ketovas soap - Ketoconazole (1% w/w) medicine

Ketoconazole 1% Soap: Complete Medicine Guide

No reviews yet
🏭 La Revas Pharma Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 25, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for topical antifungal use in skin conditions such as tinea versicolor and seborrheic dermatitis.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 25, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Swelling of the face, lips, or throat.
  • Difficulty breathing or wheezing.
  • Severe blistering or peeling of the skin.
  • Intense burning or pain at the application site.
  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction such as a widespread rash or hives.
  • No improvement after using the soap for the full recommended duration.
  • Symptoms that get worse instead of better.

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is ketovas soap used for?

This medicine is a medicated soap containing ketoconazole 1%, used on the skin to treat fungal infections like dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and tinea versicolor. It works by breaking down the fungal cell membrane. Use it only on the skin, rinse well, and follow your doctor's instructions.

  • Generic Name: Ketoconazole (1% w/w)
  • Manufacturer: La Revas Pharma Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 ketovas soap के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एक केटोकोनाज़ोल 1% वाला साबुन है जो त्वचा पर लगने वाले फंगल संक्रमण के इलाज के लिए इस्तेमाल किया जाता है। यह डैंड्रफ, सेबोरहाइक डर्मेटाइटिस, और टिनिया वर्सिकलर जैसी समस्याओं में मदद करता है। यह फंगस की कोशिका की दीवार को कमजोर करके उसे मार देता है। इसे सिर्फ त्वचा पर ही लगाएं और अच्छी तरह धो लें। आंखों, मुंह या नाक में न लगाएं।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा का इस्तेमाल ज्यादातर लोगों को आराम देता है, लेकिन कुछ लोगों को त्वचा में सूखापन, खुजली, जलन या लालिमा हो सकती है। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और अपने आप ठीक हो जाते हैं। अगर आपको चेहरे, होंठ या गले में सूजन, या सांस लेने में तकलीफ हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस साबुन को सिर्फ त्वचा पर लगाएं और पानी से अच्छी तरह धो लें। आंखों, मुंह और नाक से दूर रखें। अगर गलती से लग जाए तो तुरंत पानी से धोएं। घाव या कटी-फटी त्वचा पर बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के न लगाएं। बच्चों से दूर रखें। अगर लक्षण ठीक न हों या बिगड़ें तो डॉक्टर से मिलें। गर्भवती और स्तनपान कराने वाली महिलाएं डॉक्टर से सलाह लें।

💡 Did You Know? India is the largest provider of generic medicines globally, supplying over 50% of global vaccine demand.

💊 ketovas soap Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Tinea versicolor","description":"This medicine helps clear the yeast that causes light or dark patches on the skin, especially on the chest, back, and arms.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Seborrheic dermatitis","description":"It reduces flaking, redness, and itching on the scalp and other oily areas of the skin.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Dandruff","description":"Regular use helps control the yeast that contributes to scalp flaking and itching.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Tinea corporis","description":"It is used to treat ringworm infections on the body when applied as part of a broader treatment plan.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Tinea cruris","description":"It may help treat jock itch when used on the affected skin as directed by a clinician.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Fungal acne","description":"Sometimes recommended by dermatologists for yeast-related breakouts, but this is not a standard approved use.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Prevention of fungal infections in athletes","description":"Occasionally suggested for people prone to repeated fungal skin infections, but evidence is not strong.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Fungal skin infections

Also treats: Seborrheic dermatitis, Dandruff, Tinea versicolor, Tinea corporis, Tinea cruris

