Ketoconazole Topical: How Should I Apply Ketoconazole Topical

Content provided by Cerner Multum, Inc.

How should I apply ketoconazole topical?

Use this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not use the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the instructions on your prescription label.

Do not use this medication for any skin condition that has not been diagnosed by a doctor.

Wash your hands before and after using this medication.

Clean and dry the affected area. Apply a thin layer of the cream or gel to the affected skin area as directed. This medicine is usually used for only 2 to 4 weeks.

Wait at least 20 minutes after applying this medicine before you use cosmetics or sunscreen on the treated skin area. Do not wash the treated skin for at least 3 hours after applying ketoconazole topical.

Do not use bandages or dressings over the treated skin areas, unless your doctor has told you to.

Use the shampoo twice per week, unless your doctor has told you otherwise. Apply enough shampoo to create a lather and massage the scalp for 1 minute. Rinse thoroughly and repeat, leaving the lather on for an additional 3 minutes. Then rinse it off completely. Allow at least 3 days to pass between uses of ketoconazole shampoo.

Use this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated.

Call your doctor if your condition does not improve within 2 weeks, or if your symptoms get worse.

Store ketoconazole topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Ketoconazole topical gel is flammable. Do not use it while you are smoking or near an open flame.

Last updated:	May 14, 2008