Ketoconazole 2% w/v: uses, price & cheaper substitutes
Common uses: Dandruff – flaking, scaling and itching of the scalp; Seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp (greasy, scaly, itchy patches).
Listed MRPs range from ₹0.58 to ₹5.28 per ml across 7 listings.
Price comparison
| Brand | Manufacturer | Pack | MRP | ₹ / ml | As on |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ketoconazole Shampoo 2% W/VJan Aushadhi | Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP) | 100 ml | ₹58.13 | ₹0.58 | 19 October 2026 |
| Nizol 2% Shampoo | Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 100 ml | ₹131.69 | ₹1.32 | 19 October 2026 |
| Ketomac Shampoo | Torque Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd | 110 ml | ₹225.00 | ₹2.05 | 19 October 2026 |
| Ketokem Shampoo | Alkem Laboratories Ltd | 110 ml | ₹242.30 | ₹2.20 | 19 October 2026 |
| Danfree 2% Shampoo | Cipla Ltd | 100 ml | ₹346.88 | ₹3.47 | 19 October 2026 |
| Ketocip 2% Shampoo | Cipla Ltd | 100 ml | ₹346.88 | ₹3.47 | 19 October 2026 |
| Keraglo-AD Shampoo | Ipca Laboratories Ltd | 75 ml | ₹396.00 | ₹5.28 | 19 October 2026 |
MRPs as printed/listed on the date shown; actual price may vary.
Uses
- Dandruff – flaking, scaling and itching of the scalp.
- Seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp (greasy, scaly, itchy patches).
- Pityriasis versicolor – light or dark patches on the chest, back and arms, used as a body wash.
- Fungal scalp infection as part of treatment prescribed by a doctor.
How to take it
Wet the hair, apply enough shampoo to work up a good lather, massage into the scalp and leave it on for 3 to 5 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. For dandruff use it twice a week for 2 to 4 weeks, then once every 1 to 2 weeks to stop it coming back. For pityriasis versicolor, lather over the affected skin and a wide area around it, leave for 5 minutes and rinse, daily for up to 5 days as the doctor advises. Do not use on broken or irritated skin and keep it out of your eyes. See a doctor if there is no improvement after 4 weeks or the scalp becomes red, weepy or painful.
Side effects
Common
- Mild itching, stinging or burning where applied.
- Dry or oily hair and scalp, change in hair texture.
- Dry skin.
- Temporary increase in hair fall or loss of curl in permed hair.
Serious
Stop and get medical help urgently if you notice any of these.
- Severe redness, swelling, blistering or pain on the scalp – stop and see a doctor.
- Allergic reaction – hives, swelling of the face, difficulty breathing.
- Accidental swallowing – contact a doctor or poison helpline.
Safety information
Alcohol
No interaction with alcohol; the shampoo is used on the skin.
Pregnancy
Very little is absorbed through the skin, so it is generally considered safe, but tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Kidney problems
No special precautions; the shampoo is not absorbed in meaningful amounts.
Liver problems
No special precautions for the shampoo, unlike ketoconazole tablets.
Children
Use in children only on a doctor's advice; keep out of the eyes and out of reach to avoid swallowing.
Missed dose
Use it at the next scheduled wash. Do not use extra to make up.
Interactions
- No significant interactions with oral medicines because very little is absorbed.
- Other medicated shampoos (coal tar, selenium sulphide, zinc) – do not use on the same day unless a doctor advises.
- Steroid scalp lotions – can be used alongside if prescribed; apply at different times.
- Hair dyes and perms – use the shampoo a few days apart because it can strip colour or curl.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I use Ketomac Shampoo?
Twice a week for 2 to 4 weeks to clear dandruff, then once every 1 to 2 weeks to keep it away. Leave the lather on for 3 to 5 minutes before rinsing.
Can I use Ketomac Shampoo daily?
Daily use is not needed and can dry out the scalp and hair. Stick to twice a week during treatment and use a mild regular shampoo on other days.
Ketomac vs Keraglo-AD – what is the difference?
Both contain ketoconazole 2% and work the same way against the yeast that causes dandruff. They differ in base, fragrance and conditioning agents; choose by how your hair feels after use.
Does ketoconazole shampoo cause hair fall?
It does not cause hair loss in most people; a little extra shedding in the first washes is usually loose hair coming out. If hair fall or scalp irritation continues, stop and see a doctor.
Can I use Ketomac Shampoo in pregnancy?
Very little ketoconazole is absorbed through the scalp, so it is generally considered safe, but tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Can ketoconazole shampoo be used for fungal infection on the body?
Yes. For pityriasis versicolor it is applied as a body wash to the affected skin, left for 5 minutes and rinsed, usually daily for 5 days as advised by a doctor.
Do I need a prescription for Ketomac Shampoo in India?
Ketoconazole 2% shampoo is sold over the counter at chemists in India. See a doctor if dandruff does not improve in 4 weeks, as it may need prescription treatment.
Can children use Keraglo-AD Shampoo?
Only on a doctor's advice. Keep it out of the eyes and rinse thoroughly.
Sources
- MedlinePlus – Ketoconazole topical (19 October 2026)
- NPPA Pharma Sahi Daam (ceiling prices) (19 October 2026)
- PMBI Jan Aushadhi Product & MRP List (19 October 2026)
Medyzen Editorial Team · Last updated
This page is general information, not medical advice. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without asking a doctor or pharmacist. Terms