Sons Ketoconazole 2% Anti-Dandruff Shampoo

To use Ketoconazole shampoo, wet your scalp and hair thoroughly using clean, warm water. Apply enough of the shampoo to your head so that when you lather it, it completely covers your scalp. Gently massage it in and leave it for between 3 and 5 minutes. This gives time for the active ingredient to be absorbed into your skin. Then rinse well with water until there is no shampoo left. Make sure to wash your hands after, to avoid getting the shampoo into your eyes and mouth (4).

How often should I use Ketoconazole shampoo?

For dandruff or seborrhoeic dermatitis, the usual recommendation is to use Ketoconazole shampoo twice each week for 2 to 4 weeks. After this time, if your symptoms have improved you may only need to use the shampoo once every 1 to 2 weeks to stop your symptoms returning.

Using Ketoconazole shampoo alongside steroid treatment

If your scalp is extremely red, inflamed or itchy, you may be recommended to use Ketoconazole shampoo alongside a topical steroid treatment. The steroid works to reduce inflammation and suppresses your immune system response. It is usually applied in a thin layer directly to the affected skin on your scalp (5).

Please note: If you are taking long-term topical steroids such as betamethasone or hydrocortisone, you should discuss how to use Sons Ketoconazole alongside your steroid treatment with your prescriber. Do not stop taking your steroids suddenly and without speaking to a medical professional first.

How should I store Ketoconazole shampoo?

• Do not store Ketoconazole shampoo above 25°C.

• Store in original packaging, with the lid tightly closed, out of the sight and reach of children.

• Do not store in direct sunlight.

• Do not use Ketoconazole shampoo after the expiry date which should be displayed on the label or carton. The expiry date is the last date of that month.

• Do not dispose with your household waste. Instead, speak to your pharmacist about the best way to dispose of Ketoconazole shampoo (4).

As with all medications, there are some side effects associated with Ketoconazole shampoo that you should be aware of, although not everyone gets them.

Uncommon side effects include:

• Application site reactions, such as itching, irritation, blistering, redness, dryness, tenderness or burning sensation.

• Inflamed hair follicles.

• Hair loss or changes in hair texture.

• Increased tear production.

• Skin rash/dry skin.

Rare side effects include:

• Change in taste.

• Eye irritation.

• Acne and/or dermatitis.

• Flaking skin.

If you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as swelling of your throat, tongue, mouth or face, difficulty breathing or an extensive rash, discontinue use immediately and seek medical help (4).

You should not use Ketoconazole shampoo if you are allergic to any of the ingredients, including benzyl alcohol and sodium laurilsulfate (4). Patients with a known history of "multiple contact dermatitis" or sensitivity to detergents should perform a small patch test or consult a pharmacist specifically about the Sodium Laurilsulfate (SLS) content, as it is a known irritant.