Ketoconazole is an antifungal medication. It is used to treat fungal infections in the mouth (like thrush), the esophagus,
the genital tract (like a yeast infection) and other areas. The drug may also be used to prevent a relapse after treatment of the initial infection.
HOW should this drug be taken ?
Ketoconazole is usually taken once a day with a meal. For oral candidiasis, the usual dose is 1 tablet (200 mg) daily.
For esophageal candidiasis, the dose is 1 or 2 tablets daily. Occasionally, your physician may prescribe a larger dose. If
you have difficulty swallowing tablets a liquid preparation is available. Normal gastric acid is required for the drug to be
absorbed; absorption may be improved by taking the tablet with a carbonated cola drink or cranberry juice.
What should you do if you FORGET a dose?
If you miss a dose of ketoconazole, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is time for your next dose, do not double the dose, just carry on with your regular schedule.
What ADVERSE EFFECTS can this drug cause ? What should you do about them?
Adverse effects include nausea, abdominal pain, and itching. Less common side effects include: headache, dizziness,
drowsiness, fever, rash, diarrhea, or impotence. If your eyes become sensitive to light, consider wearing tinted or dark
glasses. Breast pain or tenderness may occur in men. If these effects occur and are bothersome, please call the clinic or discuss them at your next visit.
In rare cases, ketoconazole may cause abnormalities in blood tests of liver or adrenal gland function. To monitor for these side effects, blood tests must be done regularly.
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP YOUR DOCTOR AND LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS, SO THAT YOUR PROGRESS CAN BE ASSESSED REGULARLY.
IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE EFFECTS, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE TEAM.
What other PRECAUTIONS should you follow while using this drug ?
This medication can interact with other drugs. It is important that your physician or pharmacist knows about other drugs
you are taking, even medications you can buy without a prescription. As well, before beginning any new prescription or nonprescription medication, discuss them with your physician or pharmacist.
The safety of ketoconazole has not been established during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Please discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist if this is a concern.
How should this medication be STORED?
Ketoconazole should be stored in a cool (15-30 0C) dry place, protected from light and well out of the reach of
children. Do not store in your bathroom, as heat and moisture may cause the medication to lose potency.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THIS MEDICATION, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR
PHARMACIST OR PHYSICIAN OR NURSE.
WRITE QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS DOWN TO ENSURE THEY ARE ADDRESSED.
