Ketoconazole
- BP-S-6-Medicinal Chemistry III
- Mar 31
- 1 min read
Chemical Structure / Formula of Ketoconazole
Formula: C26H28Cl2N4O4
Structure: A imidazole antifungal with two chlorinated benzyl groups.

Mechanism of Action
Inhibits lanosterol 14α-demethylase, blocking ergosterol synthesis and disrupting fungal membrane integrity.
Uses
Topical and oral use for fungal infections:
Systemic fungal infections (Histoplasmosis, Blastomycosis, Candidiasis) (oral use).
Seborrheic dermatitis, tinea infections, dandruff (topical use).
Side Effects
Hepatotoxicity (black box warning for oral use).
Hormonal effects (gynecomastia, adrenal insufficiency: inhibits steroid synthesis).
GI upset, headache, skin rash.