Is Ketoconazole safe during pregnancy?
Antifungal dandruff shampoo and cream. NHS says you can use it while pregnant or breastfeeding.
PregnancyGenerally safe
BreastfeedingGenerally safe
EvidenceModerate
What the sources say
NHS says ketoconazole cream or shampoo can be used in pregnancy because only tiny amounts are absorbed, and is OK while breastfeeding; a dermatology review calls it likely safe in limited areas for brief periods. LactMed says shampoo or skin use poses little to no risk to a breastfed baby but avoid use on the nipples (or wash off before feeds). Oral ketoconazole is different and not covered here.
Also listed as
extina, ketoconazole 1%, ketoconazole 2%, ketoconazole shampoo, nizoral, xolegel
Sources
- NHS: Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility while using ketoconazole
- NIH PubMed (peer-reviewed review): Topical antiviral and antifungal medications in pregnancy: a review of safety profiles (J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol, 2017)
- NIH LactMed: Ketoconazole - Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed)
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.