Description:

Ketazol Shampoo (by Shalina) is a medicated antifungal shampoo containing ketoconazole 2% w/w. It is used to treat and prevent dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp), fungal scalp infections (tinea capitis), pityriasis (tinea) versicolor when present on the scalp, and seborrheic dermatitis/flaky itchy scalp conditions. It reduces scalp itching, flaking, scaling, and inflammation caused by Malassezia yeast overgrowth. In Ghana (Accra), Ketazol Shampoo is a common, affordable prescription/OTC medicated shampoo available in pharmacies (e.g., Scab Pharmacy, Country Medical Pharmacy, Vafy Pharmacy) for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis management.

Prescription: Prescription-only in many regulated markets, but commonly sold over-the-counter (OTC) in Ghana for short-term use in uncomplicated dandruff/seborrheic dermatitis. Available freely in pharmacies. Consult a pharmacist or dermatologist for proper diagnosis (to rule out psoriasis, eczema, or bacterial causes), especially for persistent or severe scalp conditions.

Therapeutic Category:

Topical Azole Antifungal Shampoo (Ketoconazole-based for seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, and scalp fungal infections.

Active Ingredients/Composition:

• Active ingredient: Ketoconazole USP – 2% w/w (20 mg per gram). Other ingredients (excipients, typical): Purified water, sodium lauryl ether sulphate (surfactant), cocamidopropyl betaine, cocamide DEA, glycol distearate, fragrance, sodium chloride (thickener), citric acid (pH adjuster), methylchloroisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone (preservatives), and colorants. The shampoo is clear to slightly opalescent, viscous, and has a mild fragrance.

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant:

• Ketazol Shampoo 2% (standard 60ml or 100ml bottle). Related variants: Ketazol Cream 2% (for skin fungal infections), Ketazol in larger bottles (e.g., 200ml in some markets), or combination products (rare). The shampoo is the scalp-specific variant.

Consume Type:

Topical – Medicated shampoo (applied to wet scalp/hair; lather, leave for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly; not for oral use).

Directions/Usage: Wet hair and scalp thoroughly.

• Apply sufficient amount to produce enough lather to cover the affected areas (scalp and adjacent areas).
• Gently massage into scalp to form lather.
• Leave on for 3–5 minutes (to allow ketoconazole to act).
• Rinse thoroughly with water.
• Treatment regimen:
  • Seborrheic dermatitis/dandruff: Use twice weekly for 2–4 weeks (or until symptoms clear).
  • Maintenance/prevention: Use once every 1–2 weeks.
  • Pityriasis versicolor (scalp involvement): Use once daily for up to 5 days.
• For best results: Use regularly during treatment phase. Avoid eyes (rinse immediately if contact occurs).

Common Side Effects: Common (mild/local):

• Scalp irritation (burning, stinging, itching on application).
• Dryness or oiliness of hair/scalp.
• Hair discoloration (rare). Rare: Allergic contact dermatitis (severe rash, swelling—discontinue), hair loss (very rare). Systemic absorption is minimal with topical use.

Package Type:

Plastic bottle of 60ml or 100ml (white/opaque or clear with flip-top cap; labelled with ingredients, uses, and instructions; often in simple carton).

Storage Advice: Store at room temperature (below 25–30°C) in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep tightly closed. Do not freeze. Out of reach of children.

Safety Advice:

• For external use only; avoid eyes (rinse immediately if contact occurs).
• Contraindicated if allergic to ketoconazole, other azoles, or ingredients.
• Caution in pregnancy (Category C; use only if benefits outweigh risks), breastfeeding (minimal absorption), children (safe but consult doctor), or sensitive skin/scalp.
• If severe irritation, rash, swelling, or no improvement after 4 weeks, stop use and seek medical care (possible resistance or misdiagnosis).
• Do not use for viral/bacterial scalp conditions or acne (may worsen).
• Keep out of reach of children.

Product Substitutes: Similar ketoconazole 2% shampoos in Ghana include:

• Generic ketoconazole 2% shampoo (various importers).
• Nizoral Shampoo (original brand by Janssen if stocked).
• Dandrazol Shampoo (ketoconazole 2%).
• Alternatives: Selsun (selenium sulfide), Head & Shoulders Clinical Strength (selenium sulfide), or coal tar shampoos for seborrheic dermatitis. Consult pharmacist in Accra (e.g., Scab Pharmacy, Country Medical Pharmacy) for availability.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Shalina Laboratories Pvt Ltd (India-based; primary manufacturer of Ketazol shampoo). Marketed/distributed in Ghana by Shalina Healthcare or local importers/pharmacies (widely stocked at outlets like Scab Pharmacy, Vafy Pharmacy).

Country of Origin:

India (manufactured by Shalina Laboratories Pvt Ltd; imported to Ghana and widely available in local pharmacies).