Pet Medication 101: Ketoconazole

It’s important to understand a medication’s uses and side effects before giving it to your pet. This medication info sheet is meant to give you a good understanding of what ketoconazole is used for, how it works, and potential side effects in cats and dogs. Always consult a veterinarian before giving your pet any medication.
1. Drug Name:
ketoconazole
2. Brand Names:
Nizoral, Ketochlor
3. How Dispensed:
Prescription only
4. Forms:
200mg tablets, topical cream, shampoo (with Chlorhexidine)
5. Drug Type/Class:
Antifungal
6. Uses in Cats and Dogs:
Treats fungus of the lymph nodes, skin, nails, respiratory system, bone, and other parts of the body
7. How it Works:
Ketoconazole works by inhibiting the production of a fungal cell wall. This causes the fungus to be structurally deficient, making it unable to reproduce or survive.
8. Side Effects and/or Signs of Overdose:
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Dizziness
- Light sensitivity
- Liver toxicity/jaundice
- Cortisol suppression
- Low platelets
- Bleeding of the mouth
- Haircoat color change
- Cataracts
9. Drug Interactions:
- Alprazolam
- Aminophylline/Theophylline
- Amlodipine
- Antacids
- Astemizole
- Buspirone
- Busulfan
- Ciprofloxacin
- Cisapride
- Cyclosporine
- Diazepam
- Digoxin
- Doxorubicin
- Fentanyl
- H2 blockers
- Methylprednisolone
- Midazolam
- Mitotane
- Phenytoin sodium
- Rifampin
- Sildenafil
- Sucralfate
- Tramadol
- Triazolam
- Vincristine/Vinblastine
- Warfarin sodium
10. Cautionary Statements:
- Due to its toxic side effects and the availability of safer options, use in cats is generally not recommended.
- Use with caution in patients with liver disease, low platelet counts, and those undergoing surgical procedures.
- Use with caution in patients with serious illnesses or trauma.
- Do not use in pregnant pets unless it is for a life-threatening infection.
- Use with caution in breeding pets, as it can cause temporary infertility.
- Use with caution in nursing pets because it is excreted in the milk.
Read more:
Aspergillosis in Dogs and Cats
Medication Info Sheet: Fluconazole
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