Ketoconazole 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 is available both over the counter (OTC) and by prescription from a healthcare provider. The shampoo contains 2% ketoconazole as the active ingredient, which is an azole antifungal that works by preventing the growth of fungus.

Ingredients:

• Active ingredient: ketoconazole 2%
• Excipients: coconut fatty acid diethanolamide, disodium laureth sulfosuccinate, FD & C Red No. 40, hydrochloric acid, imidurea, laurdimonium hydroxypropyl, benzyl alcohol, sodium lauryl ether sulfate, purified water, among others.
• OTC ketoconazole shampoos contain 1% or less of ketoconazole, while prescription shampoos contain 2% or more of ketoconazole.

Positive:

• Effective in treating fungal infections affecting the scalp.
• May help relieve the flaking, scaling, and itching associated with dandruff.
• May promote hair growth or reduce hair loss.

Negative:

• In rare cases, ketoconazole shampoo can result in hair loss.
• May cause allergic reactions or mild local irritation.

In summary, ketoconazole shampoo is a medicated shampoo designed to treat fungal infections affecting the scalp. It contains 2% ketoconazole as the active ingredient and other excipients. While it is effective in treating fungal infections, it may cause hair loss or allergic reactions in rare cases.