NIZORAL CREAM (KETOCONAZOLE)

Nizoral Cream Description

You can find fungi in soil, on food, and even on your skin as part of the microscopic inhabitants we try not to think about. For the most part, fungi just enjoy hanging out in warm, moist areas of your skin. However, when conditions are just right and the balance of the many microorganisms inhabiting our skin changes, the fungi can multiply and cause a skin, nail, or vaginal infection. Nizoral Cream or generic Ketoconazole is a prescription medicine your doctor may recommend for eliminating your infection and the bothersome symptoms that include a skin rash, pimples, and an itch at the site of infection. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Stop the Fungus’ Ability to Grow and Multiply

When applied as directed, Nizoral Cream will work to interfere with the fungal cell membranes by inhibiting a certain enzyme in order to prevent the production of a vital component called ergosterol that is needed to build them. These cell membranes are critical for the survival of fungi as they keep harmful substances from entering and stop the cell contents from leaking out. Without ergosterol, holes form in the cell membranes so fungi are unable to survive.

Conditions Treated by Nizoral Cream

Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), jock itch (tinea cruris), and ringworm (tinea corporis) are common fungal infections and are contagious. Shoes provide the perfect place for a fungal infection because of the moist environment they create. Your feet may start to itch or burn and you’ll notice a red rash with scaly patches between your toes and dried flakey skin on the soles of your feet. If left untreated, the infection could spread to your toenails. Jock itch is so-named because of the area of your body that can become infected with an itchy, red rash. Ringworm describes the shape of the lesions on your skin from this fungal infection and not due to an actual worm.

Before You are Given a Nizoral Cream Rx

Nizoral Cream is only for external use so there is little risk that it has been absorbed into your bloodstream, but you may want to inform your doctor regardless if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Tell your doctor about other medical conditions or allergies you have and any OTC or Rx meds you currently take or use, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements. Your doctor can then determine if Nizoral Cream is the best medicine for your fungal infection.

Nizoral Cream Precautions and Proper Use

Nizoral Cream is for external use only unless otherwise indicated by your doctor. Do not apply to the infected area directly from tube as this can cause a re-infection, use a finger or hand to apply and then wash hands thoroughly. You should not bandage or cover the treated area or this could cause an increased reaction. Nizoral Cream should only used by the person it was prescribed for and should be stored out of children’s reach.

Possible Side Effects of Nizoral Cream

• Mild irritation
• Itching after application
• Temporary stinging upon application