Ketoconazole

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Oct 13, 2022

Side Effects


Ketoconazole Side Effects

Possible side effects of ketoconazole applied topically are listed below. Tell your doctor if these side effects are severe or do not go away in a few days.

  • Dry skin
  • Itching
  • Stinging or irritation of the skin
  • Blisters
  • Abnormal hair texture

Rarely, ketoconazole can cause more serious side effects. Seek immediate medical help if you develop the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction:

  • Redness, swelling, warmth, or pain in the area of application
  • Skin rash, hives
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing 

The above list may not include all the potential adverse effects of ketoconazole. Contact your doctor if the side effects are unusual or severe or if they do not get better over time. You can also report unusual side effects to the Food and Drug Administration at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Ketoconazole Overdose: In case someone swallows a topical formulation of ketoconazole, contact your doctor immediately. You can also call your local poison control center or the national poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If a person cannot be awakened, has trouble breathing, has collapsed, or has had a seizure, call 911.

Source: FDA