Antifungal Medications Physicians Should Keep for Home Use

This educational guide is intended for licensed physicians and healthcare professionals considering personal medical preparedness.

What antifungal medications should physicians keep at home?

Physicians often choose to keep select antifungal medications available for personal and family preparedness. Common options include:

  • Ketoconazole shampoo – for seborrheic dermatitis and scalp fungal conditions
  • Ketoconazole topical cream – for localized cutaneous fungal infections
  • Fluconazole – for systemic fungal infections when appropriate
  • Topical azoles – for minor yeast or dermatologic conditions

Comparison of Common Antifungal Medications

Medication Primary Use Topical or Oral Why Physicians Keep It
Ketoconazole Shampoo Seborrheic dermatitis, scalp fungal infections Topical Common outpatient dermatologic condition
Ketoconazole Cream Tinea corporis, cutaneous fungal infections Topical Localized fungal treatment
Fluconazole Candidiasis, systemic fungal infections Oral Broader antifungal coverage

Common Clinical Scenarios

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Ketoconazole shampoo is commonly used for inflammatory scalp conditions associated with fungal overgrowth.

Tinea Corporis

Topical ketoconazole cream may be appropriate for localized dermatophyte infections.

Cutaneous Candidiasis

Depending on severity, topical or oral antifungals may be considered.

Why Physicians May Keep Antifungal Medications Available

  • Off-shift access to common treatments
  • Travel preparedness
  • Rural or remote settings
  • Family medical preparedness

Available Antifungal Products

View Ketoconazole Shampoo

View Ketoconazole Cream

View Fluconazole

Frequently Asked Questions

Can physicians obtain antifungal medications for personal preparedness?

Physicians may choose to obtain certain medications for personal preparedness in accordance with applicable regulations and prescribing guidelines.

When is ketoconazole shampoo preferred over cream?

Shampoo formulations are typically used for scalp and hair-bearing areas, while creams are used for localized skin infections.

What is the difference between ketoconazole and fluconazole?

Ketoconazole is commonly topical, while fluconazole is an oral systemic antifungal.