Ketoconazole 2% shampoo is a medicated shampoo designed to treat fungal infections affecting the scalp, such as seborrheic dermatitis, pityriasis capitis (dandruff), and pityriasis versicolor that may be associated with the fungus Pityrosporum. It contains 20 milligrams of ketoconazole per gram of shampoo. Other ingredients include coconut fatty acid diethanolamide, disodium laureth sulfosuccinate, FD & C Red No. 40, hydrochloric acid, imidurea, laurdimonium hydroxypropyl, and benzyl alcohol.
Here are some positive and negative aspects of ketoconazole 2% shampoo:
Positive:
- It can help relieve the flaking, scaling, and itching associated with dandruff.
- It can treat fungal infections affecting the scalp.
- It may help promote hair growth or reduce hair loss.
Negative:
- In rare cases, ketoconazole shampoo can result in hair loss.
- It may cause allergic reactions and mild local irritation due to the presence of benzyl alcohol.
- It may remove the curl from a permanent wave in the hair.
Overall, ketoconazole 2% shampoo is an effective treatment for fungal infections affecting the scalp, but it may have some negative side effects. If you experience any adverse reactions, you should stop using the shampoo and consult your doctor.