Ketoconazole, an ingredient in Nizoral shampoo, is a topical anti-fungal treatment that is used in treating a variety of hair loss. Although you can easily get Nizoral as an over the counter drug, it is advisable to seek a recommendation from a doctor to get the prescription-strength Nizoral.
As mentioned previously, this drug can is used to manage several hair loss problems such as genetic pattern baldness (Androgenetic alopecia) in both men and women. This antifungal drug is also used in managing scalp conditions such as dandruff. Ketoconazole is also sold as a prescription drug (Nizoral) that has worked to lessen testosterone production. When testosterone is produced in large amounts, it is converted to Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) a substance that destroys hair follicles leading to hair loss. Since the testosterone is minimized, there is less DHT making the hair healthier.
You can get Nizoral in the form of a shampoo, pill, or cream. For hair loss, this medication is available in shampoo form. You can also get it as a cream to treat the fungal infections. A doctor may prescribe Nizoral shampoo with about two percent ketoconazole to a patient suffering from Androgenetic alopecia. This medication is prescribed together with other treatments for hair loss. Some of the other treatments for hair loss used together with Ketoconazole includes Propecia (finasteride) for men, hormone replacement for women, oral contraceptives Aldactone (spironolactone), Rogaine (topical minoxidil), as well as Tagamet (cimetidine).
What are the merits and demerits of taking Nizoral?
Benefits: It is easy to use
Using Nizoral is very straightforward; you simply need to use the shampoo to massage your scalp as indicated by the doctor. Over the counter Nizoral with 1% ketoconazole is slightly weaker than the prescription Nizoral (2% ketoconazole), although it also works well against hair loss.
It is also good to note that Nizoral is not a one-stop shop that will get rid of all hair problems. This medication is used as part of hair loss treatment plans that uses other medications as well. This means it is used as an additional treatment to enhance the efforts of growing healthy and gorgeous hair.
Nizoral Side Effects
One of the main reasons why very many people consider using this medication is that it has very few side effects. However, a few individuals are allergic to ketoconazole and may experience rash, hives, or trouble breathing. Additionally, there are other individuals who complain of skin problems caused by ketoconazole, although this is rarer. Some of the skin conditions include dry skin, itchy, irritated, and/or blistering skin. Some people even report that their hair changes texture after using ketoconazole.
It should be noted that you might be allergic to any of the other ingredients in Nizoral shampoo and you should always consult a doctor before including a new medication in your daily routine.
Can I use Nizoral?
Both men and women who have a fungal infection of the scalp, like Androgenetic alopecia or dandruff, can benefit from using Nizoral shampoo. Research also shows that men who take finasteride to treat Androgenetic alopecia also achieve better management of hair loss when they incorporate the use of Nizoral. People who have hair loss that is caused by telogen effluvium, which is a condition that occurs as a result of trauma like surgery, childbirth, or a major illness, may also benefit from using a ketoconazole shampoo.
Before taking ketoconazole, you should talk to your doctor especially if you are allergic to shampoos or any other medication. You should also consult the doctor before using this medication if you are nursing, pregnant or planning to become pregnant while using the drug. You should also inform your doctor of any other supplements or medication you are using. Doing so will help the doctor to know whether the other medication can lead to unpleasant side effects. Additionally, talking to a doctor before taking this medication can help the doctor to change the doses in case of side effects. Besides, doctor monitoring enables the doctor to catch any side effects and makes the necessary changes before the condition worsens.
Nizoral Cost
The over the counter ketoconazole cost about $10 for a four-ounce bottle and a between $15-$16 for a seven-ounce bottle. If you decide to go for the prescription strength medication, the cost will depend on whether your health insurance covers it or not. It will also depend on the pharmacy where you purchase it. Remember, except that you have a very comprehensive health insurance, most insurance does not cover hair loss treatment.