Ketoconazole (oral)

About ketoconazole (oral)

Ketoconazole (oral) is used to treat a variety of fungal infections which have not cleared up with other treatments, particularly those of the mouth, hair, skin and throat. It works by killing the fungus or yeast causing the infection.

Before taking ketoconazole (oral)

Before taking ketoconazole (oral) make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have, or have had, liver problems.
• If you have Addison's disease (a disorder of the adrenal gland).
• If you are under stress.
• If you have porphyria (a rare blood disorder).
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take ketoconazole (oral)

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Swallow your dose with a small glass of water at a meal time.
• Try to take ketoconazole (oral) at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you forget to take a day's dose, do not take two doses on the next day to make up. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored. You will need to have blood tests if you are taking ketoconazole (oral) for more than two weeks.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take. This is important because ketoconazole (oral) can affect the way many other medicines work.
• Avoid drinking alcohol while you are taking ketoconazole (oral). Together they may cause headaches, skin rashes and sickness.
• Do not take indigestion remedies at the same time as ketoconazole (oral). Indigestion remedies should be taken at least one hour before or two hours after the ketoconazole (oral).
• Complete the prescribed course otherwise your infection may come back.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.

Can ketoconazole (oral) cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store ketoconazole (oral)

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines