Nizoral 2% Shampoo

Nizoral 2% Shampoo is a medicated antifungal shampoo containing ketoconazole, used to treat and control dandruff, seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp, and fungal scalp infections such as pityriasis versicolor-related flaking. It is available without a prescription at pharmacies in Malaysia and is commonly used for persistent or moderate-to-severe dandruff that does not respond well to regular anti-dandruff shampoos.

Ketoconazole works directly against the yeast (Malassezia species) that is commonly associated with dandruff and an itchy, flaking scalp, addressing the underlying cause rather than just washing away visible flakes. Nizoral Shampoo is intended for scalp use and is typically used as a short treatment course followed by less frequent maintenance use.

Ketoconazole is an antifungal agent that works by disrupting the cell membrane of Malassezia yeast and other susceptible fungi on the scalp, weakening the cell wall and stopping the organism from growing and multiplying. By reducing the yeast population on the scalp, it helps control the flaking, itching, and irritation associated with dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis.

Wet the hair and scalp thoroughly, apply enough shampoo to work up a lather, and massage gently into the scalp, leaving it in place for about 3 to 5 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. For treatment of dandruff, this is usually done twice a week for 2 to 4 weeks, then reduced to less frequent use (such as every 1 to 2 weeks) to help prevent recurrence, or as directed by a pharmacist.

Use Nizoral 2% Shampoo as a topical scalp treatment, typically twice weekly for the initial treatment period, leaving it on the scalp for the recommended contact time before rinsing. After symptoms improve, it may be used intermittently (for example, every 1 to 2 weeks) as a maintenance routine to help prevent dandruff from returning; follow the specific schedule on the packaging or a pharmacist’s advice.

Nizoral 2% Shampoo generally has a shelf life of around 2 to 3 years from manufacture when unopened and stored correctly; check the expiry date on the bottle before use. Once opened, use within the timeframe stated on the label for best results.

Store the shampoo below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and keep the cap tightly closed between uses. Keep out of reach of children, and avoid contact with the eyes; rinse thoroughly with water if accidental eye contact occurs.

• Known hypersensitivity to ketoconazole or any ingredient in the shampoo
• Broken or significantly irritated scalp skin (use with caution, seek pharmacist advice)
• Avoid use on children without pharmacist or doctor guidance
• Not for use on areas other than the scalp/hair unless directed

• Minimal systemic absorption is expected with normal topical scalp use, so significant drug interactions are uncommon
• Avoid using other medicated scalp treatments at the same time without pharmacist advice, as this may increase irritation
• Inform your pharmacist if you are using other topical scalp or hair treatments concurrently
• Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are also using an oral antifungal medicine (including oral ketoconazole) to avoid unnecessary duplication of treatment

• Leave the shampoo on the scalp for the full recommended contact time for best effect
• Avoid getting the shampoo in your eyes; rinse immediately with water if this happens
• Be patient – visible improvement in dandruff usually takes a few weeks of consistent use
• Switch to maintenance (less frequent) use once symptoms are controlled
• Stop use and consult a pharmacist if irritation or hair loss worsens
• Store away from children and avoid swallowing

Nizoral 2% Shampoo is intended for scalp conditions related to yeast overgrowth, such as dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis, and is not a general-purpose shampoo for cosmetic hair care. If flaking, redness, or itching persists despite consistent use, or if the scalp appears infected or inflamed, consult a pharmacist or doctor for further assessment.