Dry, itchy scalp? White flakes appearing on the shoulders of your shirt? You might have the common condition of dandruff.
Dandruff is often caused by a fungal skin infection on the scalp. The infection causes itchiness, dryness, and the characteristic “flakes” associated with dandruff. Luckily, dandruff is highly treatable with both over-the-counter and prescription methods.
Medicated shampoos like ciclopirox and ketoconazole are often the first line of defense in treating dandruff. Compare ciclopirox (Loprox®) vs. ketoconazole (Nizoral®) to determine the better fit for your dandruff treatment.
What is ciclopirox shampoo?
Ciclopirox shampoo1 is a medicated shampoo with topical antifungal drugs. It is most often used to treat the fungal infection, seborrheic dermatitis, that causes dandruff, itching, and flaking of the scalp skin. Clinical trials have shown shampoos with ciclopirox to be very effective in treating scalp seborrheic dermatitis.2
The most popular brand name of ciclopirox shampoo is Loprox®.
What is ketoconazole shampoo?
Ketoconazole shampoo3 is a medicated shampoo used to treat dandruff and the symptoms of itching, dryness, and flaking. It is part of a group of azole antifungals that stop fungus growth on the skin. Studies have shown ketoconazole to be significantly effective at treating dandruff in participants and better tolerated than many over-the-counter options.4
The most popular brand name of ketoconazole shampoo is Nizoral®.
What’s the difference between ciclopirox and ketoconazole shampoo?
Ciclopirox and ketoconazole are similar medicated shampoos. Both are antifungals that work by preventing the growth of common fungal skin infections. Also, both medications are topically applied through a lathering shampoo.
There are a few differences between ciclopirox and ketoconazole; for example, ketoconazole is available over-the-counter, while ciclopirox is not.
Ciclopirox vs. Ketoconazole Comparison Chart
What are common side effects?
Both ciclopirox and ketoconazole shampoos have minimal side effects for users. Because both are in topical shampoo forms, the side effects do not affect any internal organs or digestive issues that can come with oral medication.
Ciclopirox (Loprox®) shampoo side effects
Common side effects of ciclopirox shampoo7 include:
Burning
Itching
Redness
Ketoconazole (Nizoral®) shampoo side effects
Common side effects of ketoconazole shampoo8 include:
Mild skin irritation
Itching
Redness
Dry skin
Rash
FDA-Approved Prescription Treatment Options for Dandruff
Sometimes over-the-counter just won't cut it. Tough dandruff may need to be treated with a prescription. Tell-tale signs of dandruff include scaly, itchy or flaky scalp, but our licensed medical providers can help so you can be on your way to flake-free, fresh hair soon.
Get StartedHow can I get ciclopirox or ketoconazole shampoo? Is it available over the counter?
Finding medicated shampoo to treat dandruff is a relatively straightforward process. Both are available in generic versions and online, but only one is available over-the-counter.
You must acquire a prescription from a licensed medical professional to get ciclopirox shampoo. If you prefer not to visit your doctor’s office, you can get ciclopirox prescribed online and shipped directly to you.
Ketoconazole shampoo is available in prescription strength or an over-the-counter (OTC) version. Most common cases of dandruff can be treated with the OTC ketoconazole shampoo. For severe or medication-resistant cases of scalp fungal infections, a doctor may prescribe a stronger version of ketoconazole shampoo.
How RedBox Rx can help
RedBox Rx makes receiving medicated shampoo for dandruff easy and affordable.
Benefits of RedBox Rx include:
$10 online consultation with a U.S. licensed medical provider
Prescription dandruff shampoo starting at $13/month
No insurance required. FSA and HSA eligible.
FREE shipping directly to you. One-time treatment and quarterly subscriptions available.
Get started treating your dandruff today with RedBox Rx.
