Ketoconazole: A Promising Drug for Fungal Infections

    Rahul Jodh, Mukund Tawar, Gaurav Mude, Hitesh Khodaskar, Karishma Kinekar
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    Studysummary This study concluded that topical ketoconazole is effective and safe for treating superficial fungal infections and has potential for new dermatologic uses despite concerns over oral administration's adverse effects.
    Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
    Ketoconazole, a synthetic imidazole antifungal agent, is effective in treating a variety of fungal infections such as surface fungal infections, genital candidiasis, chronic mucocutaneous candidosis, and dermatophytosis. It is unique among older imidazole antifungals in that it is effective when taken orally. It is also used to prevent fungal infections in immunocompromised individuals and has been used to treat advanced prostatic cancer due to its ability to inhibit adrenal sex hormone production. Despite oral ketoconazole having significant adverse effects leading to market withdrawal and labelling modifications, topical ketoconazole is deemed safe and effective, particularly for treating superficial fungal infections. New dermatologic uses for topical ketoconazole include treating onychomycosis, blepharitis, and hair loss.
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