Ketoconazole cream is a topical antifungal medication used to treat various skin infections caused by fungi or yeast. It is formulated with ketoconazole 2%, which is a broad-spectrum synthetic antifungal agent that inhibits the growth of dermatophytes and yeasts by altering the permeability of the cell membrane. The cream is formulated in an aqueous cream vehicle consisting of butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), cetyl alcohol, isopropyl myristate, polysorbate 60, polysorbate 80, propylene glycol, purified water, sorbitan monostearate, and stearyl alcohol.
Positive aspects of ketoconazole cream:
- It is effective in treating various skin infections caused by fungi or yeast.
- It is available in different forms such as cream, foam, gel, and shampoo.
- It has very few side effects.
Negative aspects of ketoconazole cream:
- It may cause hair discoloration, abnormal hair texture, removal of the curl from permanently waved hair, hair loss, itching, burning sensation of the skin, or blistering, peeling, or redness of the skin.
- It may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
Ingredients of ketoconazole cream:
- Ketoconazole 2%: broad-spectrum synthetic antifungal agent.
- Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA): an antioxidant.
- Cetyl alcohol: a fatty alcohol used as an emollient and emulsifier.
- Isopropyl myristate: a synthetic oil used as a lubricant and emollient.
- Polysorbate 60: a surfactant and emulsifier.
- Polysorbate 80: a surfactant and emulsifier[[1]](https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.c...