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Ketoconazole (1% w/w)
Brand Nameketovas soap
ManufacturerLa Revas Pharma Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassDERMA
Action ClassFungal ergosterol synthesis inhibitor
Route of AdministrationTopical
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C. Keep the soap in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not leave it in a damp soap dish for long periods.
Shelf LifeRefer to the packaging for the exact expiry date. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Use this medicine only on the affected area and rinse it off thoroughly with water.
2
Leave the lather on the skin for 1 to 2 minutes before rinsing for best results.
3
Do not use this soap on your face unless your doctor specifically tells you to.
4
If you have dandruff, use it twice a week for up to four weeks, then once a week to prevent recurrence.
5
Stop using the soap and consult a doctor if you develop severe redness, blistering, or swelling.
6
Keep the soap dry between uses to prevent it from dissolving too quickly.
7
Tell your doctor about all other medicines you take, especially blood thinners, before using this product regularly.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Itchy, flaky scalp
This medicine is commonly used for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
Likely Use
✅
Light or dark patches on the skin
This medicine is used for tinea versicolor.
Likely Use
✅
Red, scaly rash in skin folds
This medicine may help with fungal infections in skin folds.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not used to treat fever.
Not Primary
❌
Joint pain
This medicine is not a pain reliever.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionWhen used as a soap on the skin, only a very small amount of ketoconazole is absorbed into the bloodstream. Most of the medicine stays on the skin surface and works locally. Absorption may increase if the skin is damaged or if the product is used over a large area for a long time.
DistributionBecause absorption through intact skin is minimal, this medicine does not distribute widely throughout the body when used as directed. It remains mostly in the outer layers of the skin where the fungal infection is present.
Protein BindingKetoconazole is highly bound to plasma proteins, mainly albumin, but this is not very relevant when the medicine is used on the skin because so little reaches the bloodstream.
MetabolismIf any ketoconazole is absorbed, it is broken down by the liver through enzymes called cytochrome P450, especially CYP3A4. When used as a soap, the amount absorbed is usually too small to cause significant liver metabolism.
Half-LifeThe half-life of ketoconazole in the blood is about 2 hours after oral absorption, but this is not directly applicable to skin use because systemic absorption from this soap is minimal.
ExcretionAny ketoconazole that reaches the bloodstream is removed from the body mainly through bile and feces, with a small amount leaving through urine. When used on the skin, most of the medicine is simply washed off.
BioavailabilityThe bioavailability of ketoconazole from this soap is very low because it is not designed to be absorbed into the body. It works on the skin surface, so systemic bioavailability is not the main concern.
Onset of ActionImprovement in itching and flaking may be noticed within a few days of starting this medicine, but the full benefit for conditions like tinea versicolor may take 2 to 4 weeks of regular use.
Peak Plasma TimeNot established from the available information for this soap, because blood levels are very low when it is used on the skin.
Duration of ActionThe effect on the skin lasts between applications, but the medicine does not stay active on the skin for a long time after washing. Regular use is needed to keep the fungal growth under control.

How It Works

This medicine contains ketoconazole, which stops fungi from building a healthy cell membrane. It blocks an enzyme called 14-alpha-demethylase, which is needed to make ergosterol, a key part of the fungal cell membrane. Without enough ergosterol, the membrane becomes weak and leaky, so the fungus cannot grow or survive. This action is selective for fungal cells, which is why the medicine is effective against many types of yeast and dermatophyte fungi on the skin.

Mechanism Steps

1
Contact with the fungus: When you wash with this medicine, ketoconazole comes into direct contact with fungi on the skin surface.
2
Entry into fungal cells: Ketoconazole penetrates the outer layer of the fungus and reaches the inside of the cell.
3
Blocking ergosterol production: Inside the fungal cell, ketoconazole blocks the enzyme 14-alpha-demethylase, which is needed to make ergosterol.
4
Weakening the cell membrane: Without enough ergosterol, the fungal cell membrane becomes weak and cannot control what enters and leaves the cell.
5
Fungal cell death and clearance: The weakened fungus stops growing and eventually dies, so the infection clears and symptoms improve.

💡 How to Take ketovas soap

Strength: Medicated soap containing ketoconazole 1% weight by weight.

1Wet the affected skin with clean water.
2Rub the soap gently over the area to create a light lather.
3Leave the lather on the skin for about 1 to 2 minutes, or as directed by your doctor.
4Rinse thoroughly with clean water and pat the skin dry with a clean towel.
5Wash your hands after use. Use the soap only as often as recommended.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageFor adults, this medicine is typically used once or twice daily on the affected skin, depending on the condition being treated. For dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, it is often used twice a week for up to four weeks, then once a week or as needed to prevent recurrence. For tinea versicolor, it may be used once daily for two to four weeks. The exact dose and duration must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, the area of skin involved, and your response to treatment. Always follow your doctor's instructions and do not use more than recommended.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate use in children.
Elderly DosageElderly patients can generally use this medicine in the same way as younger adults. However, older adults may have drier or more sensitive skin, so they should use it gently and stop if irritation occurs. A doctor should be consulted if there are other health conditions or medicines being taken.
Renal ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is needed for kidney problems because this medicine is used on the skin and very little is absorbed. If you have severe kidney disease, inform your doctor before use.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is usually needed for liver problems when this soap is used on the skin. However, if you have severe liver disease, consult your doctor before using it regularly over large areas.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum daily dose for this soap is not fixed because it is applied to the skin. Use only as much as needed to cover the affected area, and do not exceed the frequency recommended by your doctor.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

No food interactions
Not applicable
This medicine is used on the skin, so food does not affect its use.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 You remember before your next scheduled use
→ Use the soap as soon as you remember.
💡 Then continue with your regular schedule.
📌 It is almost time for your next scheduled use
→ Skip the missed use and continue with your next scheduled use.
💡 Do not use extra amounts to make up for the missed use.

