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Nizoral shampoo for dandruff.
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025

Dandruff is a problem familiar to many people. Visible, exfoliated particles of keratinized skin can cover not only clothes, but also show through on the hair, which looks completely unaesthetic. In addition, dandruff is often accompanied by itchy, uncomfortable sensations, and regular washing of the head does not bring relief. In such a situation, Nizoral anti-dandruff shampoo can help - this is a popular dermatology remedy that eliminates the main cause of the pathology - the fungal pathogen that causes all the signs of seborrheic dermatitis. [ 1 ]
ATC classification
Active ingredients
Indications Nizorala for dandruff
One of the main indications for the use of Nizoral shampoo against dandruff is the presence of the yeast-like fungus Malassezia on the scalp. Excessive activity of the fungal pathogen leads to the development of painful disorders, including hyperkeratosis - increased division of epidermal layer cells.
Dandruff, in particular, can be associated with hyperactivity of glandular secretion and changes in the composition of sebaceous secretions. Such reactions lead to a violation of local immunity, to a weakening of the protective function of the skin.
Dandruff can be a consequence of hormonal, neurogenic, immune processes in the body. Certain genetic factors, the influence of deep or frequent nervous stress, poor nutrition and lifestyle are not excluded. However, in the presence of concomitant factors, there is always a first underlying cause - a fungal infection that can be stopped by using Nizoral shampoo. The study showed that shampoos containing the antifungal substance Nizoral were the most effective in combating dandruff pathogens Malassezia furfur (Pityrosporum ovale). [ 2 ]
Release form
The composition of such a product as Nizoral anti-dandruff shampoo is represented by active and auxiliary ingredients. The main one is ketoconazole - an antifungal drug, an imidazole derivative, which successfully copes with mycoses.
The supporting cast includes:
- sodium lauryl sulfate;
- disodium lauryl sulfosuccinate;
- diethanolamide of coconut oil fatty acids;
- collagen hydrolysate;
- macrogol;
- sodium chloride;
- hydrochloric acid;
- imidurea;
- sodium hydroxide;
- flavoring and coloring agents.
Nizoral shampoo can be packaged in plastic bottles of different capacities: the smallest of them is 25 ml, the medium one is 60 ml and the largest one is 120 ml. In the pharmaceutical network, the anti-dandruff remedy is positioned as an antifungal drug for local use.
Pharmacodynamics
Nizoral anti-dandruff shampoo is both a preventive and a therapeutic product with antiseborrheic and antifungal activity, which is successfully used to get rid of dandruff and other unpleasant symptoms (including seborrheic dermatitis). As practice shows, Nizoral shampoo does not irritate the skin even with frequent use, and the consistency of the product is such that it allows you to easily and quickly treat the hair and scalp, which allows you to act on the problem as effectively as possible.
Nizoral anti-dandruff shampoo demonstrates active action against yeast fungi, dermatophytes, gram-positive coccal flora, higher fungi, individual dermatomycosis pathogens, dimorphic fungi, pathogens of systemic mycoses. The product counteracts the growth and development of dermatophytes, is effective in the treatment of seborrheic eczema, pityriasis versicolor, dandruff, without penetrating into the systemic bloodstream.
Pharmacokinetics
The concentrations of the active ingredient in the study were so low that they were not detected in the blood serum when Nizoral shampoo was applied externally to the skin and scalp. Determination of such a content was possible only when the product was applied to the entire surface of the body: the concentration in this case fluctuated in the range from 11.2 to 33.3 ng per milliliter. Experts consider this indicator to be clinically insignificant or one that will not affect any drug interactions. When using Nizoral shampoo in large quantities, the likelihood of developing allergic processes increases. [ 3 ]
The details of the kinetic picture of topical application of Nizoral antidandruff shampoo have not been studied.
Dosing and administration
To treat dandruff in adults and children over the age of twelve, Nizoral shampoo is applied to the scalp and hair for about 4 minutes, lathered, and then washed off with warm water. The frequency of use of the product is twice a week for ½-1 month.
For preventive purposes, the product is used according to the scheme once a week, or once every two weeks, alternating with regular hair washing products.
If any additional anti-dandruff products are used (creams, ointments, balms), then the possibility of combining them with the medicinal shampoo Nizoral is discussed with a specialist individually.
Application for children
There is no negative systemic effect when using Nizoral shampoo for dandruff. However, experts do not give a clear answer to the possibility of using this product in pediatrics - primarily due to the lack of relevant studies involving children. Therefore, it is officially considered that it is possible to use Nizoral to treat dandruff in childhood, starting from the age of 12. [ 6 ] If it is necessary to use the product before this age, then you should consult a specialist - in particular, a pediatrician.
