Sebizole (Ketoconazole) 2% Shampoo

Sebizole Shampoo general information

What is Sebizole Shampoo used for?

Sebizole Shampoo 2% is used to treat and prevent conditions of the scalp, including severe dandruff and severe seborrhoeic dermatitis, thought to be caused by an inflammatory reaction to metabolites of the fungus malassezia.  This is a yeast fungus that is normally found in the skin, but if it becomes overgrown it can cause skin problems.  Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a chronic form of eczema/dermatitis that affects mainly the scalp and face causing dry or greasy scaling of the scalp.  Dandruff, also known as pityriasis capitis, is a common mild form of seborrhoeic dermatitis, characterised by flaking of the skin on the scalp.  Other conditions may cause dandruff, including dry skin or oily skin, which can cause clumping of skin cells that have been shed; tinea capitis a fungal infection of the scalp caused by the a dermatophyte fungus tinea; also psoriasis, a non-allergic chronic inflammatory skin disease that is characterised by the appearance of red raised patches of thickened skin covered in a dry silvery scaly rash and is thought to be an autoimmune disorder (hyperactivity of the immune system which then attacks self).  Sebizole Shampoo 2% relieves the itching, redness and scaling caused by these conditions.

How does Sebizole Shampoo work?

Sebizole Shampoo 2% contains ketoconazole, a synthetic broad-spectrum antifungal agent that is used to treat severe dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis.  Ketoconazole in Sebizole Shampoo 2% kills the fungus by specifically inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an important component of fungal cell membrane that is not found in animal cells.  Ketoconazole in Sebizole Shampoo 2% weakens the fungal cell membrane, causing the cell contents to leak out which kills the fungus, preventing the fungus from spreading and relieving symptoms like itching and scaling caused by the infection.   

What does Sebizole Shampoo contain?

Sebizole Shampoo 2% contains the active ingredient ketoconazole, synthetic broad-spectrum antifungal that is used to treat dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp.  It also contains sodium laureth sulfate, cocamide DEA, sodium lauroyl sarcosinate, PEG-150 distearate, hydrochloric acid, Germall II (preservative), Herb Flower fragrance, erythrosine sodium, purified water.  

Treating dandruff with Sebizole Shampoo

Sebizole Shampoo 2% contains ketoconazole, a synthetic broad-spectrum antifungal agent that is used to treat dandruff and seborrhoeic dermatitis of the scalp.  Dandruff, also known as pityriasis capitis, is a common mild form of seborrhoeic dermatitis, which is chronic form of eczema/dermatitis characterised by inflammation and scaling and flaking of the skin on the scalp.  Both seborrhoeic dermatitis and dandruff are thought to be associated with an overgrowth of malassezia, a yeast fungus that is normally found in the skin.  The rate at which dead skin cells are shed and replaced begins to speed up, as a reaction to irritation by the fungus and they clump in the sebum causing the visible flakes known as dandruff.  Ketoconazole in Sebizole Shampoo 2% inhibits the synthesis of ergosterol, an important component of fungal cell membrane that is not found in animal cells.  Sebizole shampoo 2% weakens the fungal cell membrane, causing the cell contents to leak out which kills the fungus and relieves the itching, redness and scaling caused by dandruff. 

What are the side effects of Sebizole Shampoo?

The most commonly reported side effects when using Sebizole Shampoo 2% include burning sensation, itching, skin redness or irritation where the shampoo has been used; also oily, dry hair.  Less common is discoloured hair mainly with grey hair or hair that has been permed, dyed or bleached.   

When should Sebizole Shampoo not be used?

You should not use Sebizole Shampoo 2% if you:

• are allergic to ketoconazole or any ingredients in Sebizole Shampoo
• are pregnant or are breastfeeding, without discussion with your doctor
• areusing a topical corticosteroid, you should stop using the corticosteroid for 2 weeks before starting with Sebizole Shampoo to reduce risk of irritation

How should Sebizole Shampoo be used?

You should use your Sebizole Shampoo twice a week for up to 4 weeks, using normal shampoo in between if you want to wash your hair between treatments.  Then to prevent the condition returning you can use Sebizole shampoo again after 4 weeks.  Wet your hair, apply the shampoo to your wet scalp and work into lather.  Leave on for 3 to 5 minutes then rinse thoroughly with water.  Avoid contact with the eyes and if shampoo enters the eyes, rinse with cold water.  If you stop using your Sebizole Shampoo 2% dandruff will reappear within a short time. 

How long should you use Sebizole Shampoo?

You should continue to use your Sebizole Shampoo 2% twice a week for 4 weeks, then wait 4 weeks before starting another course of treatment.

Missed dose of Sebizole Shampoo

If you miss a dose of Sebizole Shampoo apply it as soon as you remember, unless it is time to apply the next dose, then skip the missed dose.  Do not apply a double dose.

How should Sebizole Shampoo be stored?

You should store your Sebizole Shampoo below 25°C in a cool dry place.