⚠️ Side Effects of ketovas soap

✅ Common Side Effects

Dryness of skin (Common (5-10%))
Apply a gentle moisturizer after washing if the skin feels dry. If dryness continues, speak to your doctor.
Itching or stinging (Common (5-10%))
This usually settles with continued use. If it becomes bothersome, stop using the soap and consult a doctor.
Redness or irritation (Common (5-10%))
Reduce how often you use the soap or stop using it if redness is severe. Consult a doctor if it does not improve.
Burning sensation (Uncommon (1-5%))
Rinse the area with cool water. If burning continues, stop using the product and seek medical advice.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop using this medicine and get emergency medical help immediately if you have swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Severe skin reaction (Rare (<0.1%))
Stop using the soap and see a doctor right away if you develop blistering, peeling, or a painful rash.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Contact dermatitis
Stop using the soap and consult a doctor if you develop a persistent rash at the application site.
Hair discoloration or texture change
This is usually temporary. If it bothers you, speak to your doctor about alternative treatments.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Major
Quinidine Major
Atorvastatin Moderate
Midazolam Moderate
Topical corticosteroids Minor
Other antifungal soaps Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Oral anticoagulants such as warfarin
  • Certain drugs for heart rhythm such as quinidine

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Statins such as atorvastatin
  • Benzodiazepines such as midazolam

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol is not known to interact with this medicine when it is used on the skin. However, if you drink heavily, it can affect your general health and skin condition, so moderation is advised.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known allergy to ketoconazole or any other ingredient in this soap.","Do not use on broken or severely damaged skin unless a doctor advises it.","Do not use in the eyes or on mucous membranes."]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["For external use only. Do not swallow.","Avoid contact with eyes, nose, and mouth. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.","Do not use on large areas of skin for a long time without medical advice.","If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before use.","If you have liver problems, tell your doctor before using this product.","Stop using and consult a doctor if irritation or allergic reaction occurs.","Keep out of reach of children."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

This medicine is unlikely to pass into breast milk in significant amounts when used on the skin. To be safe, avoid applying it to the breast area just before feeding, and speak to your doctor if you are breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

This medicine is for external use, so overdose is unlikely. If someone accidentally swallows the soap, rinse the mouth with water and contact a poison control center or a doctor immediately. Do not try to make the person vomit unless a healthcare professional tells you to.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you forget to use this medicine, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled use, skip the missed use and continue with your regular routine. Do not use extra amounts to make up for a missed use.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Use this medicine only on the skin and rinse it off thoroughly with water. Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, nose, and other mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse the area with plenty of clean water. Do not use this medicine on open wounds, cuts, or severely inflamed skin unless your doctor tells you to. Keep the soap away from children and store it in a cool, dry place. Do not share your soap with others, because fungal infections can spread from person to person. If your symptoms do not improve after the recommended treatment period, or if they get worse, stop using the product and consult a doctor. Pregnant women, women who are breastfeeding, and people with liver problems should speak to a healthcare professional before using this medicine. Do not use more than the recommended amount or for longer than advised, because unnecessary use can lead to irritation or resistance.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Older adults can use this medicine, but their skin may be drier and more sensitive. Use it gently and stop if irritation occurs. If you have other health conditions or take multiple medicines, consult your doctor before regular use.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are trying to conceive, this soap is unlikely to affect fertility because it is used on the skin. However, consult your doctor before using any medicated product during pregnancy planning.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

If you have had recent surgery, avoid applying this soap to surgical wounds or nearby skin unless your surgeon approves it. Follow your surgeon's instructions for wound care.

🦷 Dental Procedures

This medicine is not used in the mouth, so it does not affect dental procedures. Continue your normal dental care.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Keep your skin clean and dry, especially in skin folds.
🥗
Avoid sharing towels, clothes, or combs with others to prevent spreading fungal infections.
😴
Wear loose, breathable clothing to reduce moisture and heat on the skin.
💧
Manage stress, as stress can worsen skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis.
🧘
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables to support skin health.
🌞
Get enough sleep to help your body fight infections.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

