Ketoconazole

Ketoconazole: an antifungal agent for the treatment of mycoses and other diseases

Ketoconazole is an antifungal agent belonging to the group of imidazole and triazole derivatives. It is used for the treatment of various mycoses, such as skin, hair and nail mycoses caused by dermatophytes and/or yeasts, gastrointestinal mycoses, ocular mycoses, systemic mycoses, cutaneous leishmaniasis, seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, fungal sepsis, vaginal candidiasis, and also for the prevention mycoses in patients with immunodeficiency.

Ketoconazole is manufactured by several Canadian companies, including New Pharm Inc., Vector and Biotek MFPDC. The dosage form of ketoconazole is tablets with a dosage of 200 mg. The active substance is ketoconazole.

Like any other medication, ketoconazole has contraindications and side effects. It should not be used in case of hypersensitivity, acute liver diseases, pregnancy and lactation. In addition, its use should be limited in case of reduced function of the adrenal cortex and pituitary gland, as well as in severe renal and liver failure.

Side effects of ketoconazole may include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, hair loss, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, toxic hepatitis, transient increase in the level of transaminases in the blood, photophobia, gynecomastia, decreased libido, oligospermia, allergic reactions.

Ketoconazole may interact with other drugs such as terfenadine, astemizole, alcohol, amphotericin B, antacids, anticholinergics, H2 blockers, rifampicin, isoniazid, corticotropin, diphenin, and low-hormone oral contraceptives.

In general, ketoconazole is an effective antifungal agent for the treatment of mycoses and other diseases. However, before you start using it, you should consult your doctor to make sure it is suitable for your specific case.