Compare Ketoconazole vs. Diflucan

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

Nizoral (Ketoconazole)

Prescription or OTC

Diflucan (fluconazole)

Prescription only

Treats fungal infections.

Nizoral (Ketoconazole) is a medication used on your skin to treat fungal infections; however, it takes several weeks for full recovery, and the directions are specific to each type of medication.

Treats yeast and other fungal infections.

Diflucan (fluconazole) is a cheap and effective treatment for fungal infections.

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3.9/ 5 average rating with 30 reviewsforDiflucan

Upsides

Recommended as a first choice medication to treat skin infections caused by fungi, including cradle cap, seborrheic dermatitis, and tinea versicolor.
Nizoral (Ketoconazole) isn't taken orally, so it doesn't cause liver issues.
Can be used with other medications to help control redness and swelling.
The 1% shampoo is available over-the-counter in the drugstore.

Available in a cheap generic version.
Single dose treatment for vaginal infections.
Available as a pill, liquid, or injection.

Downsides

The foams (Extina and Ketodan) and gel (Xolegel) are only available as brand name and can be more expensive.
The 2.5% shampoo and creams are available only by prescription, but are generic.
The shampoo has to be left on for at least 5-10 minutes after lathering before you rinse it off.
It can take a few weeks for the infection to clear and a few months before the skin returns to its normal color.
The fungal infections can be confused for other skin infections, so if Nizoral (Ketoconazole) doesn't work, it could be caused by another skin problem.