ketoconazole, Nizoral, Extina, Xolegel, Kuric (cont.)

Pharmacy Author:

Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD

Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD

Dr. Ogbru received his Doctorate in Pharmacy from the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy in 1995. He completed a Pharmacy Practice Residency at the University of Arizona/University Medical Center in 1996. He was a Professor of Pharmacy Practice and a Regional Clerkship Coordinator for the University of the Pacific School of Pharmacy from 1996-99.

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Medical and Pharmacy Editor:

Jay W. Marks, MD

Jay W. Marks, MD

Jay W. Marks, MD, is a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist. He graduated from Yale University School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine and gastroenterology at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

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Ketoconazole also may reduce the elimination of some "statins" (for example, simvastatin [Zocor]) leading to an increase in the blood levels of statins and increasing the risk of side effects such as rhabdomyolysis (severe muscle injury).

The risk of abnormal heart beats increases when ketoconazole is combined with amiodarone (Cordarone), bepridil (Vascor), and pimozide (Orap).

PREGNANCY: Ketoconazole has not been adequately studied in pregnant women.

NURSING MOTHERS: A small amount of ketoconazole is secreted in breast milk. Nursing mothers should probably avoid breastfeeding while using ketoconazole.

SIDE EFFECTS: Ketoconazole generally is well tolerated. Ketoconazole can cause rash, itching, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headache, dizziness, fatigue, impotence, and blood count abnormalities. Rarely, ketoconazole has serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). Also rarely, ketoconazole has been associated with severe depression, hair loss, and tingling sensations. Liver dysfunction also has been reported. Signs of liver problems include unusual fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, yellowing of the skin (jaundice), dark urine, and pale stools. Development of these symptoms while taking ketoconazole should be reported to a physician.

Reference: FDA Prescribing Information

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