You can exercise while using this medicine. However, if you sweat heavily, rinse off and dry your skin afterward, because moisture can encourage fungal growth. Avoid sharing gym towels or equipment that touches your skin.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include foods rich in probiotics like yogurt to support a healthy immune system.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables for antioxidant support.
Limit sugary and processed foods, which may promote inflammation.
Stay well hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine does not usually affect your ability to work or drive. It is applied to the skin and rinsed off, so it should not cause drowsiness or impair your focus. If you experience skin irritation, you may feel uncomfortable, but this is usually mild.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop using this medicine if you develop a severe allergic reaction, severe skin irritation, or if your doctor advises you to stop. Do not stop using it early for a fungal infection without consulting your doctor, because the infection may return. If you have completed the recommended course and symptoms have cleared, you can stop unless your doctor advises ongoing occasional use.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this soap is generally safe when used as directed. However, using it over large areas for a long time may increase the risk of skin irritation or, rarely, absorption into the body. If you need to use it for more than four weeks, consult your doctor. Your doctor may monitor your skin and, if necessary, your liver function if you have other risk factors.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Selenium sulfide shampoo

Another antifungal option for dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.

Evidence: Well-established
Zinc pyrithione shampoo

A milder over-the-counter option for dandruff.

Evidence: Well-established
Ciclopirox olamine cream

A topical antifungal for various skin fungal infections.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. You can receive vaccines while using this soap.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C.

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless the label says so.

✅ DO

Keep the soap in its original wrapper or container.

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer it to an unmarked container.

✅ DO

Keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture.

❌ DON'T

Do not leave it in a damp soap dish for long periods.

✅ DO

Keep out of reach of children.

❌ DON'T

Do not use after the expiry date.

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this soap in its original packaging to avoid confusion. If you are flying, pack it in your checked luggage or in a clear plastic bag if it is a liquid or gel form. Keep a copy of your prescription or a note from your doctor if you are carrying it across borders. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you are changing time zones, continue using it as close to your usual schedule as possible. Do not leave it in a hot car or in direct sunlight.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 32-year-old man with dandruff and scalp itching
He had tried many regular shampoos without relief. His doctor recommended this medicated soap. He used it twice a week, leaving the lather on for two minutes before rinsing. After three weeks, his flaking and itching reduced significantly. He now uses it once a week to keep dandruff away.
💡 Lesson: Using the soap correctly and consistently can control dandruff effectively.
👤 A 45-year-old woman with light patches on her back
She noticed pale patches on her back that her doctor diagnosed as tinea versicolor. She was advised to use this soap daily for two weeks. The patches began to fade after ten days, and her skin felt less itchy. She completed the full course as advised.
💡 Lesson: Completing the full course of treatment helps clear the infection and reduces the chance of it coming back.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: You may notice less itching and flaking within a few days. For conditions like tinea versicolor, it may take 2 to 4 weeks of regular use to see full improvement.

Q: Can I use this soap on my face?

A: Only if your doctor advises it. The skin on the face is sensitive, and this soap can cause dryness or irritation. Avoid contact with the eyes.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: Very little is absorbed through the skin, so it is unlikely to harm the baby. However, consult your doctor before using it during pregnancy.

Q: What should I do if I miss a use?

A: Use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next use, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Do not use extra amounts.

Q: Can I stop using it once my symptoms improve?

A: Complete the full course recommended by your doctor, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the infection from returning.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I use this soap every day?
  • Will it dry out my skin?
  • Can I use it on my face?
  • How long should I use it for dandruff?
  • Is it safe for children?
  • Can I use it with other medicated shampoos?
  • Does it interact with my other medicines?
  • What if I miss a day of use?

🔄 Substitutes for ketovas soap

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This soap can cure any skin rash.
    Fact: It only works for fungal infections. Other rashes need different treatments.
  • Myth: Using more soap will make the infection go away faster.
    Fact: Using too much can irritate the skin. Use only as directed.
  • Myth: Once symptoms go away, you can stop using it immediately.
    Fact: Stopping too early may allow the infection to return. Complete the recommended course.
  • Myth: This soap is safe to use on the eyes.
    Fact: It should never be used in the eyes or on mucous membranes.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Ketoconazole 1% soap

Brand Alternatives

  • Dermastar 1% soap

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine (ketoconazole 1% soap)","class":"Azole antifungal","main_use":"Fungal skin infections, dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis","form":"Soap","notes":"Used on skin, rinsed off."},{"medicine":"Selenium sulfide shampoo","class":"Antifungal","main_use":"Dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis","form":"Shampoo","notes":"Used on scalp, rinsed off."},{"medicine":"Zinc pyrithione shampoo","class":"Antifungal","main_use":"Dandruff","form":"Shampoo","notes":"Mild, available over the counter."}]

😊 Was this information helpful?

Browse Medicines A-Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Back to Medicines Directory