Like all medicines, ketoconazole cream and shampoo can cause side effects, but not everyone gets them.
Most side effects are minor. You can try using a smaller amount of the cream or shampoo to see if that helps.
Common side effects of ketoconazole
You're unlikely to have side effects with ketoconazole shampoo if you use the right amount.
With ketoconazole cream, common side effects happen in more than 1 in 100 people. They usually affect your skin where you've applied the cream.
You may have itching, a burning feeling or redness on your skin, although redness may be less obvious on brown or black skin.
If any of these happen, try using less cream. Apply it carefully, just to the area you need to treat. Rub it in gently. Try wearing loose clothing to reduce sweat.
If the itching, redness or burning feeling is no better after a few days, or if it gets worse at any time, stop using the cream and speak to a pharmacist or doctor.
Also speak to them if a side effect spreads beyond the area of skin you've treated.
Serious allergic reaction
Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are rare but can happen with ketoconazole cream or shampoo.
Immediate action required: Call 999 now if:
- your lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly become swollen
- you're breathing very fast or struggling to breathe (you may become very wheezy or feel like you're choking or gasping for air)
- your throat feels tight or you're struggling to swallow
- your skin, tongue or lips turn blue, grey or pale (if you have black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet)
- you suddenly become very confused, drowsy or dizzy
- someone faints and cannot be woken up
- a child is limp, floppy or not responding like they normally do (their head may fall to the side, backwards or forwards, or they may find it difficult to lift their head or focus on your face)
You or the person who's unwell may also have a rash that's swollen, raised, itchy, blistered or peeling.
These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.
Do not drive yourself to A&E.
The person you speak to at 999 will give you advice about what to do.
Other side effects
These are not all the side effects of ketoconazole. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicine packet.
Reporting side effects
You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.
Visit the Yellow Card website for more information about reporting side effects.