ketoconazole/zinc pyrithione

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum 

ketoconazole works by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol which is a key component of fungal cell membrane. The disruption in structure of fungal cell membrane weakens the cell thus leading to its death.  

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

Burning 

Itching 

Dryness of hair and scalp 

Peripheral neuritis 

Pruritis 

Irritation 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning 

None  

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

It is contraindicated with known allergic reaction or hypersensitivity.  

Caution: 

Avoid using ketoconazole/zinc pyrithione directly in eyes.  

History of liver disease should consult doctor before using this drug. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: 

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excretion into human milk is unknown  

Pregnancy Categories:         

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women.  
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women. 
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women. 
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology  

ketoconazole blocks the activity of an enzyme lanosterol 14-alpha-demethylase which is essential for the conversion of lanosterol to ergosterol in fungi. Without ergosterol the fungal cell membrane becomes structurally unstable and leading to cell death. 

It works by disrupting the cellular processes of microorganisms and can interfere with the growth and replication of these microorganisms. 

Pharmacodynamics 

ketoconazole blocks the activity of lanosterol 14-alpha-demethylase and disrupts the fungal cell membrane structure thus weakens the cell by leading to its death. 

Zinc pyrithione involves disrupting the normal cellular processes of microorganisms. It can interfere with DNA synthesis, disrupt cellular respiration, and affect membrane permeability and leading to the inhibition of growth and replication of microorganisms. 

Pharmacokinetics 

Limited information available on ADME. 

Adminstartion

Administration 

ketoconazole/zinc pyrithione is a combination drug available in topical forms like shampoo, lotion, gel, and cream. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: ketoconazole/zinc pyrithione 

Why do we use ketoconazole/zinc pyrithione? 

Keto-AZ (ketoconazole/zinc pyrithione) is a combination drug is used in treatment of fungal skin infections and it control fungal infections like athlete foot (infection between toes) and Jock itch (infection of the groin area). It also treats seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.