotinib bortezomib, busulphan, docetaxel, erlotinib, imatinib, ixabepilone, paclitaxel, trimetrexate, vinca alkaloids Irinotecan: The potential increase in plasma concentrations of irinotecan when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of potentially fatal adverse events. Docetaxel: In the presence of ketoconazole, the clearance of docetaxel in cancer patients was shown to decrease by 50%. Antipsychotics, Anxiolytics and Hypnotics lurasidone, alprazolam, oral midazolam, pimozide, triazolam aripiprazole, buspirone, haloperidol, midazolam IV, quetiapine, ramelteon, risperidone The increase in plasma concentrations of lurasidone when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of serious side effects (See CONTRAINDICATIONS ). Alprazolam, midazolam, triazolam: Coadministration of ketoconazole tablets with oral midazolam or triazolam, or alprazolam may cause several-fold increases in plasma concentrations of these drugs. This may potentiate and prolong hypnotic and sedative effects, especially with repeated dosing or chronic administration of these agents. Pimozide: The potential increase in plasma concentrations of pimozide when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events including QT prolongation and torsade de pointes. Aripiprazole: Coadministration of ketoconazole (200 mg/day for 14 days) with a 15 mg single dose of aripiprazole increased the AUC of aripiprazole and its active metabolite by 63% and 77%, respectively. The effect of a higher ketoconazole dose (400 mg/day) has not been studied. When ketoconazole is given concomitantly with aripiprazole, the aripiprazole dose should be reduced to one-half of the recommended dose. Buspirone: Ketoconazole is expected to inhibit buspirone metabolism and increase plasma concentrations of buspirone. If a patient has been titrated to a stable dosage on buspirone, a dose reduction of buspirone may be necessary to avoid adverse events attributable to buspirone or diminished anxiolytic activity. Antivirals indinavir, maraviroc, saquinavir Beta Blockers nadolol Calcium Channel Blockers felodipine, nisoldipine other dihydropyridines, verapamil Calcium channel blockers can have a negative inotropic effect which may be additive to those of ketoconazole. The potential increase in plasma concentrations of calcium channel blockers when co-administered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of edema and congestive heart failure. Dihydropyridines: Concomitant administration of ketoconazole tablets may cause several-fold increases in plasma concentrations of dihydropyridines.

Cardiovascular

Drugs, Miscellaneous ranolazine aliskiren, bosentan Ranolazine: The potential increase in plasma concentrations of ranolazine when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events including QT prolongation. Bosentan: Coadministration of bosentan 125 mg twice daily and ketoconazole, increased the plasma concentrations of bosentan by approximately 2-fold in normal volunteers. No dose adjustment of bosentan is necessary, but patients should be monitored for increased pharmacologic effects and adverse reactions of bosentan. Diuretics eplerenone The potential increase in plasma concentrations of eplerenone when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of hyperkalemia and hypotension.

Gastrointestinal

Drugs cisapride aprepitant Cisapride: Oral ketoconazole potently inhibits the metabolism of cisapride resulting in a mean eight-fold increase in AUC of cisapride, which can lead to serious cardiovascular events including QT prolongation. Immunosuppressants everolimus, rapamycin (also known as sirolimus), temsirolimus budesonide, ciclesonide, cyclosporine, dexamethasone, fluticasone, methylprednisolone, tacrolimus Rapamycin (sirolimus): Ketoconazole tablets 200 mg daily for 10 days increased the C max and AUC of a single 5 mg dose of sirolimus by 4.3-fold and 10.9-fold, respectively in 23 healthy subjects. Fluticasone: Coadministration of fluticasone propionate and ketoconazole is not recommended unless the potential benefit to the patient outweighs the risk of systemic corticosteroid side effects.

Lipid Regulating

Drugs lovastatin, simvastatin atorvastatin The potential increase in plasma concentrations of atorvastatin, lovastatin and simvastatin when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of skeletal muscle toxicity, including rhabdomyolysis.

Respiratory

Drugs salmeterol Urological Drugs fesoterodine, sildenafil, solifenacin, tadalafil, tolterodine, vardenafil Vardenafil: A single dose of 5 mg of vardenafil should not be exceeded when coadministered with ketoconazole. Other colchicine, in subjects with renal or hepatic impairment; tolvaptan colchicine alcohol, cinacalcet Colchicine: The potential increase in plasma concentrations of colchicine when coadministered with ketoconazole tablets may increase the risk of potentially fatal adverse events. Tolvaptan: Ketoconazole 200 mg administered with tolvaptan increased tolvaptan exposure by 5-fold. Larger doses would be expected to produce larger increases in tolvaptan exposure. There is not adequate experience to define the dose adjustment that would be needed to allow safe use of tolvaptan with strong CYP3A inhibitors such as ketoconazole. Alcohol: Exceptional cases have been reported of a disulfiram-like reaction to alcohol, characterized by flushing, rash, peripheral edema, nausea and headache. All symptoms completely resolved within a few hours.

Active Ingredient

Active ingredient Purpose Ketoconazole 1% w/w Anti-dandruff shampoo

Inactive Ingredients

Inactive ingredients Aqua, Aloe Vera Leaf, Sodium Cocoyl Isethion-ate, Sodium LauroyI Methyl Isethionate, Co- camidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Oatmeal, Pan-thenol, Chamomile, Green Tea Leaf, Calendula Officinalis Flower, Glycerin, Squalane, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree)

Leaf

Oil, Azadirachta Indica Flower, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, So- dium Benzoate, Citric Acid