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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking ketoconazole (Nizoral)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to ketoconazole, or if you are also taking triazolam (Halcion).

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take ketoconazole:

• decreased stomach acid (achlorhydria);
• liver disease;
• kidney disease;
• a heart rhythm disorder; or
• a personal or family history of "Long QT syndrome."

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether ketoconazole is harmful to an unborn baby. Before you take this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

Ketoconazole may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take ketoconazole (Nizoral)?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Ketoconazole works best if you take it with food.

Take this medication for the entire length of time prescribed by your doctor. Your symptoms may get better before the infection is completely treated. Ketoconazole will not treat a viral infection such as the common cold or flu.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your liver function may need to be checked with blood tests on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

Store ketoconazole at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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