What it means
An antifungal that stops fungi from building their cell walls. The cream and shampoo treat ringworm, yeast skin infections and dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis). The tablets are used only for serious fungal infections when other drugs cannot be used, because they can cause severe liver damage, dangerous heart rhythm changes and many drug interactions.
For the nurse
For tablets, liver tests are checked before and during treatment; teach the client to report dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, or tiredness. Antacids lower its absorption.
At a glance
| Drug class | azole antifungal |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Nizoral (shampoo); Ketodan, Extina (foam) |
| Also written | Nizoral |
Related terms
griseofulvin
An oral antifungal drug for fungal infections of the scalp, skin, hair and nails.
miconazole
An azole antifungal drug used on the skin, in the vagina or in the mouth for yeast and fungal infections.