Use Nizorala for dandruff during pregnancy
By studying the possibility of the active component of Nizoral shampoo penetrating into the systemic bloodstream, researchers were convinced of the absolute safety of this product. However, similar studies involving pregnant or lactating women have not yet been conducted, so experts cannot recommend using the product during these periods. [ 4 ] It is unknown whether there is a danger to the immediate course of pregnancy or to the health of the future baby.
However, plasma concentrations of the active ingredient of Nizoral shampoo were not detected after normal daily use of the product by non-pregnant women. It can be assumed that during pregnancy, the risks of negative effects of the shampoo are practically reduced to zero. Given the above, the use of Nizoral for dandruff by pregnant and lactating women is allowed, but consultation with a specialist should also be mandatory.
Contraindications
Age up to 12 years, pregnancy and lactation periods are relative contraindications to the use of Nizoral shampoo for dandruff. They are relative because in certain situations the doctor may allow both a pregnant woman and a small child to use the shampoo - for example, if there is no possibility to use another remedy, and along with this there is confidence in the safety of Nizoral.
As for absolute contraindications, these include individual hypersensitivity and allergic reactions of the body to at least one ingredient in the shampoo.
Allergic reactions have become widespread all over the world today and tend to grow further. Almost any substance can become an allergen, including those included in hygienic medical and preventive products, such as Nizoral anti-dandruff shampoo. In this case, the first procedure with shampoo may go smoothly, and an allergic reaction will be detected after the second use. If unpleasant allergy symptoms do appear, then you need to stop using the product and consult a specialist. In the future, you will have to carefully study the composition of anti-dandruff shampoos so as not to choose a product with a potential allergen again.
Side effects Nizorala for dandruff
Side effects from using Nizoral shampoo against dandruff on the scalp are extremely rare - about 1% of cases. Moreover, some such symptoms occur more often than others, and some are extremely rare, or are generally recorded in isolated cases. But everyone needs to know about such possible manifestations - first of all, for safety reasons for their own health.
We are talking about the following side effects:
- inflammatory processes in hair follicles – folliculitis;
- development of hypersensitivity to the ingredients of anti-dandruff shampoo;
- temporary change in taste sensations;
- increased lacrimation, conjunctivitis;
- hair loss, dry skin or hair, changes in hair quality;
- a feeling of skin irritation, the appearance of rashes (including acne);
- contact dermatitis, change in hair color;
- redness of the skin, itching sensation;
- formation of pustules, allergic processes.
If any of the listed symptoms appear, it is imperative to stop using the product and consult a specialist. [ 5 ]
Overdose
During the use of Nizoral shampoo for dandruff, cases of overdose have not been recorded, since the drug does not have a systemic effect and is applied exclusively externally.
If the product was accidentally or intentionally swallowed, it is necessary to consult a doctor for symptomatic and supportive treatment. It is strictly forbidden to provoke a gag reflex or wash out the stomach, in order to avoid foaming and aspiration. It is recommended to take any sorbent, and then a laxative.
If shampoo has been ingested by a child, then seeking medical help is a must.
Interactions with other drugs
Experts have not established any drug interactions with Nizoral shampoo for dandruff. Since the product does not have a systemic effect, it can be combined with any medications for internal use.
The external combination of several anti-dandruff medications at once should be discussed with a specialist, as this may result in unforeseen and unpleasant consequences - for example, excessive dry skin, hair loss, etc.
Storage conditions
Nizoral anti-dandruff shampoo can be stored under normal conditions, adhering to the temperature range from +8 to +25°C. Children should not be allowed near the storage areas of washing, hygienic, medicinal and prophylactic products.
Places near heaters, radiators, and areas exposed to direct sunlight are not suitable for storing shampoos. It is best if such a place is cool and well ventilated.
Shelf life
Nizoral anti-dandruff shampoo can be used for three years from the date of production: the production date is always indicated directly on the bottle of the product.
Analogues
Nizoral is far from the only anti-dandruff shampoo based on the therapeutic action of ketoconazole. Other washing hygiene products have a similar composition and effectiveness:
- Dermazole shampoo;
- Kenazol shampoo;
- Ketozoral-Darnitsa;
- Orazol shampoo;
- Perhotal;
- Ebersept.
Keto Plus shampoo has a similar effect. However, ketoconazole in this product is enhanced by another active ingredient – zinc pyrithione, which makes the product even more effective. [ 7 ], [ 8 ]
Reviews
Such a common phenomenon as dandruff is mainly associated with a fungal infection, in which the mechanism of cell division is disrupted, the stratum corneum thickens, itching appears, and the skin begins to peel excessively.
Attention!
To simplify the perception of information, this instruction for use of the drug "Nizoral shampoo for dandruff." translated and presented in a special form on the basis of the official instructions for medical use of the drug. Before use read the annotation that came directly to medicines.
Description provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-healing. The need for this drug, the purpose of the treatment regimen, methods and dose of the drug is determined solely by the attending physician. Self-medication is dangerous for your health.