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Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility while using ketoconazole - Brand names: Daktarin Gold, Daktarin Intensiv, Dandrazol, Nizoral

Ketoconazole and pregnancy

You can use ketoconazole cream or shampoo if you're pregnant.

Only tiny amounts are absorbed into your body so it will not affect your baby.

Ketoconazole and breastfeeding

It's OK to use ketoconazole cream or shampoo if you're breastfeeding. It's very unlikely that any will get into your breast milk.

If you're using ketoconazole cream for thrush (candida) of the breast, your baby will also need to be treated at the same time with their own medicine.

Take care that your baby does not touch any areas of your body where you've used ketoconazole. Wash your hands after you've used it and before picking up your baby. When using it on your breasts or nipples, wash it off before feeding your baby. It's important that your baby does not swallow any ketoconazole cream.

If you notice that your baby is not feeding as well as usual, or if you have any other concerns about your baby, talk to your midwife, health visitor or doctor as soon as possible.

Ketoconazole and fertility

There's no evidence that ketoconazole affects fertility in either men or women.

Non-urgent advice: Tell your doctor if you're:

  • trying to get pregnant
  • pregnant
  • breastfeeding

Page last reviewed: 16 August 2024
Next review due: 16 August 2027